If we explore jewelry through the lens of history, we can break down many of the designs into definitive styles influenced by prevailing cultural factors, aesthetics and techniques from their respective time periods. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most influential and recognizable jewelry styles.
Medieval: From the 5th to the 15th centuries, Medieval jewelry was characterized by its heavy, elaborate design, with motifs that often had religious or symbolic significance, such as crosses, lions, and religious figures. The jewelry was typically made of precious metals like gold, silver, and precious gemstones. Techniques used during this time period included enameling and filigree work.
Byzantine: Byzantine jewelry, which emerged during the Byzantine Empire (circa 330-1453), was known for its rich, ornate design and the use of precious metals like gold, silver, and gemstones. The style was heavily influenced by Byzantine art and architecture and often featured motifs such as crosses, religious figures, and geometric patterns. Jewelry during this time was often made using techniques such as granulation and cloisonné.
Georgian: Georgian jewelry was popular during the reign of four King Georges of England (1714-1830) and was characterized by its delicate and refined design. The jewelry typically featured gold, silver, and pearls and incorporated techniques such as engraving and enameling. The Georgian period was known for the use of smaller, more delicate gemstones and for the creation of sentimental and romantic jewelry.
Baroque: Baroque jewelry, which emerged during the Baroque period (1600s-1750s), was known for its elaborate and ornate design. The jewelry was typically made of precious metals like gold, silver, and gemstones, and often featured motifs like scrolling vines, cherubs, and religious figures. The use of chunky gemstones and intricate filigree work was common during the Baroque period.
Renaissance: Renaissance jewelry, which emerged during the Renaissance (14th-17th centuries), was characterized by its detailed and intricate design, influenced by Renaissance art and architecture. The jewelry often incorporated classical figures, allegorical symbols, and religious themes and was made of precious metals like gold, silver, and gemstones. Techniques used included enameling, engraving, and the use of intricate settings to showcase gemstones.
Victorian: Victorian jewelry was popular during the reign of Queen Victoria of England (1837-1901) and was characterized by its ornate and delicate design. The jewelry often featured romantic motifs like hearts and flowers and was made of materials like gold, silver, and pearls, with intricate engravings and filigree work. The Victorian period was also known for the popularity of sentimental lockets, often containing photos or mementos of loved ones.
Edwardian: Edwardian jewelry was popular during the reign of King Edward VII of England (1901-1910) and was characterized by its delicate and refined design. The jewelry often featured romantic motifs like flowers, bows, and lace and was made of precious metals like platinum and diamonds, with intricate filigree work. The Edwardian period saw a shift towards lighter, more dainty jewelry styles, as well as the use of new techniques and materials like platinum.
Art Nouveau: Art Nouveau was a style of jewelry that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and was known for its organic, flowing lines and nature-inspired motifs like flowers, leaves, and vines. The jewelry was often made of materials like gold, silver, and enamel and incorporated techniques like engraving and enameling. This style emphasized a departure from the ornate and busy designs of previous periods and instead celebrated natural forms and lines.
Art Deco: Art Deco was a popular style of jewelry that emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by geometric shapes, bold colors, and intricate designs. The jewelry was often made of precious gemstones like diamonds and emeralds, as well as metals like gold and platinum. This style was heavily influenced by the sleek lines and geometric shapes of the Art Deco movement in architecture and design and was characterized by a mix of traditional and modern elements.
Retro: Retro jewelry is a style that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by its bold designs, bright colors, and playful motifs. This style was influenced by the Art Deco and Art Nouveau movements, as well as World War II, and was made with materials like Bakelite, plastic, and gold-plated metal. Retro jewelry often features chunky, geometric shapes and bold colors, making it a popular style for statement pieces.
Modern: Modern jewelry refers to styles that have emerged in the 20th and 21st centuries and is characterized by its minimalist, sleek, and streamlined design. This style often features simple geometric shapes and clean lines, and may be made with contemporary materials like stainless steel, titanium, and plastic. Modern jewelry is often designed for a more understated look and is favored for its simplicity and versatility.
Contemporary: Contemporary jewelry can be thought of as a continuation of modern jewelry, with a focus on innovation and experimentation. These designs often push the boundaries of traditional jewelry making, and can incorporate a wide range of materials and techniques. Contemporary jewelry can be simple or complex, traditional or avant-garde, and can be made from a variety of materials such as precious metals, gemstones, and even found objects.
