Through the Ages: A Glittering Journey of Jewellery Design Time Periods
- Alex
- Mar 5, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 22, 2024
Jewellery design is an art form that has evolved through the ages, reflecting the cultural, social, and artistic trends of different time periods. From ancient civilisations to modern-day innovations, each era has left its unique imprint on the world of jewellery.
Let's take a sparkling journey through the various jewellery design time periods that have shaped the dazzling landscape of adornment.

Victorian Values: 1837 - 1901
- Romanticism and Sentimentality: Jewellery became a means of expressing emotions, with lockets, mourning jewellery, and intricate symbolism taking center stage. These sentiments were expressed as rings, necklaces and brooches.
- Queen Victoria's Influence: The Queen's personal tastes greatly impacted jewellery trends, including the popularisation of serpent motifs and the use of mourning stones like jet and onyx.
Art Nouveau Elegance: 1890 - 1910
- Organic Inspiration: Jewellery designs drew inspiration from nature, featuring flowing lines, floral motifs, and delicate enamelling.
- Innovative Materials: Art Nouveau jewellers explored new materials like glass, ivory, and plique-à-jour enamel to create unique, avant-garde pieces.
Art Deco Glamour: 1920 - 1939
- Geometric Symmetry: Bold lines, geometric shapes, and a fascination with the exotic influenced Art Deco jewellery. Rings were popular and made in new and popular white metals like platinum and white gold.
- Jazz Age Elegance: The Roaring Twenties brought a sense of liberation and luxury, reflected in the use of diamonds, platinum, and vibrant coloured gemstones.
Mid-Century Modern Minimalism: 1940s - 1970s
- Streamlined Simplicity: Post-war designs embraced clean lines, minimalism, and innovative use of materials like stainless steel and acrylic.
- Hollywood Influence: Celebrities and Hollywood glamour played a significant role in shaping the styles of this era, with iconic pieces gaining popularity.
Contemporary Creativity: 1980s - Present
- Eclectic Trends: The modern era sees a mix of styles, with designers experimenting with a wide range of materials, unconventional shapes, and innovative techniques.
- Sustainable and Ethical Practices: There is a growing emphasis on ethical sourcing of materials and sustainable practices, reflecting changing societal values. Materials like recycled gold and lab grown diamonds continue to grow in popularity.

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