30.1.11

The History of Victorian Jewelry

The Victorian era started in 1837 with the coronation of the young Queen Victoria. It ended with her death at the age of 82, in 1901. Queen Victoria loved jewelry and her passion and preferences fueled the talents of the jewelry trade in London.


At the beginning of the 1800's the intaglio or cameo gained in popularity. Conch shell cameos were carved by local artisans along the Italian coast. Soon they were being carved from highly coveted lava stone, glass, and cast metal.


During the industrial revolution Queen Victoria had a series of charms made. She would give the charms to friends and family every New Year. Thus began the popularity of the charm bracelet and necklace.


In 1861, Prince Albert died, and Queen Victoria went into permanent mourning. She wore black clothing and black jewelry for the remainder of her life. Jewelry previously offered in colorful gems, glass and metal, were now produced in black jet. It was called mourning jewelry.


images via victoriana magazine

27.1.11

And the bride wore black?

Gone are the days where the bride has only one choice in wedding attire...long & white! Young brides are choosing to mix it up a bit by wearing shorter hemlines, pink wedding gowns, and even BLACK! I must say, the black wedding gowns are fabulous!





Some brides are also forgoing the traditional diamond and choosing a ring with a beautiful colored sapphire or ruby.  During the Victorian era when diamonds were scarce, and the Art Deco era was fashionable, many women wore rings with colored stones.  A resurgence in antique wedding attire, such as rings and gowns has reintroduced the idea of alternative precious gemstones.  Take a look at these beautiful options...




images via coco + kelley
 
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