Antique cut steel jewelry is truly amazing - we are captivated by its industrial nature, its romantic history, and its riveting brilliance. The beautiful antique cut steel pieces in our heirloom collection are as relevant today as they were hundreds of years ago.

Cut steel (or steel cut) jewelry is an arresting accoutrement of antique fashion that became a wildly popular substitute for diamonds in the eighteenth century. Tiny, multi-faceted steel beads were polished to resemble glittering gemstones and then riveted to a base plate to create a sea of subtle, dark sparkle.

Originating in England, cut steel jewelry became the rage in France around 1759, when citizens wore the jewelry as a replacement for more expensive pieces that were confiscated (or hidden) to pay for The Seven Years War.

Cut steel is unique because it is the only fine jewelry imitation where the stones and the setting are made of the same material. As a stylish alternative to diamonds, it was accessible to all levels of society.

In 2010, Crown Princess Victoria from Sweden wore this amazing antique cut steel tiara (circa 1800). Called the “Napoleonic Cut Steel Tiara" - it was originally made for Josephine Bonaparte’s daughter, Hortense de Beauharnais. The many-faceted, cut steel beads allow for the detailed feather, flower, and leaf design

The Napoleonic Cut Steel Tiara disappeared for over 100 years. Then, according to anecdotal stories, Victoria’s mother, Queen Silvia, found the antique tiara when she was exploring the palace cupboards and closets, after her marriage to King Gustaf.  The crown was still in its original velvet box.

Aside from jewelry, cut steel was also used to make buttons, shoe buckles, and hair combs. This fascinating zodiac button was made in the late 1700s – early 1800s in England, by Matthew Boulton, who paired cut steel with blue and white jasperware plaques made by Wedgewood.

Photo Courtesy of Victoria & Albert Museum

Original cut steel jewelry is a rare find, but it is just as striking today as it was hundreds of years ago. Due to its riveting industrial nature, antique cut steel pieces look as stunning with an evening gown as they do with a white tuxedo shirt and a pair of jeans.

Antique cut steel pieces are quite popular with our customers at Isadoras. Stop by and we will be happy show you the enchanting cut steel jewelry in our heirloom collection, or visit us online and check out all the antique cut steel pieces on our website.

Each and every piece will make a wonderful addition to your own antique jewelry collection.

Antique Cut Steel Pin

Left:  Victorian Steel Cut Earrings

Right:  Victorian Cut Steel Earrings

Georgian Cut Steel Earrings

If you have any questions, you can reach our knowledgeable staff at 206.441.7711, or e-mail Isadoras Antique Jewelry at info@isadoras.com.