How to describe Moira? It is difficult to convey the intense enthusiasm and passion for her business and the world of antique jewellery that was the essence of Moira. Her capacity for hard work, her energy and discipline were the cornerstone of founding and building her business. Having established her original shop on New Bond […]
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Those born in June have three radiant birthstones: alexandrite, pearls and moonstones. All three are somewhat linked by their relationships with light: alexandrite changes colour when viewed in different lighting conditions, pearls have their characteristic lustre and moonstones boast an almost mystical shimmer that bounces across cut stones. All three gems have an important place […]
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Earrings have been worn for thousands of years, not simply for adornment but to bestow meaning, status, and power. Antique drop earrings from the 17th to the 20th centuries are some of the most universally beloved, thanks in part to their sparkling diamonds, coloured gemstones and feminine forms. Here, we delve into the history of […]
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Jewellery designers have long looked to the night sky for inspiration. Stars and crescents have been popular motifs since the 17th century with women of the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian eras adding diamond starbursts and crescent jewels to their collections. Here, we delve into the sparkling history of antique star jewellery and crescent moon jewellery. […]
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The History of Brooches The evolution of the brooch is fascinating. Over many centuries it has transformed from a purely functional item into the bright, bold and beautiful statement pieces of today. In fact, the trending brooches of each era offer a wonderful glimpse into the fashions and lives of previous generations. The earliest known […]
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Aquamarine is the birthstone for the month of March. The seawater colour of aquamarine has given this gemstone its name. “Aquamarine” is derived from the Latin word for seawater. A pair of aquamarine and diamond drop earrings, set with a pear-cut aquamarine, with a total weight of 1.50ct, in a decorative, round brilliant-cut diamond surround, […]
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The history of cufflinks is intimately related to the history of the shirt. Cufflinks are the ultimate fashion accessory and the perfect gift for a man. A pair of French, Art Nouveau, brown diamond set, yellow gold floral cufflinks, circa 1890, for Maison G. Desbazeille, with French eagle head marks for 18ct gold and maker’s mark […]
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How and why snakes became a recognisable motif in jewellery designs, from Bulgari to Cartier A Victorian snake bangle, set with diamonds and rubies, embellished with red guilloche enamel. Circa 1860. You may have noticed that snakes appear frequently in the jewellery world; coiled around themselves to form a bangle or bracelet; two snakes entwined […]
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Amethyst is the birthstone for February. It derives from the Greek amethystos, which means “a remedy against drunkenness.” The gemstone is believed by ancient Greeks and Romans to ward off the intoxicating powers of Bacchus, also was said to keep the wearer clear-headed and quick-wittedin battle and business affairs. A Victorian amethyst rivière necklace cross pendant, […]
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Garnet, the beautiful and diverse birthstone for January, comes in many different colours. The most popular is the deep red coloured variety. Named from the Latin ‘granatum’ meaning “seed” referring to its resemblance to the pomegranate seed, this stone is deep and rich in tone. A Holbeinesque style Victorian pendant and earrings suite, set […]
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