Jewelry Through the Ages

Jewelry Through the Ages

At Petra Star, we specialize in antique and estate jewelry spanning some of the most beautiful and distinctive periods in history. Each era brought its own aesthetic, materials, and craftsmanship — and we love helping you discover the story behind every piece.

Victorian (1837–1901)

Named after Queen Victoria, this era is known for its romanticism, sentimentality, and use of gold, gemstones, and mourning jewelry. Motifs include hearts, serpents, flowers, and hands.

Edwardian (1901–1915)

Characterized by delicate, lacy designs made possible by platinum and the use of diamonds and pearls. Edwardian jewelry is elegant, light, and incredibly refined.

Art Nouveau (1890–1910)

A celebration of nature and the female form, Art Nouveau jewelry features flowing lines, enamel work, and motifs like dragonflies, flowers, and mythical figures.

Art Deco (1920–1935)

Bold, geometric, and glamorous — Art Deco jewelry reflects the energy of the Roaring Twenties with strong lines, contrasting colors, and a love of platinum and diamonds.

Retro (1935–1950)

Influenced by Hollywood glamour and wartime material constraints, Retro jewelry features large, bold designs in yellow and rose gold with colorful gemstones.

Mid-Century Modern (1950s–1960s)

Optimistic and forward-looking, this era embraced abstract forms, new materials, and a departure from traditional jewelry conventions.

Collections for each period coming soon. In the meantime, browse all our jewelry or contact us to find a piece from a specific era.