Creating a jewelry collection is typically based on a specific aspect or category of jewelry. The collection can be built around a specific item, period, style, or maker, or can be highly specialized in a combination of these categories. It is really up to you and should be based on what you find yourself passionate about in the marketplace.
Many people start their collections with items from specific periods. Below is a timeline outlining the various periods and styles. A note about the timeline: not all the dates and terms are universally agreed upon by all people in the field; they are intended to be used as general guidelines when speaking of jewelry pertaining to a specific period or style.
Jewelry History Timeline
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Late Georgian Period
1760-1836
Victorian Period
1837-1901
• Romantic Period
1837-1860
• Grand Period
1860-1880
• Aesthetic Period
1880-1901
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Edwardian Period
(Belle Époque)
1900-1915
Art Nouveau Jewelry
1895-1915
Arts & Crafts Jewelry
1890- 1940
Art Deco Jewelry
1915-1940
Retro Jewelry
1940-1950
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Modernist Movement Jewelry
1940-1960