Spring is finally here and Berganza has an entire antique and vintage jewellery selection dedicated to nature inspired designs and the glorious sunshine. The array features antique and vintage rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces and brooches in classic platinum and timeless yellow gold, complimented with natural gemstones in a palette of Spring colours, which can be shown off now that the weather is warmer.
The theme of nature has always been prevalent in jewellery, whether as the obvious central focal point of the piece of jewellery or as a subtle side embellishment. Nature was a particularly desired theme during several time periods, particularly the Early Victorian, Art Nouveau and Edwardian periods.
The Early Victorian period (1837-1860) was influenced by the Queen's blossoming romance with her consort Prince Albert. The romanticised ideal of the natural world inspired the jewellery of this time. The phenomenon of floriography (the study of flower meanings) was all the rage with every single flower or plant having a hidden secret meaning or message, so when incorporated into jewellery, a floral or foliate motif was not only beautiful but conveyed a message.
The signature theme throughout the Art Nouveau period from 1890 to 1910 was the free-flowing line. There was a focus on nature and its associations with femininity and fertility. Favourite subjects included nature in all its forms, particularly the soft and flowing lines of female figures, weaving plant stems, flowers, insects, snakes and animals. Designs were sensuous, highly decorative, asymmetrical and were designed to enhance feminine beauty. While the Edwardian period, famous for being the ‘pretty' period, shows off a delicate and refined leafy ‘garland' style of jewellery in gossamer like lacy designs, often all in platinum.
Fancy adding a nature inspired piece of jewellery to your jewellery box this Spring? Look no further than Berganza's extensive collection, all available to view online or in our shop.
