Vintage

The term vintage is mainly associated with the retro clothing revival (1920 to 1980s) but has more recently also expanded to jewellery designs. Vintage can either be a reproduction of an original item or designed in the style of something that existed or it can be the actual genuine item. Our Vintage engagement ring collection draws inspiration from older styles of jewellery making, which is more ornamental and makes use of smaller decorative diamonds, inspired by Art Deco, Edwardian and Victorian jewellery designs.

Victorian

The Victorian period is identified by the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901). Jewellery designs were influenced by treasures discovered in Egypt, Greece and Asia but also by the designs used in ancient Rome, medieval Europe and 18th century France. A good example of Victorian reproduction jewellery is the engagement ring of Queen Victoria, a gold snake coiling about itself, which is an ancient Roman symbol of eternal love.

Antique

Antique style rings (before 1920) have an influence on today's fashion. Their influence can be seen in jewellery styles first created in the Art Deco, Edwardian or Victorian periods. It can also be found in today's modern designs, many of which are inspired, and even reproduced on the request of discerning jewellery buyers. Antique style engagement rings were both elegant and delicate, made with great care and attention to detail.

Estate

The term Estate jewellery describes the different eras of jewellery design:

• Georgian jewellery (1714-1837), Early Victorian romantic jewellery (1837-1850)
• Mid-Victorian grand jewellery (1860-1880), Late Victorian aesthetic jewellery (1885-1900)
• Arts and crafts jewellery (1894-1923), Art Nouveau jewellery (1895-1915)
• Edwardian jewellery (1901-1910), Art Deco jewellery (1920-1935) and Retro jewellery (1940s)

Art Deco

The era of Art Deco was characterised by the 1920s and 1930s and was known as one of the most creative periods for jewellery design. Engagement rings and jewellery in art deco style can be identified through its geometric patterns such as clear cut, sharp lines, bright colours and bold shapes as well as being influenced by African, Egyptian and Japanese themes.

Edwardian

The Edwardian epoque (1901-1910) is indentified with Edward VII who became king in 1901 and lead the nation to become both prosperous and productive in almost all fields. Jewellery manufacture and design became very important in this period and platinum was one of the favourite metals used for diamond rings for the rich and wealthy. The Edwardian era jewellery style manifested itself through rich and extravagant designs.