At Henne Jewelers in Pittsburgh, we’re lucky to see pieces from every era come through our doors. Whether you’re shopping for a unique engagement ring, restoring a family heirloom, or simply curious about the past, exploring different jewelry periods is a fun and fascinating way to understand design history. Here’s a friendly guide to some of the most iconic styles from the 1700s to the present.
Georgian Period (1714–1837):
Romance by Candlelight
Step back into the elegance of the 1700s, where jewelry was made entirely by hand and meant to sparkle by candlelight. Georgian pieces often featured delicate floral designs, birds, ribbons, and bows. Foil backing was used behind gemstones to add shimmer. Because back then, sparkle meant luxury.
These pieces are rare to find today. So, when they do surface, they’re cherished for their craftsmanship and old-world charm.
Victorian Period (1837–1901):
Sentimental and Symbolic
Jewelry during Queen Victoria’s reign tells a deeply emotional story, often tied to love and mourning. Early Victorian styles were full of hearts, serpents (a symbol of eternal love), and lockets. After the death of Prince Albert, mourning jewelry became widespread — jet and onyx pieces with somber elegance.
As time went on, the styles shifted again to reflect lighter moods. Late Victorian jewelry brought back color and whimsy, with stars, moons, and floral details.
Art nouveau (1890–1915):
A Dreamy Escape
Art Nouveau jewelry feels like something from a fairytale. Flowing lines, enamel details, and nature-inspired motifs (like dragonflies, vines, and ethereal women) define this short but iconic era.
Stones like moonstone, opal, and amber replaced diamonds in many designs, shifting the focus from flash to artistry. These pieces are a beautiful expression of imagination, often prized by collectors today.
Arts & Crafts (c. 1880-1910):
Handmade with Hearts
Born as a response to the rise of machine-made goods, the Arts & Crafts movement championed handcrafted jewelry. These pieces often featured visible hammer marks, simple silhouettes, and natural stones in matte settings. Think turquoise, moonstone, and enamel set in silver rather than gold. This period celebrates the maker’s touch, and many Arts & Crafts pieces feel deeply personal and one-of-a-kind.
Edwardian Period (1901–1915):
lacy Elegance
With the arrival of the 20th century came a light, airy style defined by platinum and pearls. Edwardian jewelry embraced refined luxury, with intricate filigree that resembled lace. It was delicate but sophisticated, fit for the high society of the time. Thanks to platinum’s strength, jewelers could create fine, detailed designs that still hold up beautifully today.
Art Deco (1920–1935):
Bold and Geometric
If you love clean lines, symmetry, and a pop of color, Art Deco might be your style soulmate. Influenced by skyscrapers, jazz, and global cultures, Art Deco jewelry introduced vibrant combinations of diamonds with sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and onyx.
It’s no wonder these designs remain so popular. They’re timeless, eye-catching, and perfect for both collectors and everyday wearers.
Retro (1935-1950):
Glamour Takes the Stage
Big, bold, and unapologetically glamorous — Retro jewelry arrived during Hollywood’s golden age. With platinum in short supply due to the war, gold took center stage in dramatic, oversized designs. Think cocktail rings, chunky bracelets, and bright synthetic stones used to make a statement. These pieces were made to stand out, and they still do.
Mid-Century (1950s–1960s):
Diamonds Reign Supreme
Post-war optimism inspired sleek, modern designs — and a serious love for diamonds. This was the era of the iconic "Diamonds Are Forever" campaign, and it shows. Jewelry from this period leaned elegant and streamlined, often made in white gold or platinum. In the 1960s, yellow gold made a comeback with playful touches and mod influences.
Contemporary (1970s-today):
Style without Rules
Today’s jewelry world is more diverse than ever. From minimal gold chains to sculptural statement pieces, the modern era celebrates personal expression and experimentation. You'll find mixed metals, alternative gemstones, lab-grown diamonds, and plenty of one-of-a-kind designs.
Best of all, sustainability and repurposing are now part of the conversation. These are two things we’re especially passionate about here at Henne.
Explore the Eras with Henne Jewelers
Whether you're drawn to the romance of Georgian designs, the boldness of Art Deco, or the expressive spirit of modern jewelry, there’s a piece from every era that tells a story. At Henne Jewelers in Pittsburgh, we love helping you find jewelry that speaks to your style and your soul.
Visit us in-store or browse our period jewelry online to see what treasures await. From heirloom-worthy finds to vintage-inspired gifts, your journey through jewelry history starts here.
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