Diamonds and Gemstones

History
The Victorian Era
Refers to the period of British history during Queen Victoria's reign, from 1837 to 1901, characterized by industrial progress, strict social morals, expanding empire, and distinctive cultural, architectural, and literary styles.
Person
Empress Dowager Cixi
A powerful and influential ruler of late Qing-dynasty China who effectively controlled the Chinese government from 1861 to 1908, shaping politics, court culture, and foreign policy during a period of major internal and external challenges.
Technique
Milgrain
A jewelry technique that creates a fine, beaded edge along metal surfaces, adding delicate texture and a vintage, handcrafted look.
Technique
Filigree
A decorative jewelry technique in which thin wires of precious metal are twisted, curled, and soldered together to form intricate lace-like patterns.
En tremblant
A jewelry technique in which parts of the piece are mounted on tiny springs or wires, allowing them to quiver gently with movement and create a lifelike, shimmering effect. Traditionally used in floral brooches and tiaras, it adds a sense of animation and delicate naturalism to the design.
Technique
Cabochon
A gemstone cut with a smooth, rounded, polished surface and no facets, usually featuring a domed top and a flat or slightly curved base. This traditional style highlights a stone’s color, clarity, and inner glow rather than brilliance.
Cuts
Rose-cut style
A style features gemstones shaped with a flat base and a domed top covered in triangular facets, creating a soft, glowing sparkle reminiscent of an opening rosebud.
Pavé-set
A setting technique in which many small, closely spaced gemstones are secured with tiny beads or prongs of metal cut directly from the surface, creating a continuous, “paved” field of sparkle.
Joséphine de Beauharnais
The first wife of Napoleon Bonaparte and the first Empress of the French. Known for her elegance, influence in courtly fashion, and patronage of the arts, she became an enduring symbol of refined imperial style.
Epochs
Art Deco
A style of visual arts, architecture, and product design that flourished internationally during the 1920s to early 1930s. The name Art Deco came into use after the 1925 Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes (International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts) held in Paris.