About

My name is Elizabeth, and I started this blog as a way of collecting and collating my reading on 19th century Daywear Jewellery.

This category of jewellery is rarely recognised or celebrated now, but used to form a vital part of men's and women's wardrobes. Consisting mostly of jewellery that did not include 'glittering stones' or highly polished metals, these pieces were often worn because they were rich in history and meaning, both personal and social.

I live in Melbourne, Australia, and I have worked with fine and antique jewellery, fine art, and decorative arts, in the auction and the retail world for nine years. I developed an interest in Day Jewellery after seeing so much of it so undervalued at auction. The workmanship, the materials, the 'richness of nature and art', made me want to understand the history of this jewellery.

Intaglios, cameos, pearls, metalwork, agate, opals and carnelians were all worn during the day, and I find them the most appropriate jewels for wearing to work now. I love finding new pieces made over a century ago that are still beautiful and elegant to wear.

Most of this blog will focus on this topic. Sometimes other parts of my life will sneak in. Please let me know what you think.

Thanks,

Elizabeth