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Retro jewellery, also known as cocktail jewellery, is a term encompassing the jewellery created in the period between the late 1930s and the 1940s.

For over a century, wristwatches for women have combined beauty and functionality in one exquisite piece, reaching their zenith in the decorative, often bejewelled cocktail watch. A delicate, glamourous version of the women’s wristwatch, cocktail watches rose to prominence during the roaring twenties and have since fluctuated in popularity.

Worn by women and men for millennia, earrings effortlessly display the dispersion and brilliance of coloured gemstones. But how did we arrive at the point where people were compelled to pierce their ears?

Man has always rubbed shoulders with beasts, and history echoes humanity’s affinity with the animal kingdom through its works of art and design. In ancient times, before the invention of the written word, animal symbolism was crucial for survival, but as literacy and folklore developed, humans ascribed deeper meaning to the animal form. A bear, for example, was no longer merely deemed a threat but a being embodying human traits, such as valour and strength. Meanwhile, serpent rings came to symbolise eternity and loyalty.

Eye miniatures, more popularly known as lover’s eye jewellery, cropped up across Britain and Europe in the late 18^th century. Lover’s eye pieces were popular amongst couples for around half a century, before disappearing almost entirely.

In our piece exploring how ancient jewellery influenced modern pieces, we discussed how Ancient Egyptian jewellery shaped western creations. Jewellery has been around for hundreds of thousands of years, since the first simple pieces made from bones and seashells, through to the more ornate modern pieces we see today.

Raymond Templier, the minimal, geometric jeweller with a penchant for Cubism, made a significant contribution to the Art Deco movement of the early twentieth century. This article chronicles his life, achievements, and iconic geometric jewellery style that inspired a generation.

Whilst the vintage diamond engagement ring remains a timeless classic, increasing numbers of brides-to-be are choosing alternative gemstone engagement rings to express themselves and accentuate their style.

When royalty comes to mind, you can’t help but think of jewellery. Crowns are synonymous with the monarchy, as are golden thrones and diamond-encrusted sceptres. The British monarchy is one of the oldest in the world, and definitely the most famous, giving them plenty of time to acquire a jewellery collection one could only dream of.

In the immortal words of Ms Monroe herself, “Talk to me Harry Winston, tell me all about it!”