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Vintage, Victorian-era jewelry was made during Queen Victoria's reign, in the
mid-1830's through the end of the 19th century. Historians often break Victorian
jewelry into three periods: Early Romantic (mid 1830's - 1850), Mid Grand
(1860's - 1870's), and Late Aesthetic (mid 1880's - 1900). Many early-era
Victorian rings featured elaborate settings. The composition of wedding and
engagement rings changed from early to late Victorian era. Before opening of the
South African diamond mines around 1870, diamonds were scarce and expensive.
Tiny stones were used to accent larger, colorful gemstones. With increased
availability of diamonds came a wider variety of styles, often mixing large
diamonds and other gemstones, such as sapphires and rubies.
The Old Mine cut (sometimes called Old Miners or simply Mine) is
characteristic of the era. It is a multi-faceted brilliant cut, designed to most
effectively reflect light. The Mine differs from the modern brilliant cut in
shape, proportion, and other detail. The serpent is also characteristic of
Victorian engagement rings. Snakes were said to symbolize eternity and to bring
good luck, so were a natural symbol of engagement. This design was especially
popular because Queen Victoria wore a
serpent engagement ring.
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