Victorian (1837 - 1901)

The Victorian era produced an extraordinary range of jewelry styles, shaped largely by the life of Queen Victoria herself. Early Victorian jewelry embraced romantic symbolism—serpents, hearts, flowers, and sentimental motifs that expressed love, devotion, and memory. 

Following the death of Prince Albert in 1861, mourning jewelry became widespread. Pieces made from jet, onyx, and dark enamel reflected the solemn cultural mood of the time. 

Later Victorian jewelry embraced richer ornamentation and larger gemstones, signaling the prosperity of the late 19th century. 

Explore Victorian Decorative Arts →