Remembering the Titanic Through Edwardian Jewelry

The world will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the RMS Titanic on April 15, 2012. Interest in the Titanic has grown this year with the commemoration of the sinking and a new release of the Oscar-winning 1997 movie. The Edwardian Period encompassed the rule of Edward VII of England, whose reign began with the death of his mother, Queen Victoria, in 1901 and ended with his death in 1910. Historians often extend the Edwardian period to the sinking of the Titanic and even to the end of World War I in 1918. King Edward VII and his wife Alexandra were known for their high style, influenced by their travels throughout Europe and to India.

Platinum and Diamonds and Pearls

New technologies made the use of platinum and finer cutting of gemstones possible during the Edwardian period. Platinum resists tarnishing and makes a particularly good setting for diamonds. Jewelry of the Edwardian period reflected the delicate lace that was popular in clothing of the time. Intricate and light filigrees were prominent in rings, necklaces, and brooches of the era. Pearls were also in fashion, mostly among the wealthy.

Necklaces

King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra's influence in fashion extended to the jewelry of the time. Edward's favorite stone was the peridot, while Alexandra's was the amethyst. Those stones frequently show up in Edwardian jewelry. Women's eveningwear featured low-cut necklines, which were perfect for showcasing pendants. The Heart of the Ocean necklace from the movie Titanic, with its blue diamond pendant surrounded by smaller white diamonds, was the type of necklace that would have been popular in the Edwardian era. The movie was originally released 15 years ago, but reproductions of the Heart of the Ocean are still available. Queen Alexandra popularized chokers and wore them with other necklaces.

Brooches and Other Accessories

Edwardian women wore brooches, tiaras, bracelets and other accessories along with necklaces and rings. Women often wore multiples pieces of jewelry at once, a sign of the opulence of the time. That look would be considered over the top today, but one or two pieces of Edwardian-style jewelry would lend elegance to any contemporary outfit.

Antiques and Reproductions

Jewelry dating from the Edwardian period is available from auction houses and jewelers who specialize in vintage pieces. Prices for both antique and reproduction Edwardian style jewelry are still reasonable, although the most ornate pieces dating from the period may command thousands of dollars. Reproductions are usually cheaper than vintage jewelry, but still look elegant. Whether reproduction or antique, Edwardian jewelry's ornate and feminine styles make a titanic fashion statement.