Design & Historical Context |
The Late Victorian or Aesthetic period was a time of great cultural and artistic flourishing in Europe and the United States, and this was reflected in the jewelry of the time. The Aesthetic movement, which emphasized beauty and art for art's sake, was particularly influential on jewelry design during this time.
Late Victorian or Aesthetic period jewelry is known for its intricate detailing and use of precious materials such as gold, silver, and diamonds. It often featured motifs such as flowers, animals, and nature scenes, and was inspired by a variety of cultural movements, including the Arts and Crafts movement, which sought to return to traditional craftsmanship and natural materials.
One of the most distinctive features of Late Victorian or Aesthetic period jewelry is its emphasis on the use of enamel. Enamel is a type of glass-like material that is fused to a metal surface, and it was often used to add color and detail to jewelry. The French firm, Cartier, was particularly known for its use of enamel in its Late Victorian or Aesthetic period pieces.
Late Victorian or Aesthetic period jewelry remains popular and is highly collectible to this day. It is often associated with the elegance and refinement of the time period, and is often seen as a symbol of wealth and sophistication.
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Materials & Craftsmanship |
Cushion-cut diamond
Cushion cut diamonds feature a rounded square or rectangular shape with rounded corners and a larger facet pattern than modern round brilliant diamonds. They have a soft, antique look and are known for their warmth and character. They are often chosen for their vintage appeal and their ability to add a touch of elegance and romanticism to a piece of jewelry. The facet pattern of cushion cut diamonds typically consists of 58 facets, arranged in a combination of rows and clusters. The depth of the diamond and the size of the facets can vary, resulting in different levels of sparkle and fire. Cushion cut diamonds can be found in a variety of colors and clarities, and are often used in engagement rings, pendants, and other types of jewelry.
18k
18k gold is a type of gold alloy that is commonly used in jewelry making. It is made up of 75% gold and 25% other metals, such as copper, silver, or palladium. The addition of other metals helps to increase the durability and strength of the gold, making it more suitable for use in jewelry. 18k gold is softer and more prone to scratching than higher karat golds, such as 22k or 24k, but it is still a popular choice for jewelry because of its warm, yellow color and good resistance to tarnishing. It is also less expensive than higher karat golds due to the smaller amount of gold used in the alloy. 18k gold is a popular choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewelry items.
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