Unisex Victorian

The end of Georgian jewelry came with the coronation of Queen Victoria in 1837. Just 18 when she took the throne, and over the next 64 years she became known for both her sense of fashion and for being beloved by her subjects.

The Victorian Era was a period of great transformation and prosperity for the British Empire, which is reflected in the grandiose styling of the earrings, necklaces, rings, and brooches of the day. Many of the styles reflect ancient motifs - a nod to the archeological excavations and treasures they unearthed which endlessly fascinated the public. Gothic and mourning jewelry came into vogue, in part because of Queen Victoria's somber reaction to the death of Prince Albert.

While Victorian England calls to mind images of frail, fainting women, stern men, and traditional values - it was an energetic time, rife with cultural change. The Museum's victorian jewelry collection reflects the creative energy from 1837 through 1901.