Jewellery Eras

Every ÂGÉE piece belongs to an era. This is the short guide we use when we read a jewel — dates first, character second.

What is Georgian jewellery? (1714–1837)

Handmade before industrialisation: closed-back settings, foiled stones, nature motifs. Survivors are rare — gold was often reused — which makes documented Georgian pieces some of the most precious on the market.

What is Victorian jewellery? (1837–1901)

The long era of Queen Victoria: sentimental lockets, snakes as symbols of eternal love, mourning jewellery in jet, and later bold gold work. Romantic, symbolic, deeply personal.

What is Edwardian jewellery? (1901–1915)

Lightness above all: platinum lace, garlands, bows and millegrain detail, often set with old European cut diamonds. Elegant, airy, aristocratic.

What is Art Nouveau jewellery? (1890–1910)

Nature drawn in curves: dragonflies, orchids, female profiles, enamel work. A short, visionary movement — original pieces are highly collectible.

What is Art Déco jewellery? (1920–1935)

Geometry organising light: calibré-cut emeralds and sapphires, old European cut diamonds, strong symmetry, platinum and white gold. The most requested vintage era — and the most imitated, which is why documentation matters.

What is Retro jewellery? (1935–1950)

Bold volumes in yellow and rose gold, tank bracelets, oversized cocktail rings. Glamour built during hard times — sculptural and confident.

What is Mid-Century jewellery? (1950–1970)

Post-war joy: textured gold, animal brooches, turquoise and coral, playful volumes. The era of the great Italian goldsmiths.

What is Vintage Modern jewellery? (1980–2000)

Bold gold, tubogas, strong lines and cocktail stones — pieces made for presence. Recent enough to wear daily, old enough to be one of one.

Browse the archive — every piece is dated, documented and one-of-a-kind. Curious how we verify them? Read our method.