Estate & Vintage Edwardian Jewelry

Vintage Edwardian Jewelry

If your style is all about unforgettable details, pieces that move with you, and unapologetic decadence, vintage Edwardian jewelry is perfect for your collection. This type of jewelry came into its own during a time when craftsmanship was of the utmost importance, which is why so many antique Edwardian pieces have painstaking detail work. Look for carefully added metal beads that create a decorative milgrain effect or delicate filigree details that produce a lacy, gentle look.

Edwardian jewelry was extremely popular among royals and those in the higher classes of society during the reign of Edward VII in England. This was the first time artisans started creating platinum jewelry, so you'll find platinum diamond pieces among gold and silver jewelry. Another trend that emerged during the Edwardian era is the diamond engagement ring. Many engagement rings produced between 1901 and 1915 feature large diamonds, handcrafted metal, exquisite diamond details around the center stones, and intricate bands.

Several features set this type of jewelry apart from pieces produced in other eras, such as the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods. Much of the jewelry in Edwardian era estate collections evokes femininity and fluidity in its movement. Bracelets, necklaces, and earrings often have swinging or dangling accents that give the jewelry a life of its own.

Pearls and gemstones, often flanked by diamond accents, are part of many Edwardian statement pieces. Look for eye‑catching gems, including sapphire and amethyst, and more gentle stones like the opal. In addition to many brilliantly cut jewels, you will also encounter cabochon gems—rocks polished until they are round and smooth—on brooches and other unique designs.

Those interested in unmistakably Edwardian pieces can look into some of the signature jewelry from that time. Cameos played a significant role in Edwardian jewelry, as did large, pronounced rings that stretched vertically down a wearer's finger and served as statement pieces. This era also brought about the age of the tiara, adorned with hundreds of tiny diamonds and gemstones. From extravagant gold pins to ornate drop necklaces, Edwardian jewelry shows off the elaborate style of its time.