Edwardian

Edwardian jewellery refers to jewellery made during the reign of King Edward VII, from 1901 to 1910. The period was relatively short but is recognised for its elegant, refined designs and a lighter, more delicate style than much of the preceding Victorian era.

Edwardian jewellery was strongly influenced by the Belle Époque and the fashions of Paris. Platinum became increasingly important because its strength allowed jewellers to create very fine, intricate settings and openwork designs. Diamonds and pearls were particularly popular, often arranged in delicate garlands, bows, ribbons, flowers and scrolls. Sapphires, emeralds and other coloured gemstones were also used.

A defining characteristic of Edwardian jewellery is its fine platinum and millegrain work. Small beads of metal were used along the edges of settings to create a delicate, almost lace-like appearance. Diamonds were generally old mine cut, old European cut or other hand-cut forms, reflecting the cutting styles of the period.

Edwardian jewels were often designed to appear light and airy, with open settings and intricate pierced metalwork. Although the period officially ended with Edward VII’s death in 1910, many of its design characteristics continued into the early 1910s and overlap with the jewellery of the early Art Deco period.

At Weldons, we select Edwardian jewellery for its elegance, craftsmanship, quality and historical character, with each piece individually assessed and described.

Period: 1901–1910
Typical materials: Platinum, gold, diamonds, pearls and coloured gemstones
Characteristic features: Platinum settings, millegrain detailing, fine openwork, garland and bow motifs, old-cut diamonds and delicate craftsmanship