About Georgian Jewelry
The Georgian period, named after the reigns of the four King Georges of England (1714-1830), is a dynamic and evolving era for jewelry design. Early Georgian jewelry often reflected the Baroque and Rococo styles, with elaborate designs and intricate details. As the period progressed, the influence of Neoclassicism became more pronounced, with motifs inspired by ancient Greece and Rome becoming popular.
Jewelry from this time was typically handcrafted, as mass production techniques had not yet been developed. This means that each piece from the Georgian era is unique, with variations that reflect the individual taste of the jeweler.
Georgian jewelers employed a variety of materials. Diamonds were often set in silver, as it was believed to enhance their sparkle, while colored gemstones were typically set in gold. The use of paste, a type of leaded glass, was also common for simulating the appearance of precious stones.
Designs were rich and varied, as cultural influences of the time came from symbolism and nature. For example, anchors representing hope or snakes symbolizing eternity. Cameos and intaglios, with carved gemstones or shells, were highly prized. Girandole earrings featuring a central element with three dangling components came from the Georgian era.
Jewelry in that time was often designed for specific occasions. For instance, mourning jewelry was crafted to commemorate loved ones, featuring somber designs and materials like jet or black enamel. Such gifts as sentimental jewelry, with lover’s eye miniatures or lockets containing hair, were widely popular.
We love Georgian jewelry due to its rarity and the craftsmanship it represents. Its designs provide a glimpse into the fashion and culture of 18th and early 19th-century Europe.
About Pearl Jewelry
Pearls have a special place in jewelry design. These organic gems have always been associated with a classy, refined style. Today wearing pearls means having a great taste and the ability to see its beauty.
Saltwater pearl jewelry using pearls produced by a saltwater mollusk. It can produce one pearl at a time, while freshwater oysters are able to make up to 30 pearls at once. That fact plus a lustrous appearance along with a rounder shape make this type of pearl more expensive compared to freshwater. The most popular saltwater pearls are Akoya, Tahitian and South Sea pearls.
Freshwater pearls are very durable as they have a thicker nacre, compared to their saline living relatives. This type of pearl can be white, pink, and even peach color.
Mother-of-pearl, also known as nacre, is a substance that forms the inner layer of certain mollusk shells. The material gets its name from its lustrous, pearly appearance. The iridescence of the mother of pearl results from the way light interacts with the layers of crystals within the material. One of the most popular uses of mother-of-pearl in jewelry is as an inlay or overlay in various settings. The smooth and lustrous surface of MOP is frequently used to complement other gemstones or materials.
From a formal event through a glamorous cocktail night to a day at work, pearls can be your jewels of choice every time you need to amp up your style.
