Edwardian rings

Edwardian rings are engagement rings from the Edwardian period, also known as Belle Epoque. This period was known for its luxurious extravagance in jewelry and in fashion. The era from 1901 to 1910 is named after the reign of King Edward VII, the popularity of the designs included the time frame up to about 1920.

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History

The art deco period followed the Edwardian period. Art deco forms tended to be much more geometric, while Edwardian period rings featured romantic traditionalism. The ring settings were exquisitely detailed. The social status of the wearer could be determined by the intricacy of the settings.

Rings of this period reflected sultry fashion and romantic imagery. The rings were traditional yet flamboyant. There was a high degree of romance evident in the ring styles, all of which blend with the beauty of the era. All Edwardian engagement rings are exceptionally unique and show beautiful craftsmanship. In addition, there are some design elements which are found in most, if not all the rings from the Edwardian period.
Filigree patterns were extremely elaborate. The patterns extended along the crown of the ring as well as on the ring band. There were both integrated designs and pierced patterns which were quite common. Accent stones were small, but there were typically several of them. Pave settings were the most popular design for engagement ring designs.

Subtle curves, arches and contours coordinated with the scroll work and filigree designs. The filigree itself often incorporated romantic imagery such as hearts, bows, vines, birds and flowers. Setting for the gem stones were typically simple, with prongs being the most popular setting, with bezel setting also used commonly in ring settings.

Accents covered the surface of the crown, band, and sides of the shank. Etching often were used on the metal to add even more texture. The most common diamond shape was the round stone, although cushion cut and emerald cut were also familiar cuts. Semi-precious gemstones occasionally were used as the focus stones in the center of the ring. Typically, these semi precious focus stones included aquamarines, sapphires and rubies. Edwardian rings used platinum, silver and white gold as the ring metal. A yellow gold Edwardian ring is almost non-existent.

Each Edwardian ring stands alone as a miniature work of art with elaborate detail and a quite distinctive style. A true Edwardian ring was never a matched set.

ources

[http://www.engagementrings.nu/edwardian_rings.html Edwardian Rings]