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.
Colombian Emerald & Old Mine Diamond Ring, 18K, France
Located in Northampton, MA
Sleek and classic, this hefty, substantial (9 grams) men's ring (although a woman could certainly wear it) features an incredible rich green GIA. certified F1 emerald from Colombia t...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Late Victorian 4.18 Ct No Heat Ceylon Sapphire 1.70 Ct. Old Diamond Rare ring
Located in Napoli, IT
This antique early 20th Century is a dream to any lover of rare finds. Date 1920 circa, Italian origin. It has been hand created by a past master to make it stand perfectly on finger...
Sapphire, 18k Gold
Victorian Old Mine Cut Diamond Starburst Ring, Celestial, 1899, Size 4.25, 18K
Located in Upland, CA
About This Ring: Add a touch of enchantment to your collection with our Antique Celestial Ring. This stunning piece boasts a rare old mine cut ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
Pigeon blood Burmese ruby and diamond ring, late 19th Century.
Located in London, GB
Pigeon blood Burmese ruby and diamond ring. Set to centre with a rare cushion shape old cut natural no heat Pigeon blood Burmese ruby in an open back grain setting with a weight of 1...
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Gold
$3,200Sale Price|20% Off
Victorian Diamond and Certified No-Heat Burma Pink Sapphire Ring
Located in Northampton, MA
Natural, unheated Burmese pink sapphires and a halo of single-cut diamonds surround a central oval pink sapphire in this late Victorian ring. Cra...
Diamond, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold, Silver
Antique 19th Century 18k Yellow Gold Burma Ruby Five Stone Ring
Located in New York, NY
A superb antique 18k yellow gold ruby five stone ring circa 1880. The rubies are certified by the American Gemological Laboratory as Burma with no heat treatment. The rubies are acce...
Ruby, Yellow Gold
Allsopp Victorian 18 Karat Yellow Gold Antique Heraldic Crest Unisex Signet Ring
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Designed as an oval-shaped signet face centering a carved intaglio heraldic crest Displaying a flower with scrolling vines above a crest with stars and a bird Flanked by rounded shou...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Portuguese 5ct Unheated Burmese Raspberry Spinel & Old-Mine Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
An extraordinary, investment-grade heirloom centred on an approximately 5.00-carat natural, unheated Burmese spinel of exceptional museum quality, originating from Mogok, Burma (Myanmar), with no indications of heat treatment. The centre stone displays a highly coveted, deeply saturated raspberry-pink hue with outstanding transparency and an ultra-rare 100% eye-clean clarity profile, radiating remarkable brilliance and life. Sourced from the historic old mines of Mogok — the legendary "Valley of Rubies" — this completely untreated specimen is an absolute rarity at this significant carat weight; fine unheated Mogok spinels...
Diamond, Spinel
No oil Colombian emerald and diamond cluster ring, circa 1900.
Located in London, GB
No oil Colombian emerald and diamond cluster ring. Set to centre with a cushion shape old cut natural Colombian emerald with no oil in an open back claw and cutdown setting with an a...
Diamond, Emerald, Yellow Gold
Antique c.1860–1880 Victorian Gold Enamel Mourning Ring
Located in New York, NY
This exquisite mourning ring is a poignant example of Victorian sentimentality, beautifully crafted in gold with a hand-engraved and black enamel face. At its centre lies a compartme...
Gold, Enamel
Antique 1.40 Carat Sapphire and Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a striking cluster ring from the late 19th century. This exquisite piece showcases a deep blue sapphire at its centre, surrounded by a frame of round faceted old mine-cu...
Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1900's Victorian Dutch Antique Rosecut Diamond Entourage Ring Heirloom Jewelry
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
1900's Victorian Dutch Antique Rosecut Diamond Entourage Ring Heirloom Jewelry This original 19th-century Dutch ring features a beautiful hand-cut rose-cut diamonds, set in the clas...
Diamond, 14k Gold
Late Victorian 3-Stone Ruby & Diamond Cluster Ring in 18k Gold, Circa 1900
Located in Altrincham, GB
This pretty antique cluster ring is set with three juicy rubies, surrounded by a cluster of old cut diamonds that rest in fine gold settings with a finely pierced gallery. The three ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
Antique Victorian 9K Yellow Gold Marquise Chalcedony Signet Ring, England
Located in Honolulu, HI
A quintessential example of late Victorian craftsmanship, this authentic 9K yellow gold signet ring features a smooth, marquise-shaped chalcedony with a mesmerizing, misty lavender g...
