Georgian rings originate from the period between 1714 and 1837, which was named after the Hanoverian Kings: George I, George II, George III and George IV. This period was strongly influenced by the classical architecture of Greece and Rome, which translated into the symmetrical and proportional elements of Georgian rings and jewellery.
Most commonly, Georgian rings would be crafted from gold, with any diamonds set in silver, enhancing their brightness. Georgian diamond rings were most often worn at the candlelit dinner parties of the aristocracy. Georgian diamond rings in a cluster style were particularly popular, thanks to the ornate design and abundance of gemstones.
“Keeper” rings were also prevalent in the Georgian period, usually consisting of gold, and sometimes set with gemstones. These were designed to help keep rings with larger gemstones, such as Georgian style engagement rings, on the finger. “Keeper” rings are considered as an early example of the eternity band.
Memorial rings were also admired in the Georgian period. These rings often featured burial urns, elaborate enamel work and were sometimes also set with gemstones. The design of these Georgian rings could signify the experience of the mourner, for example, some rings contained pearls, which represented tears.
Georgian rings are famously known to be love tokens, and their romance and beauty make them a delight to wear, as well as being a significant piece of social history. It is rare to find exceptional examples of Georgian rings, as only the highest members of society could afford such pieces. Here at Berganza, we are very privileged to have a collection of exquisite Georgian rings, as well as Georgian engagement rings.
FAQs
Georgian rings were crafted in the Georgian era, between 1714 and 1837. Only the highest members of society could afford to wear such extravagant jewellery. Our collection of Georgian rings is extremely rare, as it is very difficult to find pieces from the period which remain in immaculate condition. A key aspect of Georgian rings are the ornate metalwork designs, often featuring elaborate gemstones. Georgian diamond rings were particularly popular, even though social convention dictated that they were only to be worn by married ladies in the evening! Georgian jewellery itself, and particularly Georgian rings, were quite decorative in their style, with flowers and birds being motifs seen quite often. This gesture to femininity and romance continue to make this style especially popular as engagement rings, creating timeless and beautiful pieces of jewellery.
Georgian rings feature a myriad of designs. Most commonly, rings from this period were crafted in gold, with gemstones set in silver. The cluster design was especially popular in Georgian rings, often featuring diamonds and carved shoulders and shanks. Another popular type of Georgian ring is the “keeper” ring, used to stop a larger ring from slipping off the finger. Traditionally made of gold or gold set with gemstones, these Georgian rings became a firm favourite amongst the highest members of society. Giardinetti rings, meaning “little garden” in Italian, are the epitome of the feminine feel that is so common in Georgian rings. The unique design of these beautiful rings consists of a rainbow of gemstones fashioned into a bouquet of flowers. Usually exchanged as love tokens, these Georgian rings were gifted to friends or between couples. Hearts were another popular motif in the creation of Georgian rings, and can often be seen with two gemstones making up either half of the heart. Georgian engagement rings and Georgian diamond rings are still in high demand today. Discover the Georgian rings in our collection for examples of these wonderful designs.
When you care for your Georgian rings properly, they can be enjoyed by generations to come, so it is important that you clean them with care. Many antique jewellers do offer cleaning services, but it is also quite simple to clean them yourself at home. As many Georgian rings have closed back settings, we do not recommend using water to clean these pieces, as it could dull their sparkle. Instead, use a soft dry cloth to gently wipe the gemstones and remove any dust.
Visiting a certified jeweller is the most effective way to identify whether a Georgian ring is authentic. When you purchase a Georgian engagement ring from Berganza, we provide a valuation for insurance, a legal document stating that this is an original Georgian ring.
A popular gemstone for Georgian rings were diamonds. Georgian diamond rings were usually crafted from gold, with silver settings to enhance the vibrancy of the diamond. A cluster style was particularly popular for Georgian diamond rings, creating elaborate and beautiful designs. The elegance of this design has ensured Georgian engagement rings remain popular today. Alongside the admired Georgian diamond rings, colourful gemstones were also used across the Georgian period. Ruby, amethyst, emerald and pearl were all popular, particularly when paired with diamonds in a cluster design. These rings have much charm and character and their timeless quality ensures they have stood the test of time, remaining sought after today.
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