The Roots Of Cottagecore: What jewelry was popular in 1890s?

Step into a bygone era of opulence and extravagance with us and indulge in the exquisite world of 1890s jewelry. Feel the comforting weight of a luxurious choker around your neck, hear the delicate tinkle of dainty earrings swaying or the playful shimmer of a golden brooch glinting in the light.

Picture yourself in a gown of finery, adorned with jewels fit for a queen and experience the immersive sensory pleasure of this lavish period in fashion. Come with us on a journey of fantastic jewels from the era and understand the inspiration of these pieces that still remain beloved today.

The 1890s Jewelry Aesthetic

The 1890s, at least in rich countries, were a time of great change. They are known as the Gilded years or the Belle epoque because of the sudden opulence that was seemingly everywhere. The innovation obviously showed in the jewelry trends, with styles emerging that would set the tone for the decades to come.

Antique-style pendant necklace from BijouxPassionParis

The aesthetic of jewelry from this time was characterized by a heavy focus on glam with some still some hints of natural elements. So, you’d have heavy strands of pearls but also brooches with dainty floral and foliate motifs.

The style of the day were intricate details in materials such as gold, platinum, and sterling silver. The details in jewelry and ball dresses were often made with the purpose of glittering in the light, which was partly a response to the invention of the electric lightbulb.

As far as the day wear goes, popular styles during the 1890s included not just necklaces, bracelets and earrings, but also brooches and pins. They were worn to accessorize modest dresses that covered the cleavage area.

The most popular colors during this time were subtle pastels and earth tones, and ornate pieces were often adorned with precious stones and pearls.

IG @the.gilded.victorians, photo from around 1890

IG @lisalavenderwonderland

Antique-style brooch from BijouxPassionParis

As was common during Victorian times, jewelry often featured delicate engravings and represented symbols of love, luck, and friendship.

Although the traditional symbols and aesthetics of the 1890s jewelry were rooted in the trends of that era, there were some elements neutral enough to be still featured heavily in modern fashion: Chunky, bold statement pieces, not much later geometric and asymmetric designs, and always a wide variety of stone and beads with intricate designs.

So, even though the modern day subcultures place more emphasis on expressiveness and personal identity, the styles of jewelry from the 1890s offer a timeless and unique look and feel that can be adapted for our contemporary aesthetics. These pieces have the potential to transcend age by bringing a certain element of nostalgia that never goes out of style.

Vintage-style jewelry set from Etsy: BijouxPassionParis

Photo by @sae.film

IG @_ardenconroy_

IG @the.gilded.victorians, photo from 1899

Dress from Etsy: shopwildercollective

Tiny freshwater pearl choker from Etsy: JuJuJewelryStudio

Geometric bracelet, antique-style, from Etsy: BijouxPassionParis

IG @rainiana

Glam of rare gems

Evoke the glamour of a bygone age with an indulgent exploration of precious metals, gems, and intricate detailing that characterized this era.

Antique-style brooch with a gem from BijouxPassionParis

It was an immersion in a world of romanticism, beauty and elegance; of luscious necklaces crafted from gold or silver and encrusted with diamonds, rubies and sapphires. Picture a woman wearing a delicate choker that sparkles with every movement of her head.

This was the time of art nouveau, so maybe try a pair of earrings with lush designs in emerald, onyx or turquoise.

Tinted precious metals

For the daring, experiment with an edgy necklace of twisted gold wire or a bold, layered necklace of red-tinted copper with vibrant garnets. Or explore a range of daring styles, from rings adorned with a single, large, emerald-cut diamond to thicker, statement pieces with an array of smaller gems.

Create a luxurious, decadent look with a combination of fine jewelry. Layer a variety of necklaces – delicate strands dripping with pearls or chunky rows of glossy coins. Finish off a statement look by pairing fine jewelry with an equally opulent outfit. Imagine a woman in a sweeping evening gown of velvet and silk, her neck adorned with a diamond-studded collar, her fingers dazzling with gem-studded rings.

What jewelry was popular in the 1890s? Whatever your personal style, the period of the Gilded Age offered a range of extravagant, luxurious, romantic and edgy pieces, all tailored to the exquisite tastes of the time. An opportunity to indulge in a truly decadent experience and escape to a place of beauty, elegance and romance.

In the 1890s, a variety of jewelry was popular amongst the affluent so much that it has been revived as vintage style today. This was due to the fashionable styles and trends of the era. Many of the pieces were adorned with semi-precious gems, including pearl drop earrings, intricate filigree work, and famous cameo pendants.

Gold and silver were also popular metal colors for pieces. Brooches and pins were often pinned to the bodice of dresses, while long beaded necklaces and pendants often framed the neckline. On the weekends, large and bold statement rings were the perfect accent for a night out and supplied enough sparkle to make an outfit exciting. Not only did jewelry make a statement, but it provided a way to gain recognition through the elite social class, ultimately changing the power of fashion to influence society.

Today, a small selection of vintage jewelry from the 1890s is still available in both antique stores and online shops, continuing its legacy in fashion for generations to come.