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 Edwardian The Edwardian Period dated from 1901 to 1910, with the use of platinum and diamonds being prevelent during this era. This was the reign of King Edward VIII, son of Queen Victoria. The Edwardian Period was between two great periods, Art Nouveau and Art Deco. The begining of the century was still Art Nouveau. While much of the Art Nouveau jewelry concentrated on design, firms like Tiffany and Cartier were concentrating on diamond cutting, quality and appearance. Edwardian jewelry was worn by the socialites of this era. Much of the period jewelry had similar characteristics and Edwardian jewelry was no exception. The diamonds of this period were made to look fine and delicate to match the look and appeal of the Edwardian lady. Diamonds were a very important part of an Edwardian jewelry, with many of these pieces being among the finest pieces of jewelry ever made.
Much of the jewelry designed during this period was expensive and very elaborate. The star setting became very popular during this period, along with half hoop bangle bracelets set with pearls, diamonds, and colored stones, bar brooches, snake bracelets, and gold chain bracelets set with turquoise and pearls. It is known that much of the jewelry was produced late in the Victorian period, although it is recognized as being Edwardian. The Edwardian period ended with the emerging World War I, and the open display of wealth was now brought to an end. The Edwardian period was now over and would never be recaptured.
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Art Deco
Edwardian
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The strongest influence on Edwardian
jewelry was the amazing progress made in diamond and gem stone cutting.
Some other design traits of Edwardian
jewelry were the extensive use of platinum. Invisible settings of
platinum showed and flattered the brilliance and whiteness of diamonds. A
popluar setting during this period was Millgrained which required that a
thin bead of metal secure the stone, and it would
be textured and ridged with tiny grains or beads. This effect created an
extremely fine rim around the diamond. With the strength of platinum,
many designers carefully produced pieces that were
extremely lightweight and thin, and were masterpieces of engineering. An
unmistakable Edwardian design trait was the use of open work designs and scalloped patterned edges that
gave the illusion of fine hand-made lace. 
