Antique jewelry is more than adornment. It reflects the cultural, social and historical context in which it was made, and understanding the history of popular antique pieces adds depth to any collection.
1. Mourning Jewelry
Mourning jewelry, popular during the Victorian era, was worn to honor loved ones who had died. These pieces often used black materials such as jet or onyx, and sometimes hair from the person who had died, woven into the design. Mourning jewelry is a poignant reminder of the customs and emotions of the past.
2. Cameos
Cameos have been treasured for centuries, particularly during the Georgian and Victorian periods. Carved from shell or hardstone, often with profiles or scenes from mythology, they were set in brooches, rings and pendants and are prized for their craftsmanship and classical beauty.
3. Lockets
Lockets have been a symbol of love and remembrance for centuries. Worn close to the heart, these small hinged pendants held portraits, locks of hair and other mementos. They were especially popular during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Read more in our guide to antique lockets.
4. Poison Rings
Poison rings have a hidden compartment beneath a stone or decorative lid. They were used to carry perfume, keepsakes or relics, and legend has it, poison. Rings of this kind date back to ancient times and were particularly popular during the Renaissance.
5. Signet Rings
Signet rings, engraved with a family crest or personal emblem, were used to seal documents in wax. A symbol of authority and identity with a history reaching back to ancient Egypt, they remain highly regarded today. Our own Ada signet rings continue the tradition with hand engraving.
The history behind antique jewelry adds a rich layer of meaning to a collection. Whether it is the somber beauty of mourning jewelry, the craftsmanship of a cameo or the mystery of a poison ring, each piece tells a story.