The History of Flowers in Jewelry
Floral estate jewelry has a long history. It is divided into two significant periods: the heyday of classic jewelry and the rise of contemporary floral jewelry. Today, floral jewelry takes inspiration from classic eras, incorporating progressive and contemporary flares.
As the name suggests, classic jewelry began in the late Georgian era (1715-1835). During this period, flowers were a fad in society. For this reason, rings adopted floral designs. The Georgian era was a thriving period for romance. Romantic style adorned architecture, people's garments, past-time activities, and ideals. With romance in the air, floral jewelry grew a charming reputation among lovers and married couples. Hence, a floral ring, crafted in gold or silver, was seen as a prelude, expression, and token of love. Because technology was not yet sophisticated, most floral rings appeared unrefined and not very realistic.
It was only during the Victorian era (1835-1900) that floral jewelry became intricate. This period showcased romantic, bold, and feminine designs paired with exquisite craftsmanship. Floral jewelry expanded to foliage and floral patterns and designs came with deeper meanings, conveying the language of love. They even relayed secret messages between lovers. A lover who wishes to express adoration needs only to give his partner a sunflower ring. Meanwhile, a daisy meant innocence, tulips were a declaration of true love, and a violet conveyed loyalty and devotion.
The three primary periods of the Victorian era provide a more nuanced development of floral jewelry. The styles of jewelry during this time were significantly influenced by the Queen. For example, the Middle Victorian era was a testament to what they called 'mourning jewelry.' This became popular in society after the Queen wore jewelry while grieving the death of her husband, Prince Albert, in 1861. As a result, flowers adopted a new meaning—change. The ascent of advanced technology and manufacturing paved the way for more sophisticated designs where precious metals and diamond cuts gained a huge following. Floral jewelry reached important innovation peaks throughout the early to late Victorian era.
Art Nouveau (1880-1910) jewelry took societies by storm at the turn of the century. This era was characterized by some of the greatest artists in the industry. They did not allow advanced technology to transform how floral jewelry was crafted and remained loyal to hand fabricating. Pieces were light and soft and maintained their famed romantic touch. The designs were feminine and playful, and Japanese art influenced their creation. Silver and gold were present in the jewelry, as were gemstones like opal, sapphire, moonstone, citrine, amber, and pearl. Enameling techniques and unique settings were incorporated. And for the first time, new flowers were used in rings and pendants, such as water lilies, poppies, and fuchsias.
The demise of Queen Victoria gave rise to Edwardian jewelry (1901-1915) in the United Kingdom of Great Britain. It existed alongside Art Nouveau but boasted a different and unique take on floral jewelry. While similarly light and graceful, they created one thing other eras failed to do—platinum floral jewelry. Designs during this period included laurel wreaths and floral garlands, two of the most popular styles among patrons during this era.
Floral jewelry enjoyed a new peak during the Art Deco era (1915-1935). Modern-day jewelry is heavily inspired by this period. Art Deco jewelry included fun and forward-thinking styles—the reason people revered it at the time. Designs were bold, colorful, and symmetrical. They strayed away from feminine touches. The result was more neutral pieces with bright colors, futuristic accents, and geometric forms. Lotus blossom was the most popular floral design from this time.
By aggrandizing designs, the Retro era (1935-1950) moved in a different direction and gave the world large rings with articulated petals and leaves. These designs were purposefully unrealistic compared to their predecessors. Since 1950, the designs have become more feminine, open, airy, and textural. This era, which encompasses the present day, uses gemstones to highlight the floral designs. In fact, sapphire and ruby in pear or marquise cuts are popular styles.
The Significance of Floral Jewelry
How did floral jewelry stay relevant all these years?
The answer is romance. As long as romance is alive in society, floral jewelry will continue to grab the attention of jewelry wearers. In fact, couples are the primary customers of floral jewelry.
Giving someone a floral ring or necklace demonstrates the person's adoration and love. Unlike a flower bouquet, they last longer. Hence, people get the value of their purchase.
Floral jewelry is commonly used at weddings. A bride selects the jewelry of her choice. Preparation typically happens months before they walk down the aisle. She keenly picked an exceptional piece that will complement and enhance her overall wedding style throughout the process.
But it is not exclusive to brides. Flower girls and bride's maids can also decorate their look with similar pieces. Depending upon the wedding motif, they often use a cute headpiece, eye-catching brooch, memorable necklace, or exquisite bracelet.
Floral jewelry is also used in engagement pieces. A man who plans to pop the question to his lover may propose with a floral-inspired ring. Floral rings are not only attractive pieces but are also meaningful because of the symbolism they possess. It would sweep any girl off her feet!
Indian weddings place greater importance on floral jewelry. Their tradition says flowers symbolize love, happiness, and beauty. Shringar is the concept of incorporating flowers as accessories to the wedding. This is why they celebrate the union of two hearts with life, lights, love, and color. Moreover, different kinds of flowers are used in their wedding customs, as they believe that flowers hold spiritual and auspicious meanings. They could be used for decoration, garlands, or bridal accessories. Since weddings are promising acts, they commemorate it by offering flowers to their goddesses.
Today's modern urban brides in India are veering away from the common silver and gold jewelry in exchange for natural floral jewelry. For this reason, a new floral wave has been birthed. Ceremonies like Haldi and Mehendi are moving towards natural and artificial floral jewelry. In this way, Indians encase their surroundings with peace, purity, and calmness as one girl becomes a blooming bride.
Apart from weddings and engagements, flowers and jewelry are also used as welcoming gestures to prominent figures such as presidents, celebrities, and distinguished guests. Anyone can do the same to a friend, family member, colleague, or acquaintance they appreciate. At festivals, flowers are abundant, as is floral jewelry.
Floral Jewelry Meaning
Choosing the right floral jewelry is an essential and enjoyable experience. Many considerations need to be taken into account, such as style, size, price, occasion, and meaning. Here are some of the flowers and their corresponding symbolism to help anyone choose the perfect fit.
- Tulips and roses are used to declare one's love to another.
- For the purity and innocence of the soul, lilies are ideal.
- Faith and everlasting love are represented by violets and orange blossoms, respectively.
- Of course, forget-me-nots are reserved exclusively for remembrance.
- Love is sweeter the second time around. That is why lily of the valley exists to help any couple find their way back into love; this beautiful bloom is often used for second marriages.
- Thinking about a crush or a future spouse? Pansies come in handy.
- Meanwhile, fidelity is symbolized by ivy.
- Good luck and adoration by sunflowers.
- Hope by daisies.
- Bands of love by honeysuckles.
- Sweet love by jasmine.
- The joy of youth by lilacs.
- Enlightenment by lotus.
- Morning glories mean pure affection.
- Gardens of floral jewelry continue to bloom across the world. Shop our extensive collection of floral jewelry that is right for any occasion.
