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.
Pair of Victorian Taille d'Epargne Enamel Bangle Cuffs
Located in Riverdale, NY
Pair of 14K Victorian Taille d'Epargne Enamel Bangle Cuffs from the 1870's. Lovely matching pair with ornate black enamel designs of elegant fruit baskets and Victorian tracery on bo...
14k Gold, Enamel
Victorian Silver Chased Curb Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Elegant Victorian Silver Chased Curb Link Bracelet from the late 19th Century. Elaborately chased links are hollow but not flimsy. Wonderful quality. Incredibly modern design for men...
Silver
Certified natural uncut rose cut Diamonds oxidized sterling silver bracelet
Located in Delhi, DL
Step into a world of timeless elegance with this exquisite Victorian-inspired diamond bracelet. This stunning hinged bangle is a true masterpiece, meticulously crafted to evoke the g...
Diamond, Sterling Silver
Antique C.1898 Sapphire and Pearl Bangle Bracelet in 9 Carat Yellow Gold
Located in Chipping Campden, GB
Antique C.1898 Sapphire and Pearl Bangle Bracelet in 9ct Yellow Gold delightful sapphire and pearl bangle, so sweet! The item co...
Pearl, Sapphire, Yellow Gold
Antique Victorian Etruscan Revival 18K Yellow Gold and Turquoise Bracelet.
Located in San Francisco, CA
This Stunning Antique Etruscan Revival 18K Yellow Gold and Turquoise Bracelet is a gorgeous one of a kind. Crafted in 18K Yellow Gold circa 1870, the design features 5 chains of gold...
Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Bohemian Gold Filled Garnet Bangle Bracelet
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A very fine Antique Bohemian gold-filled bangle bracelet. Prong set with garnets in a flower pattern to the top and around the circumference of the bra...
Garnet, Gold-filled
Antique Red Coral 14 Karat Gold Beaded Bracelet
Located in Rotterdam, NL
An antique 1900's natural red coral and 14 karat gold three-strand beaded bracelet. The coral beads of this bracelet are round-shaped and set with a beautiful round-shaped clasp crea...
Coral, 14k Gold, Gold
Victorian Bohemian Garnet Silver Bangle Bracelet
Located in Scotts Valley, CA
Details: Amazing Victorian Bohemian garnet bracelet encrusted in lovely deep red garnets. Nice round sparkly bangle bracelet with a lovely red...
Garnet, Silver
Certified natural uncut rose cut Diamonds oxidized sterling silver bracelet
Located in Delhi, DL
Step into a world of timeless elegance with this exquisite Victorian-inspired diamond bracelet. This stunning hinged bangle is a true masterpiece, meticulously crafted to evoke the g...
Diamond, Sterling Silver
Victorian Gold Filled Paste Set Bangle
Located in New York, NY
Victorian Gold Filled Paste Set Bangle from the 19th Century. Set with ruby pastes and faux half pearls on the top with hinged opening. 3/8" wide. 1880's USA.
Gold-filled
14K Cobalt Blue Enamel Snake Bracelet with Pearls
Located in North Hollywood, CA
This amazing 14K Yellow Gold Snake Bracelet is very special. This bracelet is done in Cobalt Blue Enamel, etched gold and Ruby Eyes. It also has (13) Thirteen pearls on the head at...
Pearl, Ruby, 14k Gold, Enamel
Heart shaped padlock bracelet, Early 20th Century
Located in London, GB
Late Victorian 15 carat gold chunky curb link bracelet with heart shaped padlock clasp Condition: Very good Date: Circa 1900 Weight: 22g Size: 18cm Hallmarks: Birmingham 1896, 15 car...
15k Gold
An important Victorian diamond carved half-hoop bangle
Located in London, GB
An important Victorian diamond carved half-hoop bangle, the nine old European-cut diamonds graduating in size from the centre, weighing 24.04 carats in total, accompanied by GIA cert...
