Category: History

There is a lot of lore surrounding gemstones and their magical and symbolic properties, believed by ancient civilizations to offer protection from misfortune, illness, and sorrow. Throughout history, superstitions surrounding gems have proliferated, sometimes contradicting one another. Opal, for instance, was both feared for its association with bad luck and…

The Art Deco period (1920-1935) emerged as a response to the romance of Art Nouveau, favoring clean, angular shapes and bold colors. Influenced by Cubism, futurism, and ancient art styles, Art Deco celebrated progress and industrialization. Notable jewelry houses like Van Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany & Co., and Cartier emerged…

During the Edwardian period (1901-1909), arts and crafts boomed in Britain. The period was marked by opulence and leisure and embraced industrialization while favoring handcrafted artisan pieces over mass-produced jewelry. While pieces were still expensive and considered a luxury, the middle and working classes could buy simpler, more affordable versions,…

The Art Nouveau era (1890-1910), translated from French as “new art,” emerged as a response to the dominance of classical styles of the 19th century. It aimed to elevate decorative arts to the same level as fine arts, emphasizing respect and reverence. While the era’s name was taken from ​​the…

The Victorian Era (1837 – 1901) was a period of significant societal, industrial, and artistic transformation. Lasting over 60 years, it left a lasting impact on fashion, art, and culture that persists today. The Victorian Era saw the emergence of The Aesthetic Movement in response to the inhumane conditions of…

The Georgian Period (1714-1830) is marked by romanticism, economic prosperity, and excess, inspired by King George’s emphasis on appearance, art, and leisure. Designs from this period often included feminine, floral designs and sentimental touches, such as acrostic rings spelling out words with gemstones. Consistent with the maximalism of the period,…