Edwardian elegance

Jewellery from the early twentieth century is among the most popular in McTear’s dedicated Jewellery Auctions. Some of the most recognisable motifs from the era include stars, florals, rosettes and quatrefoils. These designs feature in brooches and pendants as well as rarer to auction necklets. These desirable items feature a decorative section attached to a short chain in two places. One such item is lot 5, a pearl and diamond necklet from c.1900, estimate £350–550.

The fashion for particular shapes and designs in jewellery from this period is best identified and tracked using jewellery catalogues. These were printed documents with all of the designs by a certain jeweller for a given season. These catalogues were produced by jewellers from as early as the 18th century and feature drawn designs rather than photographic images of actual items. The catalogues were a selling tool used by jewellers either in their shop or in clients’ homes. Buyers could then select an item from one of these catalogues to buy or have made on request.

Click to view the jewellery catalogue >>

Sarah Fergusson

Dedicated auctions of jewellery are held every three weeks. Come along to the Valuation Days at McTear’s on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week for complimentary auction advice.