Diamond, 15k Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Tri Color Gold Filled Bangle
Located in New York, NY
Victorian Tri Color Gold Filled Bangle. Late 19th Century with tri colored gold applications on Etruscan work base. Very good condition. 5/8" wide, Interior diameter 2.2" x 2". Sma...
Gold Plate, Gold-filled
Victorian 18K Gold Guilloché Enamel Cuff Bracelet Opals Fleur-de-Lis Design
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
Victorian 18K Gold Guilloché Enamel Cuff Bracelet Opals Fleur-de-Lis Design This Victorian cuff bracelet is crafted in 18K yellow gold and finished with a richly colored deep cobalt...
Opal, 18k Gold, Enamel
Antique Silver Etruscan Revival Astrological Zodiac Bangle
Located in New York, NY
Antique Silver Etruscan Revival Astrological Zodiac Bangle Solid, Heavy and an amazing statement bangle. Rare 81.45 grams W: 66.75 H: 55.87 Depth:26.23 fits up to a 7.5 inch wrist.
Silver
Victorian Gilt Hand Motif Cuff
Located in New York, NY
Unusual Victorian Gilt Hand Motif Cuff from the late 19th Century. A filigree motif is set on top of an adjustable cuff with hand and garnet ring motif . A piece of black velvet is p...
Garnet, Gilt Metal
Victorian Flower Panel Silver Cuff
Located in New York, NY
Charming Victorian Silver Cuff with central cartouche of flowers. Unusual design depicts a panel which is screwed onto the cuff like a picture frame with a bouquet of elaborately det...
Silver
Antique 18k Yellow Gold & Oval Faceted Citrine Bracelet
Located in Bernardsville, NJ
A stunning, fine and impressive 25 carat citrine and 18 carat yellow gold link bracelet This antique bracelet features three large oval faceted yellow citrines, the largest at 15 ca...
Citrine, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Victorian Sapphire Old Mine Cut Diamond Bracelet Gold Silver 1890s
Located in Lisbon, PT
Antique Victorian Sapphire and Old Cut Diamond Bracelet in Yellow Gold and Silver, circa 1890. A late 19th century jewel of floral and foliate design, featuring three mixed-cut oval ...
Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
Victorian Russian 14k and Sterling Silver Emerald and Diamond Halo Ring
Located in Narberth, PA
A breathtaking emerald and diamond ring converted from a Russian-made bracelet from the late Victorian (ca1890) era! Crafted in 14k yellow gold and sterling silver, this stunning rin...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
Victorian Colombian Emerald Diamond Curb Bracelet
Located in Napoli, IT
Victorian Treasure! Absolutely stunning Victorian find, precious and very wearable 18 KT solid gold bracelet Preciously made by the front array of natural Colombian Emeralds and old mine cut Diamonds connected by a rare Victorian solid gold curb bracelet...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Victorian Bird Aesthetic Sterling & Rose Gold Bracelet
Located in Scotts Valley, CA
Details: Beautiful Aesthetic movement European Victorian sterling silver, yellow and rose gold bird and bamboo pattern bracelet. The details on this piece are lovely, with a large ro...
Sterling Silver, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold
3.10cttw Blue Sapphire 1.95cttw Diamond Old Mine Cut 15ct English C/1890
Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
An exceptional and important antique bracelet. Featuring approximately 3.10 carats of fine blue sapphire amongst alternating Old Mine cut diamonds measuring 1.95 carats in total. Thi...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 15k Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,620Sale Price|20% Off
Sapphire Bangle Pink and Blue Royal Blue and Ruby-ish Pink with Pearls
Located in Northampton, MA
This Victorian pink & blue sapphire bangle with pearls was created in the late 1800s to early 1900s. It features 5 natural heated royal blue sapphires...
Pearl, Blue Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Ruby, Sapphire, 14k Gold
Burmese Ruby and Diamond Floral Cluster Statement Bracelet
Located in Chicago, IL
This Burmese Ruby and Diamond Statement Bracelet is an opulent fusion of classic elegance and contemporary floral design. Handcrafted in luminous 18K white gold, the piece features a...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold
Signed Froment-Meurice bangle bracelet in silver and 18k gold, French Victorian
Located in PARIS, FR
Froment-Meurice cuff bracelet in silver and gold . Wide, rigid bracelet decorated with flowers framed by two friezes of chiseled leaves, punctuated with silver beads. The clasp is go...
