Art Nouveau (1890 to 1910)
The artistic flame of Art Nouveau burned brightly but all too briefly with the naturally curved pearl, the perfect accompaniment to this new free-flowing stylistic form. Exquisite brooches were crafted from glass and enamel into lilies, swans and dragonflies and set with precious stones and pearls. Delicate one-of-a-kind masterpieces were created by masters such as René Lalique whose skill and vision created not just jewellery but art. Clusters of pearls were also fashionable, appearing on brooches, earrings, necklaces and chokers. Unique Baroque pearls, highly prized for their asymmetry and natural form, were used in Art Nouveau pearl necklaces and pearl brooches by Liberty of London.
