Edwardian Bow Pendant
An Edwardian bow pendant is a delicate ribbon-tied jewel from the early twentieth century, sought after for its graceful proportions and fine craftsmanship.
Edwardian Bow Pendant
An edwardian bow pendant takes the form of a tied ribbon executed in precious metals and gemstones, frequently suspending a drop or locket. You will most commonly encounter pieces originating from the Edwardian period, often utilising platinum, silver, and gold alongside diamonds, paste glass, and pearls.
Many examples double as brooches, featuring integrated pins and suspension loops that allow them to be worn interchangeably on a chain or fastened to clothing. The designs range from airy diamond-set platinum filigree to colourful gold and paste arrangements incorporating garnet, tourmaline, or sapphire.
How they were made
The construction relies heavily on the combination of platinum and gold, where platinum was worked into delicate, knife-edge wire settings to hold diamonds securely while hiding the metal. Silver gilt and sterling silver also appear frequently, often backing stones to enhance their brilliance or paired with 18ct white and yellow gold components.
Gemstones such as old-cut diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and seed pearls are grain-set or bezel-set into the ribbon loops. Paste glass is skilfully utilised as a high-grade substitute, hand-cut to mimic genuine stones and mounted in silver settings.
Edwardian Bow Pendant Retail Price Guide 2026
Typical asking prices for edwardian bow pendant among the pieces listed under this phrase on Sellingantiques today, from the lower quarter to the upper quarter. They describe what is for sale here now, not the wider market.
Some bows come with tiny dog clasps ready to hold your extra charms.
What varies in quality
The standard of an edwardian bow pendant rests on the crispness of the metalwork and the integration of the stones. Pieces fabricated in platinum exhibit finer, more intricate piercing and lighter mounts than those cast solely in heavier yellow gold.
The selection of materials dictates the tier of the piece, moving from paste glass and silver gilt up to natural pearls, rubies, and substantial old-cut diamonds. Original boxes and convertible brooch-pendant mechanisms also separate standard workshop output from exceptional examples.
Eduard Foehr
The Edwardian Bow Pendant Glossary
- Paste glass
- Hand-cut lead glass used to imitate precious gemstones. It was polished and foiled to catch the light much like a genuine diamond or coloured stone.
- Old-cut diamond
- A hand-faceted diamond shape characteristic of the period, featuring a small table, high crown, and open culet. These stones were cut to sparkle under candlelight.
- Silver gilt
- Sterling silver that has been coated with a thin layer of gold. This technique offered the rich appearance of solid gold while utilising silver as a base.
- Seed pearl
- Very small natural or cultured pearls, typically unperforated or half-drilled, clustered together in floral or ribbon motifs. They provide a soft, luminous texture against the metal.
- Lavalier
- A pendant featuring a drop suspended from a central necklace or loop. This form often swings below the main bow motif.
Edwardian Bow Pendant: Frequently Asked Questions
Are these pendants or brooches?
Many pieces were made to function as both, featuring a hinged pin on the reverse alongside a hidden loop for a chain. This dual purpose allowed Edwardian wearers to pin the bow to a bodice or suspend it from a ribbon necklace.
You will find that surviving examples often retain these original convertible fittings, though some have been altered to wear exclusively as necklaces.
What metals are used in these bows?
The materials span platinum, 18ct white gold, yellow gold, sterling silver, and silver gilt. Platinum gained popularity during this era for its strength, allowing jewellers to create ultra-fine ribbon wires.
Gold of various carats, particularly 9ct and 18ct, underpins many of the coloured stone and pearl combinations found in the evidence.
How do I spot an Edwardian piece?
Look for light, airy platinum wirework, natural seed pearls, and old-cut diamonds set in symmetrical or garland-style ribbon motifs. The aesthetic leans toward lightness and lace-like delicacy.
Victorian precursors tend to be heavier, while Edwardian designs embrace the Belle Epoque grace of flowing textile ribbons rendered in hard metal.
Can I wear one every day?
These jewels are over a century old and require thoughtful handling, particularly delicate platinum filigree and seed pearl settings. They are durable enough for occasional wear if kept away from harsh impacts.
Storing the pendant in a lined box prevents the ribbon loops or suspended drops from bending against other jewellery.