Chalcedony, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian 3.60 Ct Certified Burma Natural Sapphire 2.30 Ct Diamond Ring
Located in Napoli, IT
Victorian Tradition Spectacular Victorian period Diamond and Sapphire cluster ring which is in the tradition of the antique jewellery, 1890/1900 ca Hand crafted of solid 18 Kt gold i...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Victorian 14K Gold Trilogy Ring, 2.30 Ct Old Mine Diamonds, Circa 1890
Located in Napoli, IT
Rare Find This quite extraordinary antique Victorian period ring is the embodiment of beauty during that period time, 1890/1900 ca Glorious Victorian hand craftsmanship of solid 14 k...
Diamond, 14k Gold
Antique Victorian Opals Diamonds 18 Karat Gold Ring, Circa 1890s, UK
Located in Buckingham , Buckinghamshire
An exceptional Victorian opal and diamond trilogy ring dating to the circa 1890s, crafted in 18 carat yellow gold. Details * Victorian opal and diamond trilogy ring * Circa 1890s *...
Diamond, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold
Antique Gold Ring with GIA Certified Russian Emerald & Old Mine Cut Diamonds
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This lovely Victorian Period 18K yellow gold ring is set with one center emerald cut Russian emerald surrounded by a total of twenty two old mine cut diamonds. It is as sophisticated...
Emerald, Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
$6,461Sale Price|20% Off
1900's Victorian Dutch Antique 2.00 Rosecut Diamond Entourage Ring
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
Antique Dutch 2.00ct Rose-Cut Diamond Ring This original 19th-century Dutch ring features a beautiful hand-cut rose-cut diamonds, set in the classic silver over gold style of the p...
Diamond, 14k Gold
C1940 14K Ruby Sapphire and Diamond Flush Mount or Gypsy Three Stone Ring
Located in Baltimore, MD
We love this three stone ring for its eye catching, red white and blue array which includes a substantial sapphire, ruby and diamond. Our ring weighs a hefty 10 grams. Three stone ...
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Edwardian Certified 6.35 Ct Imperial Topaz 1.20 CT Diamond three stone Ring
Located in Napoli, IT
Rare Find Imperial Topaz is also known as “precious Topaz”. It is the most sought after in the Topaz family, considered to be the colour of the setting sun, imperial topaz gets its n...
Imperial Topaz, Diamond, Platinum, 18k Gold
Vintage cocktail 18k Rose Gold Snake Ring, 6.30ct Old European Diamonds
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
A unique vintage 18k rose gold cocktail snake ring set with 21 old European cut diamonds. A true statement piece for the finger! The head of the snake is decorated with an old Europe...
Diamond, Rose Gold
Ceylon Sapphire & Rose Cut Diamond Cluster Ring, Circa 1880, Nearly 7 Carats
Located in Northampton, MA
Late Victorian Ceylon Sapphire & Rose Cut Diamond Cluster Ring, Circa 1880 – Nearly 7 Carats This exceptional late Victorian cluster ring showcases the enduring elegance of 19th-cen...
Diamond, Sapphire, 14k Gold, Silver
Antique Ruby Cabochon and 18K Yellow Gold Ring
Located in Denver, CO
An impressive natural red ruby cabochon weighing approximately 3.75 carats and measuring approximately 9.88mm centers this late Victorian ring. The center stone is held in a sculptur...
Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late Victorian Old Cut Diamond 18 Carat Yellow Gold Five-Stone Ring, c.1870s
Located in London, GB
Introducing a delicate Late Victorian five stone diamond ring, dating to the 1870s and finely crafted in rich 18 carat gold. The ring features five graduating old mine cut diamonds...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Style 18 Karat Rose Gold 1.65 Carat Old European Cut Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
Collet set Old European Cut diamond weighing 1.65 carats set in a blackened gold bezel and 18k rose gold shank. A mix of contemporary and antique, this is a charming ring. The diamon...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Werner Brothers Seed Pearl Solitaire Ring
Located in Denver, CO
A natural white seed pearl measuring approximately 2.9mm is held in a six prong buttercup setting (to resemble a flower) in this late Victorian-early Edwardian gem attributed to the ...
Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
14 Karat Yellow Gold High Polish Pinky/Toe Ring, Size 1 3/4
Located in Palm Desert, CA
This small, but unique ring is crafted in 14 karat yellow gold with a high polish finish and small milgram detailing around the ends of the band. Known as a midi, pinky, or toe ring,...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian GIA Certified 1.01 Carat Diamond Solitaire Ring
Located in Denver, CO
This late Victorian engagement ring showcases a GIA-certified 1.01 carat Old European-cut diamond, L color and SI1 clarity. The diamond is set within a buttercup mounting, a quintess...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Old Mine-Cut Diamond Solitaire Ring
Located in Denver, CO
This stunning Victorian era solitaire engagement ring features an Old Mine-cut center stone measuring approximately 1.10 carats, K-L color SI2 clarity, held in a six prong crown sett...
