As you have no doubt heard, the Bridgerton family has made quite the stir once again and has the entire ton, nay, the world, in a frenzy. From fashion to home decor, it seems that they may be the most influential family since the Kardashians. So, it comes as no surprise to this author that we are seeing these Regency-era trends in jewelry as well, especially engagement rings! If you’re searching for the perfect ring to encapsulate your love for your partner and make the other ladies of the court positively green with envy, look no further. Grown Brilliance has a collection of stately pieces that are sure to impress.
It’s clear that when they set out to create their latest collection, the design team at Grown Brilliance looked to the Royal Family for some inspiration. Let’s start with Queen Charlotte herself. She was gifted a simple gold diamond band by her husband King George III on their wedding day. And while the fashions of the time would have required it, she never wore any other rings on that finger. The delicate pavé bands of the Grown Brilliance collection are no doubt a nod to this particularly treasured royal ring. Moving on to Queen Victoria, one of England’s most recognized Queens in her contribution to fashion. She sported the most unique engagement ring, a gold serpent featuring a pear-shaped emerald head and two ruby eyes. The pear shape is a very popular cut in the royal jewels and definitely makes an appearance in the Grown Brilliance collection. Queen Elizabeth II has a classic 3ct circular diamond set in platinum decoratively framed by smaller stones. Grown Brilliance has a very similar circular cut that is encircled by two intertwining pavé bands that mimic Queen Victoria’s serpent ring as well. And we couldn’t forget Princess Diana and Princess Kate’s shared oval-cut engagement ring, such a timeless cut that will never go out of style. And while she has currently renounced her royal title, Meghan Markle’s tri-stone engagement ring seems to have inspired one of the Grown Brilliance rings as well.
In addition to pulling inspiration from the royals, Grown Brilliance was undoubtedly inspired by the fashions of the Regency era. Aren’t we all at the moment? During the Regency era, jewelry was not just ornamental, it was symbolic. Each stone, each cut meant something different. Pear, oval, hearts, and floral motifs were the most prevalent. Grown Brilliance touches upon each of these swoon-worthy cuts and created rings that would woo even the most discerning debutantes.
Rose gold, yellow gold, and silver were the most popular metals of the time, with silver being the most common setting for diamonds as the color brings out the stone’s natural glow. We have since discovered white gold and platinum- more luxurious and resilient options that will provide the same look and are both offered by Grown Brilliance.
Though diamonds may never go out of style, some unsavory practices when it comes to acquiring these priceless gems certainly have. Thankfully, the “diamonds offered at Grown Brilliance are lab-grown and are completely conflict-free.” And, to those who would inquire, they are also responsibly made with all local labor laws being strictly followed. The great news is that “lab-grown diamonds are physically, chemically, and optically identical to natural diamonds.” So, you’re getting a higher quality stone at a fraction of the price with none of the guilt. It’s a win, win, win!
While they admit to having taken inspiration from a time gone by, Grown Brilliance is always focused on creating timeless pieces that you will look at and love for a lifetime. They focus on “evergreen shapes” and update them with a modern setting to give freshness to some of your favorite vintage looks.
Catch the newest pamphlet from Lady Whistledown to stay abreast of the season’s most delectable gossip and follow @GrownBrilliance on Instagram to stay up to date on the latest trends in wedding jewelry.
Photography: Joe Tanis | Photography - Assistance: Mark Grgurich | Stylist: Sharon Ryan