18k Gold, Silver
Antique Carnelian Diamond Cameo Bracelet 18 Kt Gold
Located in Napoli, IT
The octagonal clasp is set with Carnelian cameo skillful carving depicting the bust of a neoclassical lady, within a border of rose cut Diamonds giving out lovely sparkle and white t...
Carnelian, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
Victorian coral cameo bracelet in 18k gold, French Victorian facetted coral bead
Located in PARIS, FR
Victorian coral cameo bracelet in 18 karat gold. Bracelet composed of 6 rows of faceted coral beads. The clasp is a ratchet box, decorated with an oval cameo depicting an antique wom...
Coral, 18k Gold
Victorian Double Heart Diamond and Pearl Bangle
Located in London, GB
A Victorian double heart diamond and natural pearl bangle, the centre with two hearts intertwined each set with a pearl surrounded by old-cut di...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Era Ruby, Sapphire and Diamond Bangle Bracelet in 14 Karat Rose Gold
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Capture the timeless elegance of this vintage Victorian-era ruby, sapphire, and diamond bracelet, beautifully crafted in 14 karat rose gold. This exquisite piece showcases a harmonio...
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
Victorian Starburst Old-Mine Diamond Bangle in 18K Gold, Circa 1885
Located in Miami, FL
A timeless late-Victorian treasure crafted in rich 18K gold and set with five glowing old-mine cut diamonds in classic starburst settings. Each diamond measures approximately 4mm and...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Hungarian Silver Vermeil Enamel Chalcedony Seed Pearl Hinged Bangle
Located in New York, NY
A magnificent example of Austro-Hungarian craftsmanship, this rare antique silver vermeil bracelet from 1900s. The wide hinged bangle is adorned with exquisite hand-painted enamel in...
Chalcedony, Natural Pearl, Vermeil, Sterling Silver
Victorian Ruby and Diamond Cluster Ring or Bracelet
Located in London, GB
A Victorian ruby and diamond cluster ring/bracelet, the oval faceted ruby weighing 0.92 carats, accompanied by GCS Report stati...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian 5.58 Ct Opal Diamond Pearl 18 KT Bangle
Located in Napoli, IT
Victorian Opal Diamond Pearl 18 KT Bangle An impressive Victorian Period bangle boasting amazing workmanship , made of 18 Kt and silver for the Diamond setting Facing up with an el...
Diamond, Opal, Pearl, 18k Gold
Victorian Perpignan garnet bangle bracelet in 18k rose gold, French bangle
Located in PARIS, FR
Victorian Perpignan garnet bangle bracelet in 18k rose gold. Bracelet formed of two hollow rose gold rods and centered with seven round garnets. The garnets are “Perpignan-cut", a ro...
Garnet, Rose Gold
Victorian 14K Yellow Gold 2.5 Carat Old European Cut Diamond Sapphire Bangle
Located in Cape May, NJ
Era: Victorian Composition: 14K Yellow Gold Primary Stone: Twelve Natural Sapphires Carat Weight: Approximately 2 Carats Total Accent Stone: Old European Cut and Old Mine Cut Dia...
Diamond, Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Russian 14k and Sterling Silver Emerald and Diamond Halo Ring
Located in Narberth, PA
A breathtaking emerald and diamond ring converted from a Russian-made bracelet from the late Victorian (ca1890) era! Crafted in 14k yellow gold and sterling silver, this stunning rin...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
Antique 18k Yellow Gold Bezel Carved Coral Center Black Stone Wide Cuff Bracelet
Located in Montclair, NJ
This beautiful, antique, wide cuff bracelet is constructed from lovely black stone that has nice high polished finishing throughout and features a high quality natural coral stone th...