Diamond, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Opal, Diamond & Demantoid Garnet Cluster Ring, Circa 1900
Located in Altrincham, GB
This stunning late Victorian cluster ring is set with the most gorgeous combination of stones- opal, diamond and demantoid garnet. A fiery cluster of opal cabochons are set around a ...
Diamond, Garnet, Opal, 15k Gold
Antique 18K Yellow Gold Double Heart Diamond Ring.
Located in San Francisco, CA
This Vintage Double Heart Diamond Engagement Ring is just so sweet!! Crafted in 18K Yellow Gold in 1897, the ring features a pair of hear...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Old Cut Diamond Three-Stone Engagement Ring in 18K Gold and Platinum, c.1880s
Located in London, GB
Dating to the 1880s, this antique piece is full of history, with a lasting elegance that will be cherished for generations to come. A beautiful example of Late Victorian craftsmansh...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Antique 14k Yellow/White Gold 3 Stone Diamond Engagement Ring
Located in New York, NY
Discover the timeless elegance of our Antique Trinity Stone Engagement Ring, crafted in luxurious 14k two-tone yellow and white gold. This exquisite piece features three stunning old...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Engraved 1888 Sardonyx Intaglio Ring 14k Yellow Gold
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Antique Sardonyx intaglio ring with engraving on the underside of the head that reads "Engine co 20 to Lieut J.P. Dean Nov 2 '88" A very special...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Cabochon Emerald Ring with Striking White Diamond Surround
Located in London, GB
The oval cabochon emerald at the heart of this spectacular ring was hand-picked by a member of the Haruni family. Its intense green colour is accentua...
White Diamond, Emerald, Yellow Gold
Filigree Dome Ring 14 Karat Yellow Gold with 4.25mm Cognac Diamond, Size 9.25
Located in Palm Desert, CA
This beautifully detailed ring is crafted in 14 Karat Yellow gold. In the center of this ring in a six prong setting is a 4.25mm round Cognac Brown Diamond with SI1 clarity. This dia...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique English 18 Karat Yellow Gold Opal Five-Stone Ring
Located in New York, NY
Antique five stone opal ring with English hallmarks accented by rose cut diamonds set in 18k gold. The ring features nice matching white opals wit...
Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold
1900's Dutch Antique Pearl Rosecut Diamond Entourage Ring
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
Antique Dutch Rose-Cut Diamond Pearl Ring This original 19th-century Dutch ring features a beautiful hand-cut rose-cut diamonds, set in the classic silver over gold style of the pe...
Diamond, Cultured Pearl, 14k Gold
$2,000Sale Price|20% Off
Antique, Turquoise and Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
This gorgeous antique ring boasts an oval cabochon turquoise measuring approximately 8.80 x 7.10 x 4.96 mm, surrounded by 14 single cut diamonds weighing approximately 0.70 carat tot...
Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, White Gold
Antique Blue Sapphire and Old Cut Diamond 18ct Yellow Gold Five-Stone Ring
Located in London, GB
You can't help but fall in love with this magnificent Late Victorian blue sapphire and diamond five-stone ring. The fantastic piece features three old cut diamonds, with an approxim...
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
0.57 Carat Old Mine Cut Diamond 18 Carat Yellow Gold Gents Ring
Located in London, GB
A classic 18 carat yellow gold antique ring centred with a beautiful old mine cut diamond weighing 0.57ct, mounted in a raised eight claw, open back setting. Tested 18 carat gold. UK...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian 1.60 Ct Old Mine Diamond Trilogy Engagement Ring 18 KT/Silver
Located in Napoli, IT
Amazing Victorian late 1800 Diamond trilogy ring in a classy statement design of the era Hand crafted of solid 18 KT gold with Silver portions for the Dia...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Silver
Antique Carnelian Intaglio Signet Ring in Yellow Gold
Located in London, GB
An antique carnelian intaglio signet ring made in 9k yellow gold. A true piece of history, this exquisite ring features a beautifully carved carnelian intaglio stone set in a classi...
