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What Are Edwardian Engagement Rings?

What Are Edwardian Engagement Rings?

“Discover The Elegance And Beauty Of Edwardian Engagement Rings”

The year 1901 ushered in the Edwardian era; an era which saw King Edward VII ascending to the throne as King of England, alongside his fashionable wife, Alexandra of Denmark. In jewelry design terms, this period transcended the death of King Edward VII in 1910 and lasted through to 1918. Historians refer to the Edwardian period as the "beautiful era," and where jewelry and clothes were concerned, this was definitely an extravagant time.

Edwardian vs. Modern Rings

The year 1901 ushered in the Edwardian era; an era which saw King Edward VII ascending to the throne as King of England, alongside his fashionable wife, Alexandra of Denmark. In jewelry design terms, this period transcended the death of King Edward VII in 1910 and lasted through to 1918. Historians refer to the Edwardian period as the “beautiful era,” and where jewelry and clothes were concerned, this was definitely an extravagant time.

Edwardian Engagement Ring

Example of an Edwardian Engagement Ring

The designs of Edwardian jewelry were intended to complement the delicate white lace dresses that were popular among stylish women at that time. There are still a number of places from which individuals can purchase original pieces from the Edwardian era. Below are a few of the distinct features of the jewelry pieces made back then.

Metal Used in Edwardian Rings

During this time, it was the norm for rings and other pieces of jewelry to be made out of platinum over gold or pure platinum. This was the first era in which jewelers started to incorporate platinum in the design of their jewelry. Platinum over gold is incredibly strong and this enabled the creation of more delicate and intricate jewelry designs.

Artwork of an Edwardian Band and introduction to new diamond designs

Another distinctive feature of the Edwardian pieces is a center diamond, which is surrounded by designs that typically included bows, birds or flowers. This period was also responsible for the development of innovative diamond shapes and styles. New shapes of the diamond were cut and they included emerald, baguette and marquise cuts. The rose cut was popular as well.

Techniques and Patterns of Edwardian Engagement Rings

Showing a very popular Vintage Edwardian Style Engagement Ring. Notice the filigree detailing, scroll like patterns, and use of one color metal.

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Edwardian Hand Engraved Engagement Ring with Scroll Detailing

Edwardian Hand Engraved Engagement Ring with Scroll Detailing

"Edwardian Jewelry" was designed as delicately as possible.

Delicate ornamental work was also a hallmark of this time and it often included lacy patterns and scrollwork.

Milgraining, which is a technique in jewelry making, was widely used during that era. In this technique, a border of small ridges or balls was created by the jewelry designer around a setting or on the outer edges of the jewelry.

Influences of the Edwardian Style

Even though this era of jewelry design and creation is named in honor of King Edward VII and his wife, Alexandra of Denmark, the era was influenced by pieces of jewelry that were being created elsewhere on the continent of Europe, particularly in France. The period was responsible for the creation of several beautiful pieces of jewelry, which are still worn and admired by a number of individuals.

Ring Replications of the Edwardian Period

You can see the Edwardian influence in many of today’s modern rings. The milgrain details, the the ornate floral or scroll patterns, different cut diamonds, and, really, the overall designs are all reminders of the Edwardian Era. A testament to this time’s creative genius are all the unique engagement rings made today.

It very possible to find original Edwardian engagement rings out there, however, you can bet they will either be very expensive or a family heirloom. That’s why we are showcasing the ring we are on this page. To show you how many of the determining factors that point to the Edwardian period are in the modern designs. Although, nothing is truly comparable to the authentic and original pieces that this unforgettable era has produced, you won’t have to look far to see a design that showcases it’s memory.

Take a look at our 3 most popular unique engagement ring styles!

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