By the end of the 19th century, jewellery designers were moving away from the revival styles that dominated the late Victorian period and embracing the Art Nouveau. This aesthetic was inspired by nature, featuring flowing lines and light coloured gemstones and enamel. Mürrle Bennett & Co. was one of the first firms to bring this new style of jewellery to Britain, inspired by Continental taste and manufacturing and importing much of their work from Pforzheim in Germany.

Victorian pendants come in a wonderful variety of forms, from sentimental heart lockets to richly coloured gemstone and enamel designs. Spanning Queen Victoria’s reign from 1837 to 1901, the period saw major changes in how jewellery was made and worn. New sources of gemstones, advances in manufacturing and a growing fascination with the wider world introduced new materials, motifs and styles, while jewellery remained deeply personal and rich in symbolism.

Albert chains are named after the style of watch chain worn by Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, during the Victorian period. Traditionally, one end featured a T-bar that passed through a waistcoat buttonhole, while the other was fitted with a swivel clasp to secure a pocket watch. The watch would have been kept in a vest pocket with the chain displayed and the chain would have also sometimes suspended a decorative fob.

Jewellery played a central role in Victorian celebrations. Exchanged beside the tree or worn at winter gatherings, it allowed Victorians to express both emotional sentiment and personal style. Christmas as we know it today is in many ways a Victorian invention. The 19th century transformed the festive season, introducing many beloved Christmas traditions, including Christmas trees, mistletoe and Christmas pudding.

As winter settles in, the December birthstones, turquoise and zircon, bring cool shades of sparkle to the season. Their beautiful blues and greens evoke frosted landscapes and the shimmer of festive lights, making them the perfect gems to wear in the festive season.

The question we’re asked more than any other is 'how do I keep my jewellery clean'? It’s simpler than you might think. With a few professional tricks of the trade, you can keep your jewels looking their very best.

Opal is the enchanting and iridescent gemstone celebrated as the birthstone for October. At Thomas Glover, we are delighted to present a curated selection of antique opal jewellery, each piece capturing the mesmerising play of colour that defines this gem.