Also called Aesthetic period jewelry, historians have determined that antique late Victorian jewelry and watches are representative of an era that lasted from about 1880 until 1901 and ushered in the Belle Époque.
Queen Victoria wore her heart on her sleeve, and her emotions were reflected in her fashion and in what we now call Victorian jewelry. By about 1880, Queen Victoria and her constituents were ready to look to the future. The dark skies were parting and fashion was changing. There was also a major shift in industry.
While in the beginning of Queen Victoria’s reign the focus was on manufacturing, toward the later years there was a renewed interest and appreciation of the handmade. The late Victorian period (1880–1901) was referred to as the Aesthetic period and coincided with these changing tastes.
The Aesthetic Movement, concerned with “art for art’s sake,” began in Britain around the 1870s and became recognized by designers and artists worldwide, eventually resulting in the Arts and Crafts movement (1880s–1920s).
Stylistically, jewelry of this time period did not resemble its earlier Victorian counterparts, in fact it was in complete opposition to what preceded it. Gone were the mourning jewelry, heavy brooches and large necklaces. Late Victorian-era jewelry was smaller, lighter and more dainty. Women still layered pieces, though, and favored smaller scatter pins. Jewelry also became an evening accessory and not so visible during the day.
Women were starting to actively participate in sporting events (socially, of course, not professionally), so athletic motifs showed up on their accessories. Lockets and heart pendants remained popular, but the REGARD or DEAREST rings of the early Victorian period were replaced by Mizpah pieces, which means “the Lord watches over me” in Hebrew. These items were exchanged between two people to symbolize a close bond.
Diamonds came into fashion, and semiprecious gems such as amethysts and opals became prevalent, too. Using gemstones for their natural beauty and not their worth was something that jewelers of the Aesthetics movement felt passionate about, and this ideology would really become relevant in Art Nouveau jewelry.
The Brits still looked to their monarchs to dictate the latest trends. Queen Victoria’s daughter-in-law Alexandra famously wore a dog-collar necklace, also known as a collier de chien, made up of multiple strands of pearls, to hide a scar. This style of necklace quickly rose to prominence. Toward the end of the 19th century, solitaire rings were also becoming fashionable thanks to Tiffany & Co.’s advent of the six-prong diamond setting in 1886. Platinum was starting to be used in jewelry production as well. Edwardian and, afterward, Art Deco engagement rings that followed in the wake of Queen Victoria’s death in 1901 would be characterized by complex geometric designs and platinum settings.
Women were the biggest influences on jewelry. They joined the workforce, fought for their independence and overall began to lead a much more active lifestyle. Jewelry had to become comfortable and serve multiple purposes. While in the United States, the Gibson Girls lifestyle was emulated by young women, and starlets became trendsetters.
Finally, the international expositions made the world seem like a much smaller place and jewelry from North Africa and India captured people’s attention, appealing to those who already favored Revival jewelry from the Etruscans to the Romans.
Find antique late Victorian jewelry and watches on 1stDibs.
Victorian Rose Diamond Enamel Pendant Brooch
Located in New York, NY
Victorian Rose Diamond Enamel Pendant Brooch-Pendant from the 1870's. Charming design with angel putti playing with florals. Likely French in origin with hand painted porcelain in a ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Enamel, Silver
Victorian Gunmetal Photo Locket Slide Necklace
Located in New York, NY
Victorian Gunmetal Photo Locket Slide Necklace. Weve assembled these pieces from the same era together. A brown hemp/linen twine slide necklace holds a ...
Metal
$7,988Sale Price|20% Off
VICTORIAN Bohemian 1880 Gilt Festoon Necklace With 112.90 Ctw Of Natural Garnets
Located in Miami, FL
Victorian large festoon necklace with Bohemian red garnets. This is a fabulous and rare antique festoon Bohemian necklace created in England during th...
Garnet, Silver, Gilt Metal
$952Sale Price|20% Off
Rare Late Victorian Moonstone and Paste Sterling Silver Draped Necklac
Located in Honolulu, HI
A rare late-Victorian sterling silver necklace set with luminous moonstone cabochons and finely cut Victorian paste stones. Each moonstone displays a soft, internal glow—an opaline s...
Moonstone, Sterling Silver
Victorian Gold Griffin Pendant
Located in New York, NY
Lovely Victorian Gold Griffin Pendant with diamond accent in mouth. The chain is a pinkish ornate link in 10k gold matched to this late 19th Century griffin brooch in 14K. The ornat...
Diamond, Gold, 10k Gold, 14k Gold
Unusual Victorian Agate Figural Fob
Located in New York, NY
Rare Victorian Agate Figural Fob from the late 19th Century of gilt metal with striped Scottish agate. Finely detailed elk or deer motif with original bal...
