BELLE ÉPOCHE

(1880-1914)
Belle Époque platinum and diamond filigree brooch
Art Déco Era platinum & diamond brooch

​Belle Époque literally translates to beautiful era, which perfectly describes the lavish jewelry created during this period.

Belle Époche Jewelry Information

Late Belle Époque / early Art Déco platinum, asscher cut diamond and old European cut diamond ring
Early Art Déco Era platinum & asscher cut diamond three-stone ring

​The Belle Époque lasted from 1880 until the beginning of World War I, in 1914.

Belle Époque jewelry is known for its platinum, diamond and pearl monochromatic combinations.


METALS COMMONLY USED

• Platinum


METALWORKING TECHNIQUES

• Filigree
• Millegrain

Platinum was the metal of choice, often displaying wonderful filigree work and millegrain detailing.


TYPES OF JEWELRY WORN

• Brooches
• Hair Brooches
• Necklaces (Dog Collars, Chokers, Lavaliers & Sautoirs)
• Screw Back Earrings

Dog collar choker necklaces were made popular by Queen Victoria's daughter-in-law, Alexandra.


GEMS COMMONLY USED

• Diamonds
• Pearls

In 1902, Tatsuhei Mise began implanting thousands of mollusks with beads.  By 1907, he received the first ever Japanese patent for a cultured pearl.

Diamonds in Belle Époque jewelry were fashioned into old European cuts and old mine cuts.


COMMON MOTIFS

• Bows, Ribbons & Scrolls
• Crescent Moon & Stars
• Flowers

Airy and lacy filigree designs were popular during the Belle Époque.
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Belle Époche Jewelry Gallery


​All photos courtesy of Scott Papper, GIA GG, AJP, CMA (NAJA)

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