Overlapping the Art Nouveau era and keeping to the tradition of being named after the current monarch, the Edwardian Era was known for the new “royalty” that emerged – based on wealth and personal success rather than lineage or heritage. 

The Edwardian Era was known for advancements in society, consistent with the economic growth and development of the Late 19th-Early 20th Century. With industrialization at its peak, King Edward helped push societal reforms, meaning members of serfdom could finally grow their wealth and success and women could participate politically and economically. The newfound middle class in Great Britain continued their unprecedented growth, and thus the jewelry of the era was more accessible to the public, leading to the emergence of timeless designs.

Platinum and diamonds became the standard for fine jewelry and this new, burgeoning middle class was enamored with these designs, which are a foundation of modern jewelry design to this day. Symmetrical, white-clad jewels set in 18K White Gold or platinum and adorned by diamonds became the defining style of the era.

While not as revered as the Art Deco Era, the Edwardian Era set the foundation for the global explosion of fine jewelry culture.