Agate, Gilt Metal
$559Sale Price|20% Off
Antique Victorian Labradorite Silver Drop Necklace, England, circa 1880-1900
Located in Honolulu, HI
This delicate antique necklace, sourced from the United Kingdom, is a poetic representation of the late Victorian era's naturalistic and sentimental design. The piece features a seri...
Labradorite, Silver
Victorian Gold Pendant 1.50 Carat Natural Old European Diamond, circa 1910
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Victorian Yellow Gold Pendant, set with 31 approximately 1.50 Carat Natural Old European Diamonds ranging from F-H color and VS-SI in cla...
Diamond, Gold
Antique Victorian 15CT YG Amethyst Festoon Necklace
Located in New York, NY
A rare example of a 15ct gold necklace, a hallmark of British antique jewelry. This elegant antique necklace crafted in 15ct gold, designed as a graceful festoon with draped chain sw...
Amethyst, 15k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian turquoise and diamond negligée necklace, circa 1895.
Located in London, GB
Victorian turquoise and diamond negligée necklace. Centrally set with an oval cabochon natural turquoise in an open back claw setting, with a...
Diamond, Turquoise, Gold, Platinum, Silver
Late Victorian Aquamarine and Diamond Laurel Brooch/Pendant
Located in London, GB
A late Victorian aquamarine and diamond-set brooch/pendant, centrally-set with an oval-shaped faceted aquamarine, surrounded by delicate openwork diamond-set frame of laurel garlands, ribbon ties and foliate motifs, suspending a pear-shaped aquamarine drop, the yellow gold-set aquamarines estimated to weigh a total of 6.8 carats, the diamonds estimated to weigh a total of 1.3 carats, all set in silver to a yellow gold mount, with detachable necklace and brooch fitting, circa 1890, measuring approximately 4.9x4.6cm, gross weight 19 grams. Victorian pendant/brooch in Very Good condition. Unmarked, metal tested as 18ct Gold and Silver. A beautiful aquamarine brooch...
Aquamarine, Diamond, 18k Gold, Silver
Late Victorian Jade 14 Karat Yellow Gold Antique Floral Fancy Link Drop Necklace
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Designed as fancy link necklace comprised of bezel set jade cabochon links graduating in size Marquise, round, and oval shaped ranging in size from 13.0 x 4.5 mm to 26.5 x 8.0 mm Cen...
Jade, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Victorian Bow Necklace with Split Pearls in 15K Yellow Gold.
Located in San Francisco, CA
Gorgeous, one of kind, Victorian Necklace with Split Pearls in 15K Yellow Gold is just so special. Wonderful detailed with articulated arms and the dangling medallion. There are a to...
Pearl, 15k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Seed Pearl and Crystal Necklace in 15k Yellow Gold
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A stunning antique Victorian seed pearl and crystal, 15 karat yellow gold necklace; part of our diverse antique estate jewelry collections. This stunning, fine and impressive antique necklace has been crafted in 15k yellow gold. The feature setting has a floriated paired leaf design, ornamented to the center with a cabochon cut crystal. A further two cabochon cut crystals are displayed to the terminal of two asymmetrical pair leaf design linear drops. Each crystal is ornamented with a seed pearl set diagonal band. The floriated setting is embellished with a total of one hundred and sixty-seven pavé and bezel set seed pearls, varying in size depending on position. The necklace chain is composed of one hundred and three individual seed pearl set links, securing to the reverse with a rectangular push fit fastening. The necklace benefits from the addition security of a fine link safety chain. This antique Victorian pearl and crystal necklace is fitted to the original leatherette, satin and velvet lined push fit presentation case. The necklace has been independently tested using state of the art technology (Niton XL2 Analyzer) and verified as 15k gold. This antique 1880's floriated necklace is supplied with an independent diamond grading report card. Images do not always reflect the true color and brilliance of gemstones and diamonds. The video however provides a truer representation of the actual color and showcases each stone. Condition This stunning antique gemstone necklace...
Crystal, Pearl, 15k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late-Victorian 9k Yellow Gold Fob Chain Circa 1890s
Located in ADELAIDE, SA
This antique fob chain from the late-Victorian era is crafted in 9k yellow gold and features solid graduated curb links with a T-bar drop. Secured and fitted with two swivel clasps. ...
9k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late Victorian Jade 14 Karat Yellow Gold Antique Floral Fancy Link Drop Necklace
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Designed as fancy link necklace comprised of bezel set jade cabochon links graduating in size Marquise, round, and oval shaped ranging in size from 13.0 x 4.5 mm to 26.5 x 8.0 mm Cen...
Jade, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Long Chain Assemblage, Circle of Life, Studio VL
By Studio VL
Located in Riverdale, NY
Victorian Long Chain Assemblage made of elements from the late 19th Century. A long black enamel link mourning chain in 14k from the 1880's is married to a mechanical toy...
