Sapphire stories
When we think of sapphires, the first image that usually comes to mind is a velvety blue. Yet these gemstones occur in a glorious spectrum of colours, giving antique sapphire jewellery variety and individuality. Sapphires belong to the corundum family. Trace elements create their different shades. Blue remains the most familiar, ranging from pale cornflower […]
Forgotten Gems of Antique Jewellery
Diamonds, rubies and sapphires may dominate today’s jewellery designs, but some gemstones have since slipped from fashion, making their appearance in older jewellery all the more fascinating. Chrysoberyl was particularly popular during the Georgian and Victorian periods. Usually golden yellow or green, it has a bright sparkle and was often set in rings, brooches and […]
Vermeil – the art of gilding silver
Vermeil jewellery became popular in Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian eras because it offered the warm, luxurious appearance of gold while using silver as its precious metal base. The technique was particularly well suited to the ornate designs of the time, where the rich gold finish enhanced intricate engraving, filigree and decorative motifs. It was also […]
Symbolism in Victorian jewellery
The Victorians had a remarkable fascination with the natural world, and nowhere is this more beautifully reflected than in their jewellery. During the 19th century, insects such as bees, butterflies, dragonflies, beetles and spiders became highly fashionable decorative motifs. Not only were they incredibly delicate, they were also highly symbolic. You might know that […]
Ruby vs Garnet
At first glance, rubies and garnets can look remarkably alike. Their rich red hues have been set in jewellery for centuries, yet these beautiful gemstones each have their own fascinating history and unique appeal. Rubies, the birthstone for July, have long been regarded as one of the world’s most precious gemstones. A variety of the […]
Tokens of friendship
With Best Friends Day taking place on 8th June, it’s fascinating to look back at the meaningful gifts exchanged during the Georgian and Victorian eras to symbolise friendship, affection and loyalty. Long before instant messages and social media, jewellery and small treasured keepsakes were often used to express heartfelt emotions between close friends. During the […]
Pearl perfection
Unlike other gems, pearls, the birthstone for June, are formed naturally within molluscs, giving them a soft lustre and unique beauty that has captivated collectors and jewellery lovers throughout history. Natural pearls are the rarest and most valuable, formed entirely without human intervention, and they were highly prized in Georgian and Victorian jewellery. Today, most […]
The rise of Men’s Antique Jewellery
Men’s antique jewellery has seen a quiet resurgence in recent years, as more men are actively seeking pieces with character, history and individuality. Moving beyond the simplicity of modern accessories and mass brands, antique jewellery offers craftsmanship and detail that is rarely replicated today — making it both stylish and highly collectible. Signet rings remain […]
Andrew Grima – Jewellery Pioneer
One of my favourite jewellery designers of the 20th-century is Andrew Grima. You may not have heard of him but he is described as a pioneer of modern jewellery. He transformed traditional expectations, introducing bold, sculptural pieces that blurred the line between jewellery and wearable art. Born in Rome in 1921 and raised in England, […]
Watches of worth
As an antique jeweller, I’ve had the privilege of valuing and selling many antique watches and totally understand the appeal for collectors and investors alike. They offer a blend of craftsmanship, history and enduring style. From elegant pocket watches of the 19th century to early wristwatches of the 20th, these timepieces tell stories that extend […]