1800-1840 Napoleon to Romaticism

Following the French Revolution, the rise of Napoleon brought about a rebirth in the jewelry industry; the French leader was something of a voluptuary with a legendary passion for jewels. "Napoleon Classicisms" became the style of the day-one of the longest lived aspects of his rather ephemeral empire. By 1820, however, classicisms had run its course. A more naturalistic style was the order of the day. At the same time, post war Europe´s short supply of precious metals and stones lead jewelry makers to turn to semi-precious gems. Amethysts, topazes, aquamarines and chrysobeayls dominated the jewelry designs during these lean years.