Diamond, 14k Gold
Victorian 1890s Diamond Aquamarine Pearl and Yellow Gold Pendant or Brooch
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A stunning Victorian 3.22 carat diamond and 2.10 carat aquamarine, seed pearl and 18 karat gold pendant / brooch; part of our diverse antique jewelry collections. This stunning, fine and impressive antique aquamarine pendant...
Aquamarine, Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
16.47tcw 14K Vintage Inspired Oval Emerald Cabochon & Oval Amethyst Drop Pendant
Located in Jupiter, FL
A remarkable emerald and amethyst necklace, that showcases three gorgeous gemstones. At the very top of the piece, a 1.86-carat, natural cabochon emerald. Followed by a 1.83-carat, n...
Amethyst, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
137.64 Carat Square Cushion Rock Crystal Quartz Necklace with Green Tourmaline
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This dramatic statement necklace features a striking 137.64 carat square cushion-cut rock crystal quartz pendant, suspended from a series of articulated gold bar links that create a ...
Crystal, Quartz, Rock Crystal, Tourmaline, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Bohemian Garnet And Silver Gilt Necklace Circa 1870's
Located in Firenze, IT
Victorian bohemian garnet necklace. This piece is set in silver gilt with pretty garnet flowers and smaller drop flowers. Circa 1870-80, Mea...
Garnet, Silver, Gilt Metal
Georgian Long Chain 18K Gold Necklace with French Medallion
Located in Moreno Valley, CA
Georgian Long Chain 18K Gold Necklace with French 18 Karat Yellow Gold Medallion. The long chain necklace is formed of 18K gold. Voluminous, yet s...
18k Gold, Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold Hand-Carved Libra Zodiac Agate Cameo Pendant Necklace
Located in Jaipur, Rajasthan
18 karat yellow gold hand-carved libra zodiac agate cameo pendant necklace. Presenting the enchanting Libra Zodiac Carving Cameo Pendant Necklace from our Zodiac Collection. This exquisite necklace features a meticulously crafted cameo made by an expert cameo engraver in Germany. The cameo is skilfully engraved on a relief of 100% natural agate rock sourced from Brazil, known for its captivating chalcedony variations. The pendant is elegantly set in 18K gold, meticulously crafted in our India workshop. At the center of the pendant, a stunning 20x15 mm oval Agate cameo takes the spotlight. Its black and white color combination creates a striking contrast, adding depth and allure to the overall design. The Libra Carving Cameo Pendant Necklace is a versatile piece that complements V-neck dresses of any color, allowing you to effortlessly express your personal style. It is equally suitable for regular wear, making it a perfect accessory to elevate your everyday outfits. This necklace showcases exceptional craftsmanship, combining the expertise of the German cameo...
Agate, Chalcedony, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Bochic Capri Vintage 112ct Natural Ruby Necklace in 18K Gold & Silver
By Bochic
Located in New York, NY
Bochic “Capri” Vintage 112 Carat Natural Ruby Necklace Set in 18K Gold & Silver — Italian Elegance, Exceptional Rarity Experience the height of Mediterranean luxury with this s...
Ruby, 18k Gold, Silver
Antique Victorian Bohemian Garnet Drop Necklace
Located in London, GB
Beautifully designed Victorian necklace set with faceted Bohemian garnets. The garnets are set in low carat gold, with lovely garnet flowers and drops, and a large centre garnet. The necklace is a shorter length measuring length 37.3 cm / 14.7 inches, and the central drop measures 4.7 cm / 1.85 inches. This is a really exquisite antique garnet necklace...
Italian Snake Motif Adjustable Lariat Necklace 14 Karat Yellow Gold 15 Grams
Located in New York, NY
Made in Italy, this necklace features a snake motif making the lariat adjustable, in 14 karat yellow gold. Can be worn as a choker or longer. Available in three different sizes. ...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Victorian Bohemian Garnet Necklace
Located in New York, NY
Antique Victorian necklace with Bohemian garnets, comes in original fitted box. Necklace is 14.5" long and 25mm at the center widest point. ...
Garnet
Victorian Garnet Bracelet Flower Bohemian Garnets Antique 1880 Garnet Clasp
Located in New York, NY
THIS IS AN ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS EARLY ANTIQUE VICTORIAN BELLE EPOQUE BOHEMIAN GARNET BRACELET WITH FLOWER FLORETS OF SUPERB DEEP RED WINE GARNETS WITH A FLO...
Garnet, Gold-filled, Silver
Victorian Garnet Pearl Necklace Flower Bohemian Garnets Antique Belle Epoque
Located in New York, NY
THIS IS AN ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS 17 INCH ANTIQUE VICTORIAN BELLE EPOQUE BOHEMIAN GARNET AND PEARL NECKLACE WITH FLOWER FLORETS IN THE CHAIN OF...
