Part 3 Jewelry made during the British colonial period in Hong Kong

Jewelry made during the British colonial period in Hong Kong (roughly 1950s–1980s) showcases a fascinating blend of traditional Asian aesthetics and Western trends. Here’s an overview of what you might find in terms of styles, materials, and time periods:

1950s–1960s

• Key Features:
  • Floral Motifs: Inspired by nature, with designs featuring blossoms, leaves, and vines.
  • Clip-On Earrings: Widely produced due to the popularity of non-pierced styles.
  • Matching Sets (Parures): Jewelry sets often included earrings, brooches, and necklaces, with coordinated designs.
• Popular Materials:
  • Faux pearls and glass beads.
  • Rhinestones, often in colorful arrays.
  • Enamel accents for intricate, painted details.
• Styles:
  • Chandelier Earrings: Dangling pieces with lots of sparkle, perfect for evening wear.
  • Brooches: Pin-on accessories featuring elaborate shapes like birds, flowers, or fans.
  • Statement Necklaces: Bold, multi-strand necklaces featuring beads or pearls.

1970s

• Key Features:
  • Bold Colors: Reflecting the influence of 1970s fashion, with earthy tones like amber, green, and gold.
  • Minimalism and Geometric Shapes: Sleek designs with clean lines became more popular during this decade.
• Popular Materials:
  • Resin and Lucite for lightweight, colorful pieces.
  • Natural stones like jade and tiger’s eye.
  • Metals, often gold-tone or mixed with other finishes.
• Styles:
  • Hoop Earrings: Both small and oversized, often featuring Lucite or enamel accents.
  • Pendants: Long chain necklaces with large, often geometric pendants.
  • Cuff Bracelets: Wide, bold bracelets, sometimes featuring intricate carvings or inlays.

1980s

• Key Features:
  • Glamorous and Oversized: Jewelry grew larger and flashier to match the bold fashion trends of the era.
  • Mixed Materials: Combinations of metal, beads, and enamel created eye-catching contrasts.
• Popular Materials:
  • Rhinestones, often paired with faux gold or silver.
  • Colorful enamel and plastic.
  • Swarovski-style crystals for an extra dose of glam.
• Styles:
  • Statement Earrings: Big, chunky, and often geometric.
  • Beaded Necklaces: Often layered for dramatic effect.
  • Pins and Brooches: Featuring whimsical or novelty designs like animals or abstract art.

Traditional and Export Pieces (Across All Decades)

• Jade Jewelry: Hong Kong was famous for producing jade pendants, rings, and bracelets, often intricately carved.
• Beaded Accessories: Jewelry made with tiny seed beads in floral or geometric patterns, especially in necklaces and earrings.
• Hand-Carved Bone and Ivory: These were used in bracelets and earrings, often depicting traditional motifs.
• Cloisonné Enamel: Delicate, colorful designs on bangles, pendants, and earrings.

Export Market and Hallmarks

• Many pieces were exported to the West and bear labels such as “Made in Hong Kong” or “Hong Kong.”
• Jewelry marked “Hong Kong” often aligns with costume jewelry but reflects excellent craftsmanship and timeless appeal.

About the author: Shawnee Jones

Curating rare, high-end vintage finds. Restored with care, celebrating creativity & uniqueness.

Vintage collector, designer, rhinestoning, and gold plating expert. Shop timeless elegance and custom sparkle.
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