It's no coincidence that the most sought-after young woman offered in marriage in the Regency-era Netflix drama Bridgerton is referred to as the “diamond of the age”. The series, in many ways, shows a clear appreciation for jewels and their power in storytelling.
The first season's diamond, Daphne Bridgerton, often wore delicate pearl necklaces and earrings. Pearls have historically been associated with purity and virtue. They thus underscored her status as a desirable young lady and the epitome of innocence.
As the character matured and her narrative deepened, her jewels evolved. Reflecting her transition from a naive debutante to a woman with complex emotions and experiences.
The necklace pictured above ($75,000, Lang Antiques) is from the Edwardian period. About a century after Bridgerton's first season. But with its array of natural saltwater pearls and a drop of nearly 9mm pearls - plus 9.8 carats of diamonds - it recalls Daphne's jewels.
Below, we present other pieces similar to those worn by Bridgerton's characters and examine their significance.
Penelope Featherington's engagement ring from Colin Bridgerton looked almost identical to the one Daphne received from Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, representing a woman coming into her own. His floral pattern could also be a nod to Penelope's reputation as a wallflower throughout the series.
In contrast, the rest of the cunning Featherington family uses jewellery to illustrate their ambitions and flamboyant personalities. Their flashy, colourful ornaments reflect their desire to climb the social ladder, often verging on ostentation.
And then there is jewelry that makes a unique look. Like the pocket watch Colin Bridgerton gives his mother, Violet, in Season 3. Her late husband, Edmund, always brought a watch, and this gift seems to represent how time stood still for Violet after his sudden death - and perhaps hints at how that will change for her as she experiences love again later in the season.
As with the secrecy and whispers throughout the range, the jewellery at Bridgerton is more than meets the eye - if you look closely enough!
Source: jckonline.com
