Edwardian (1901 – 1915)

The Edwardian era, named after British King Edward VII who reigned from 1901 to 1915, is known for its feminine, flowing designs and floral motifs in jewellery.

This era saw a great demand for lavish and intricate pieces, which became popular among high society due to the influence of the extravagant King. Ethereal and delicate handcrafted jewellery made with valuable materials such as platinum and diamonds were in fashion, with traditional motifs such as bows, garlands, ribbons, and lace.

 Platinum was extensively used to create millegrained and diamond-encrusted lace jewellery. Edwardian jewellery featured a combination of several diamond cuts, as new gemstone cuts were introduced, but pearls were the real status symbol, and the most valuable gemstone of the time. Invisible settings and lace-like filigree settings were popular, and millegrain technique added a border of delicate balls and ridges around gemstones or designs.

Necklaces gained importance with evolving necklines, and popular styles included colliers de chien and long pearl chains.

Edwardian rings were ornate and made of platinum and diamonds, and bracelets were light and delicate with flowery designs. When World War I broke out in 1914, the era's extravagant jewellery was eclipsed by the war effort.