This article is part of ISN's continuing education series for our valued customers.
The Victorian era, named after Queen Victoria who ruled the United Kingdom from 1837 to 1901, was a time of great change and innovation in many areas, including fashion, art, and jewelry. In terms of fashion and style, the Victorian era was characterized by the use of heavy fabrics, such as velvets and brocades, and a focus on formality and modesty. Women's clothing featured long, flowing skirts, high necklines, and sleeves that extended to the wrists, while men's clothing was more subdued, with dark suits and formal jackets being the norm.
Art during the Victorian era was heavily influenced by the Victorian obsession with the past and the desire to create a sense of national identity. Romanticism and Gothic Revival styles were popular, as were historical subjects and landscapes. Jewelry during this time was typically made of gold or silver and featured intricate designs, often inspired by nature or incorporating symbols of love and affection. Popular motifs included flowers, hearts, and animals, and many pieces featured diamonds, pearls, and other precious stones. The Victorian era was also a time of great technological advancement, and this was reflected in the use of new materials, such as synthetic gemstones and enamel, in jewelry design.
The Victorian era can be further divided into the early or Romantic period and the later or Grand period. The Romantic period was marked by an emphasis on emotion and individualism, and jewelry from this time was often highly sentimental and reflective of the love and affection of young couples. Gold was a popular choice for jewelers during this time, although the California Gold Rush of the mid-19th century helped to alleviate a gold shortage in Britain and made lower karat gold and gold plating more common. Brooches produced during the Romantic period often had extended pins and simple 'C' clasp fasteners, and gemstones were frequently set in claw-like prongs or collet settings. The Grand period, on the other hand, was characterized by a focus on grandeur and opulence, with a lavish and extravagant style that celebrated wealth and status. Jewelry from this time tended to be more imposing and ornate, incorporating darker gemstones and braided hair in their designs. Overall, the Victorian era was a time of great creativity and diversity in the world of fashion, art, and jewelry, with both the Romantic and Grand periods leaving a lasting impact on the cultural and aesthetic landscape of the time.
