For the eighteenth and most of the nineteenth centuries, children were thought of as miniature adults. This is great, because it means that there is lots of antique miniature children’s jewelry for us to find. It was not uncommon for infants and young children to receive rings, necklaces, bracelets and even earrings as gifts from friends and relatives.
Coral beads were particularly popular, as the material was thought to protect children from evil forces.
Baby rings were made with the same care as their adult counterparts. Today, we like wearing them as midi rings between the first and second knuckle.
Victorian 10k gold and 14k gold child's rings with enamel, pearl and garnet, at Gray & Davis.
To get the most out of your investment, tiny pairs of bracelets were made to be outgrown and clasped together to form one grown up bracelet!
Victorian pair of baby bracelets, at Gray & Davis.
Victorian baby bracelet pair as one large bracelet.
If you'd like more information, Shirley Bury knows all. Check out her "Jewellery 1789-1910," one of our favorite resources.