About Georgian jewelry
Georgian jewelry was made during the reigns of the four King Georges of Britain, from 1714 to 1837. It's among the rarest antique jewelry you can find today. Every piece was made entirely by hand, and much of it was later broken up, remodeled or melted down, so surviving pieces are scarce.
What to look for
Georgian jewelers set diamonds in silver to show off their whiteness, often on a gold back, long before platinum was used. Stones were frequently set in closed backs, sometimes with a colored foil behind them to heighten their sparkle. Rose cut and early old mine cut diamonds are typical, alongside colored gemstones and fine paste, a high-quality glass that was prized in its own right.
Popular designs included rivière necklaces, cluster rings, mourning jewelry and sentimental pieces such as lover's eye miniatures and hair jewelry.
Questions
Why is Georgian jewelry so rare?
Very little was made compared with later periods, and much of what was made was remodeled into newer styles or melted down for its metal and stones.
How should I care for Georgian jewelry?
Never soak a closed-back setting, as water can damage the foil behind the stones. Wipe pieces gently with a soft cloth. Read our guide to cleaning antique jewelry safely.
Is Georgian jewelry hallmarked?
Not always. Small items and jewelry were often exempt from hallmarking at the time, so many genuine Georgian pieces are unmarked. We test and describe every piece.