Garnet, Pearl, Gold-filled, Silver
$1,060
H 3.12 in W 3.55 in L 15.2 in
Antique Egyptian Revival Scarab Festoon Necklace Pink Glass Gilt Metal
Located in Munich, Bavaria
This elegant Egyptian Revival necklace was created during the Belle Époque, 1885-1905 ca. The necklace is composed of four cast pink glass scarabs with impressed fantasy inscriptions...
Gilt Metal
$699
H 1.57 in W 6.1 in L 21.26 in
Antique Victorian Amethyst Festoon Cross Drop Necklace Circa 1890-1900
Located in Honolulu, HI
An elegant antique late Victorian era festoon drop necklace, circa 1890-1900. Rendered in a beautifully patinated gold-filled finish, this piece features a 15.5 cm frontal festoon sp...
Amethyst, Gold Plate
Sold
W 0.62 in L 17.88 in
Late Victorian Jade 14 Karat Yellow Gold Antique Floral Fancy Link Drop Necklace
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Designed as fancy link necklace comprised of bezel set jade cabochon links graduating in size Marquise, round, and oval shaped ranging in size from 13.0 x 4.5 mm to 26.5 x 8.0 mm Cen...
Jade, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Gargoyle and Pearl Drop Pendant
Located in New York, NY
Victorian 14K Gargoyle and Pearl Drop Pendant from the late 19th Century. Beautifully modeled conjoined dragons/gargoyles sit atop 3 long Mississippi Pearl tooth pearls. Late 19th Ce...
Pearl, 14k Gold
Antique Rose Garnet & Seed Pearl Bohemian 9K Yellow Gold Drop Necklace, c.1900s
Located in London, GB
Step into the elegance of the past with this stunning antique Bohemian necklace, a true testament to the exquisite craftsmanship of the Late Victorian period. Crafted in warm 9 cara...
Garnet, Pearl, Gold, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late Victorian 15K Gold Sapphire and Seed Pearl Necklace.
Located in San Francisco, CA
What a gorgeous antique! Late Victorian, can be worn as a necklace or brooch, nice big Sapphire center - what's not to LOVE. Crafted in 15K Gold, the design features open work with l...
Pearl, Sapphire, 15k Gold
Antique Enamel Navette and Gold Chain Station Necklace, circa 1900
Located in London, GB
An antique enamel and gold navette station necklace, with a navette shaped pendant locket, painted with cherubs, amongst a classic scene, of a pedestal, urn, flowers and foliage, on ...
Gold, Enamel
Antique Victorian Filigree 14K Yellow Pear Briolette Citrine Y Drop Necklace
Located in Winter Springs, FL
A beautiful example of true jewelry history. This Victorian-era drop necklace is hand crafted in 14K yellow gold with a beautiful filigree links leading to an approximately 90ct brio...
Citrine, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Sold
W 2.96 in L 16.5 in
Victorian 1880 Drop Necklace In 14Kt Gold With 187.50 Cts Turquoises & Sapphires
Located in Miami, FL
Late Victorian 19th century drop Necklace with Turquoises. An exceptional piece of jewelry, most probably British created during the late Victorian era (1840-1901), back in the 1880...
Sapphire, Turquoise, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Sold
H 2.54 in L 15.5 in
Victorian 1890 Necklace in 18kt Gold with 51.04cts Peridots Turquoises & Pearls
Located in Miami, FL
A gems set necklace from the Victorian era. Beautiful drop necklace, created in England during the Victorian era, back in the 1890. This piece was designed with very colorful taste ...
Pearl, Peridot, Turquoise, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Fleur de Lis Paste Locket
Located in New York, NY
Charming Victorian Gold Filled Fleur de Lis Locket from the 19th Century set with clear and green pastes which have patinaed evenly. Locket missing...
Gold Plate
Sold
W 1.33 in L 13.5 in
Vintage Victorian Silver and Copper Locket with Copper Link Chain Circa 1890s
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Victorian Silver and Copper Color Locket with Cooper Color Link Chain. The Locket does open and could accept photos as it has the covering in place. The back as shown in th...
Mixed Metal
Antique Old Cut Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald and Pearl 15ct Gold Pendant
Located in London, GB
This spectacular and ornate handmade Late Victorian pendant is an openwork foliate and scroll design, set with an old cut diamond in the centre weighing approximately 0.85ct in a rub...
Diamond, Emerald, Pearl, Ruby, Sapphire, Gold, 15k Gold, Yellow Gold, Pl...
Sold
W 0.6 in L 1.23 in
Vintage 14 Karat Yellow Gold Enameled Seed Pearl Lingerie Pin by Riker Brothers
Located in Troy, MI
Vintage 14 karat lingerie bar pin the style of which was used early in the 20th century and into the 1920s with 3 seed pearls & white enamel edging by Riker Bros. Can be worn as a de...
Pearl, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel