Victorian Jewelry Gemstones & Metals | Easy Guide

Victorian jewelers used materials that were available at the time, and many of them are still loved today.

Gold was the most common metal. Yellow gold was especially popular, often warm in color and rich in tone. Rose gold also became fashionable later in the era. Silver was used as well, especially for diamond jewelry.

Platinum was not commonly used yet, so most Victorian pieces rely on gold and silver rather than modern metals.

Gemstones played a major role in Victorian jewelry. Diamonds were popular, especially old‑cut diamonds that sparkle softly rather than sharply. Garnets were widely used and often appear in deep red clusters. Opals were loved for their dreamy colors, and pearls symbolized purity.

Other stones included turquoise, amethyst, moonstone, and jet. Jet, a black organic material, was often used in mourning jewelry.

Victorian gemstones were chosen not just for beauty, but for meaning.