Jewellery Trends of the Past the 1990s

From grunge to pop, the 1990s was a decade of contrasts, and its jewellery reflected every mood. After the big, bold eighties, the nineties swung between subdued, music-driven minimalism and bright, playful sparkle. The decade also quietly reshaped one lasting trend, the rise of men's jewellery. This is the final instalment of our series on jewellery trends of the past, exploring the 1990s, with help from the antique specialists of Hatton Garden, London's diamond quarter in the EC1N postcode.

Grunge and the Rise of Silver

As in many decades, the fashions of the 1990s were heavily influenced by music. Grunge brought subdued colours and baggy, understated styles, and with them a preference for less showy precious metals, especially silver.

That rockier aesthetic also drove the growing popularity of contemporary body jewellery, as piercings and edgier looks moved into the mainstream. It was a deliberate move away from the conspicuous glamour of the previous decade.

Silver remains a wardrobe staple today, a lasting legacy of the nineties in contemporary jewellery.

Pop Culture Colour and Sparkle

Grunge was only half the story. Pop music was just as influential, and in response many young women favoured bright colours, beads, plastic and glitter in their jewellery.

This playful, fun side of nineties style sat in cheerful contrast to grunge's restraint, giving the decade its distinctive split personality. Chokers, butterfly clips and colourful beaded pieces all became signatures of the era.

That mix of moods is exactly why nineties jewellery has proved so collectable and so easy to revive.

Fun fact: The choker necklace, a defining nineties accessory, is one of the oldest forms of jewellery in history, worn in ancient Egypt and revived repeatedly across the centuries.

The Rise of Men's Jewellery

One of the most significant trends the 1990s introduced was the rise of men's jewellery. From beaded necklaces to stud earrings, it became less and less unusual to see a man wearing some sparkle.

That shift has continued well into the 21st century, reflected today in the growing popularity of pieces such as men's engagement rings. What once seemed daring is now simply mainstream.

If the feisty fads of the 1990s appeal to you, the more than 50 jewellers of Hatton Garden offer styles and influences to suit every taste, so you are sure to find what you are looking for.

Browse the whole series: 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.