Jewelry History
Timeless Elegance: A Journey Through the Eras of Jewelry Styles
Published: Mar 18, 2025
Timeless Elegance: A Journey Through the Eras of Jewelry Styles
Jewelry has long been a reflection of history, culture, and personal expression. Each era of jewelry design carries its own unique charm, shaped by societal influences and artistic movements. At Hopman Jewelers, we celebrate the rich history of jewelry by offering timeless designs inspired by the past. Join us as we explore the defining characteristics of different jewelry eras and the beauty they bring to modern collections.
Victorian Era (1837-1901)
Named after Queen Victoria, this era is divided into three periods: the Romantic, Grand, and Aesthetic periods. Early Victorian jewelry featured nature-inspired motifs such as flowers, leaves, and serpents, often crafted in yellow gold and adorned with colorful gemstones. Mourning jewelry, with black jet and onyx, became popular during the later part of this era following the death of Prince Albert.
Art Nouveau (1890-1910)
Art Nouveau jewelry is known for its flowing, organic lines and delicate craftsmanship. Inspired by nature and fantasy, this era featured ethereal designs with motifs of flowers, butterflies, and feminine figures. Enamel work, opals, and pearls were frequently used to create these intricate, dreamlike pieces.
Edwardian Era (1901-1915)
Jewelry of the Edwardian era exuded elegance and refinement. Platinum became the metal of choice, allowing for intricate lace-like filigree work. Diamonds, pearls, and delicate garland motifs were prominent, embodying the grace and sophistication of the time.
Art Deco (1920-1945)
A stark contrast to the softness of earlier styles, Art Deco jewelry embraced geometric shapes, bold colors, and symmetry. Influenced by the modern age and global travel, designs incorporated materials like jade, onyx, and coral. The strong, streamlined aesthetic of this era remains one of the most enduring and sought-after jewelry styles today.
Retro (1939-1950)
The Retro era was defined by bold, glamorous designs, often featuring large, colorful gemstones set in rose or yellow gold. Influenced by Hollywood’s golden age, jewelry from this period showcased oversized, dramatic pieces, including cocktail rings, tank bracelets, and brooches.
Mid-Century & Modern (1950-1970)
The mid-century era introduced more minimalist, elegant designs, often featuring diamonds in sleek platinum or white gold settings. By the 1970s, jewelry became more eclectic, incorporating natural materials and playful, bohemian styles. Today, modern jewelry blends vintage influences with contemporary innovation, offering a diverse array of styles to suit every taste.
At Hopman Jewelers, we honor the beauty of every era by curating exquisite pieces that transcend time. Whether you’re drawn to the intricate elegance of Edwardian filigree or the bold sophistication of Art Deco, we invite you to explore our collection and find a piece that tells your story.
Jewelry has long been a reflection of history, culture, and personal expression. Each era of jewelry design carries its own unique charm, shaped by societal influences and artistic movements. At Hopman Jewelers, we celebrate the rich history of jewelry by offering timeless designs inspired by the past. Join us as we explore the defining characteristics of different jewelry eras and the beauty they bring to modern collections.
Victorian Era (1837-1901)
Named after Queen Victoria, this era is divided into three periods: the Romantic, Grand, and Aesthetic periods. Early Victorian jewelry featured nature-inspired motifs such as flowers, leaves, and serpents, often crafted in yellow gold and adorned with colorful gemstones. Mourning jewelry, with black jet and onyx, became popular during the later part of this era following the death of Prince Albert.
Art Nouveau (1890-1910)
Art Nouveau jewelry is known for its flowing, organic lines and delicate craftsmanship. Inspired by nature and fantasy, this era featured ethereal designs with motifs of flowers, butterflies, and feminine figures. Enamel work, opals, and pearls were frequently used to create these intricate, dreamlike pieces.
Edwardian Era (1901-1915)
Jewelry of the Edwardian era exuded elegance and refinement. Platinum became the metal of choice, allowing for intricate lace-like filigree work. Diamonds, pearls, and delicate garland motifs were prominent, embodying the grace and sophistication of the time.
Art Deco (1920-1945)
A stark contrast to the softness of earlier styles, Art Deco jewelry embraced geometric shapes, bold colors, and symmetry. Influenced by the modern age and global travel, designs incorporated materials like jade, onyx, and coral. The strong, streamlined aesthetic of this era remains one of the most enduring and sought-after jewelry styles today.
Retro (1939-1950)
The Retro era was defined by bold, glamorous designs, often featuring large, colorful gemstones set in rose or yellow gold. Influenced by Hollywood’s golden age, jewelry from this period showcased oversized, dramatic pieces, including cocktail rings, tank bracelets, and brooches.
Mid-Century & Modern (1950-1970)
The mid-century era introduced more minimalist, elegant designs, often featuring diamonds in sleek platinum or white gold settings. By the 1970s, jewelry became more eclectic, incorporating natural materials and playful, bohemian styles. Today, modern jewelry blends vintage influences with contemporary innovation, offering a diverse array of styles to suit every taste.
At Hopman Jewelers, we honor the beauty of every era by curating exquisite pieces that transcend time. Whether you’re drawn to the intricate elegance of Edwardian filigree or the bold sophistication of Art Deco, we invite you to explore our collection and find a piece that tells your story.