Tag

antique engagement ring

14/11/2025
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Preparing for the Perfect Engagement!

Planning the perfect proposal is one of life’s most exciting chapters. Whether you’re dreaming of a cosy moment for two, or a beautifully simple declaration of love, thoughtful planning can make your engagement truly unforgettable. And at the heart of it all? The engagement ring. Here at Cavendish Jewellers in York, we specialise in antique and vintage engagement rings, carefully curated for couples seeking something meaningful, unique, and full of character. So if you’re preparing to propose or are dropping hints to your significant other, here’s your complete guide to... Read More

Edwardian jewellery 02/06/2025

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO EDWARDIAN JEWELLERY

The Edwardian era, spanning from 1901 to 1910, is often remembered as a time of transition. Marked by the passing of Queen Victoria and the ascension of her son, King Edward VII, it was an age of leisure, luxury, and refinement. The Edwardian period sat between the height of Victorian triumph and the turbulence of the coming Great War, a time when the British Empire was at its peak, and the sun never set on its vast territories. With King Edward VII at the helm, a new era of fashion... Read More

The Ultimate Guide to Victorian Jewellery 26/05/2025

The Ultimate Guide to Victorian Jewellery

Victorian jewellery is more than just adornment; it’s a window into an era rich with emotion, artistry, and symbolism. Spanning Queen Victoria’s reign from 1837 to 1901, this period saw profound social and cultural transformation. The sheer length of her reign meant that tastes and styles evolved significantly, shaped not only by shifting artistic movements, but also by deeply personal events in the monarch’s life. Most notably, the death of Prince Albert in 1861 plunged the Queen into a lifelong mourning period, deeply influencing jewellery trends across the empire. Cavendish... Read More

Something Old Something Blue 22/05/2025
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‘Something Old, Something Blue’

Weddings are steeped in rich traditions, each carrying its own symbolism and charm. One such enduring custom is the “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue” rhyme, a delightful way to weave meaningful elements into your special day. The Origins of the Tradition This age-old rhyme dates back to Victorian England, where it was believed that incorporating these items into your wedding attire would bring good luck and happiness to the bride. Each element holds its own significance. Vogue The colour blue, in particular, has been associated with weddings... Read More

A Guide to Diamond shapes and Cuts 12/05/2025
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A GUIDE TO DIAMOND SHAPES & CUTS

Choosing the Perfect Diamond Cut For those of you thinking about popping the question, first of all, congratulations! It’s natural to feel a little overwhelmed by the process of choosing something as special as an engagement ring – between all the different shapes, sizes, styles, and settings, where do you even begin? One of the most important (and fun) parts of engagement ring shopping is learning about diamond cuts, especially if you’re drawn to antique rings and want a piece of history wrapped around your finger. The cut of a... Read More

How are diamonds formed? 06/05/2025
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HOW ARE DIAMONDS FORMED?

From Earth’s Depths to Dazzling Masterpieces Among the treasures in our collection, diamonds hold a particularly powerful mystique. Their brilliance captures attention, but their origin is even more fascinating. Have you ever wondered how these extraordinary gems came to be? Let us take you on a journey – one that began over a billion years ago, deep beneath the Earth’s surface. Forged in Fire: The Birth of a Diamond Diamonds are formed under extreme pressure and heat, more than 100 miles below the Earth’s crust. Here, carbon atoms, the building... Read More

May birthstone emerald 01/05/2025
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MAY’S BIRTHSTONE

Emerald, The Green Queen May’s birthstone, the emerald, is a gemstone that exudes elegance, luxury, and timeless beauty. Known for its vibrant green colour, the emerald has long been cherished for its rich history; plundered from the Incas by Spanish conquistadors, it quickly became popular across the old world adorning royalty from the the most Western kingdoms of Europe to the most Easterly empires of Asia. As we celebrate May birthdays, there’s no better way to honour this precious birthstone than to explore its stunning allure and the many ways... Read More

Art Nouveau Jewellery 28/04/2025

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ART NOUVEAU JEWELLERY

If you’re a fan of intricate craftsmanship, nature-inspired designs, and timeless beauty, then Art Nouveau jewellery might just be the style for you. With its flowing lines, organic shapes, and striking use of materials, Art Nouveau jewellery remains one of the most beloved and distinctive design movements in history. Whether you’re an aspiring collector, a jewellery enthusiast, or someone simply intrigued by this stunning aesthetic, this ultimate guide will walk you through the history, characteristics, and key elements of Art Nouveau jewellery. What is Art Nouveau? Art Nouveau, which translates... Read More

Art Deco jewellery 14/04/2025

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ART DECO JEWELLERY

Art Deco jewellery is a timeless symbol of elegance, sophistication, and modernity, drawing from a rich design movement that dominated the 1920s and early 1930s. Known for its bold geometric shapes, luxurious materials, and impeccable craftsmanship, Art Deco jewellery continues to captivate collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike, standing as a reminder of an era when opulence and innovation were at the forefront of design. Dive into our ultimate guide for a glimpse into one of the most glamorous eras in history. What is Art Deco? Art Deco, short for “Arts... Read More