Carnelian, Yellow Gold
Cabochon Turquoise & Old Cut Diamond 18K Gold and Platinum Coronet Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
A truly charming and authentic late Victorian cluster ring, full of the romantic character that defines the finest pieces of the 1890s. At its centre sits a beautifully smooth turqu...
Diamond, White Diamond, Turquoise, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Victorian Gold Band, Anna Blair Sept. 28 ‘77, Size 6.5, Circa 1870s
Located in Upland, CA
About This Ring: Step into the world of sentimental jewelry with this classic Victorian gold band featuring a rich patina. This antique piece boasts a beautiful inscription that rea...
Gold
A Late Victorian Five Stone Diamond Ring
Located in London, GB
A late Victorian five stone diamond ring, the five old European-cut diamonds graduating from the centre and estimated to weigh 1.95 c...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,336Sale Price|20% Off
Yellow Sapphire And Diamond Ring in 18 kt Yellow Gold
By GEM PLAZA
Located in New York, NY
RING DISCRIPTION Ring in 18 kt gold studded with Yellow sapphire & Diamond. Accessorize your look with this elegant Yellow sapphire Ring. This stunning piece of jewelry instantly...
Diamond, Yellow Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian 18K Gold 6.00 Ct Pink Tourmaline Diamond Ring, Circa 1890
Located in Napoli, IT
Victorian Heritage This appealing Victorian ring is 1890/1900 ca hand crafted as unique of solid 18 Kt gold and silver potions Elegant, timeless, trilogy design to suit modern lifest...
Diamond, Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Silver
19th Century Dutch Sapphire and Rose Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in Riverdale, NY
Lovely Dutch Sapphire and Rose Diamond Cluster Ring from the 19th Century. Cluster design with natural navy sapphires with chunky rose diamond concentric pattern. Elaborate hand etch...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Important Yellow Sapphire and Diamond Cluster Brooch/Ring
Located in London, GB
An Important Victorian yellow sapphire and diamond brooch/ring, the natural sapphire weighing 31.58 carats, accompanied by GCS Re...
Diamond, Yellow Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
1.07 Carat Old Mine Cut Diamond Platinum Engagement Ring
Located in London, GB
Engagement ring featuring a lively Victorian old mine cut diamond weighing 1.07 carat set in a 6 claw, open back setting. The diamond is beautifully accompanied by 3 grain set eight ...
Diamond, Platinum
Late Victorian Floral 9 Carat Rose Gold Band
Located in Chipping Campden, GB
This beautifully decorative 9ct rose gold band features stunning floral style engraving. Made in Chester, England. Ring Size: O or 7 1/4 Band Width: 7mm Weight: 3.4g
Gold
Victorian Essex Crystal Yellow Gold Dog Cocktail Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
An impressive Essex crystal reverse intaglio and 9 karat yellow gold 'dog' cocktail ring; part of our diverse antique Victorian jewelry and estate jewelry collections. This fine and impressive antique Essex crystal ring...
Crystal, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Carved 1.25 Ct Five Stone Boat Ring 18 KT
Located in Napoli, IT
This Gorgeous late Victorian five stone ring is 1900 ca. Enchanting boat shape skilfully carved and pierced with scroll work made of solid 18 KT gold – marked Facing up with a gradu...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Antique 18 Karat Gold Ruby and Diamond Buckle Ring, Chester 1901
Located in Rotterdam, NL
An antique 18-karat gold buckle ring, hallmarked in Chester and dated 1901. The ring is designed in the form of a belt and buckle, with engraved foliate decoration extending around t...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold
Victorian Diamond Coronet Cluster Ring, circa 1890
Located in London, GB
Victorian diamond coronet cluster ring. Centrally set with a round old cut diamond, J colour, SI1 clarity with an approximate weight of 3.02 carat...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, Silver
Padparadschah Oval Sapphire Approximately 1.10 Carat, Diamond & 14 Karat Ring
Located in Berkeley, CA
This stunning French 'Turn of the Century' Ring is a beautiful light peach pink Padparadschah Sapphire surrounded by Platinum filigree set diamonds. The carat wight of the diamonds i...
Gold, 14k Gold, Platinum
Antique Old Cut Diamond 18 Carat Yellow Gold Five-Stone Ring, 1886
Located in London, GB
This wonderful antique Victorian ring is beautifully set with five old mine cut diamonds, weighing approximately 1.10ct combined, all grain set in 18 carat yellow gold open back sett...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Ruby and Diamond Ring
Located in London, GB
A Victorian ruby and diamond ring, to the centre a cushion-cut ruby estimated to weigh 0.65 carats, surrounded by four old European-cut...
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Gold, Silver