Coral, Yellow Gold
Antique 14K Yellow Gold Bracelet with Diamond c. 1890–1905
Located in Berlin, DE
This exceptional bracelet dates from around 1890–1905 and masterfully blends the intricate elegance of the late Victorian era with the organic motifs of emerging Art Nouveau design. ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,080Sale Price|20% Off
Amethyst Bangle Bracelet 19th Century 15K
Located in North Hollywood, CA
This Amethyst bangle bracelet is rare as we seldom find these bracelets surviving. This is beautiful as it alternates between large Amethyst and smaller ones throughout this bracele...
Amethyst, 15k Gold
Antique Victorian Bangle Turquoise Pearls
Located in Zurich, Zollstrasse
If the Victorian style makes your heart tremble, consider this Antique Victorian Bangle Bracelet in 14 K rose Gold featuring a natural Turquoise and seedpearls. The bangle secures wi...
Pearl, Turquoise, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
Antique French Victorian bracelet in 18K yellow gold with rose-cut diamonds
Located in PARIS, FR
French victorian diamond bracelet in 18 karat gold. This wide, supple bracelet is composed of a complex, ridged, matte tubular mesh, creating interlacing patterns. The bracelet is ad...
Diamond, Yellow Gold
1880's Victorian Dutch Amethyst Bracelet in 14K Solid Gold Fleur de Lis Setting
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
A refined Victorian Dutch bracelet, dating to the 1880s, crafted in solid 14K gold and set with a richly colored natural amethyst. The bracelet is distinguished by its elegant fleur-...
Amethyst, Gold, 14k Gold
21k Yellow Gold Ruby Floral Bangle, 6.75 inches - 22.5g
Located in Providence, RI
This exquisite 21k gold bangle showcases a romantic floral motif with vibrant pink stones and petite seed pearls. Designed in a classic bypass style, t...
Ruby, Yellow Gold
$595 / set
Pair of Victorian Gold Filled Bangles
Located in New York, NY
Pair of Victorian Gold Filled Bangles from the late 19th Century. Designed as crossover motif with textured ball hilts each set with a ruby paste...
Gold-filled
Vintage Victorian Reproduction 14k Yellow Gold Onyx and Diamond Bangle
Located in Boston, MA
Vintage Victorian Reproduction 14K Yellow Gold Onyx and Diamond Bangle - The bracelet contains 7 round brilliant diamonds which are set in a fl...
Diamond, Onyx
Antique Rose-Cut Diamond & Pearl Link Bracelet, mounted Silver over Gold.
Located in OVIEDO, AS
The bracelet features repeating floral/starburst motifs, each centered with a pearl and surrounded by rose-cut diamonds arranged in petal-like marquise and teardrop-shaped frames. Th...
Diamond, Pearl, 14k Gold, Silver, Gold
1890 Victorian Russian Sterling Silver Enamel Bracelet
Located in Lexington, KY
This is an incredibly unique Russian bracelet from the Victorian era in sterling silver and black enamel. The enamel work is incredibly detailed and features swirled patterns that cr...
Sterling Silver, Enamel
Victorian 18K Gold Guilloché Enamel Cuff Bracelet Opals Fleur-de-Lis Design
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
Victorian 18K Gold Guilloché Enamel Cuff Bracelet Opals Fleur-de-Lis Design This Victorian cuff bracelet is crafted in 18K yellow gold and finished with a richly colored deep cobalt...
Opal, 18k Gold, Enamel
Antique Victorian 18 Karat Gold White Black Enamel Engraved Bangle Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
A rare 18k yellow gold hollow form bangle bracelet with beautiful engraving and white and black enamel accents, circa 1880. This oval shaped bangle has a nice tubular width, with in...
Gold, 18k Gold, Enamel
$16,354Sale Price|20% Off
Old Diamonds 18 Kt Yellow Gold and Ruby Bracelet
Located in Marcianise, Marcianise (CE)
A must of a design for this clamper bracelet, with a snake shape. The snake body is composed of black enamel that's alternating with the 18 Kt yellow gold carved design, and on top o...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold