1900 - 1900 – Bonebakker and the Belle Epoque

Belle Epoque necklace with diamonds, circa 1900. This platinum and white gold necklace bears the master sign of As Bonebakker & Son, decorated with swirling bows and ribbons, including pear shaped droplets with rose cut diamonds set in foil and a brooch pin, length ca. 39,5 cm

The beautiful era

The period between circa 1900 and the WW1, also known as the Belle Epoque, Fin de Siècle or ‘the beautiful era’ becomes a time that Bonebakker flourishes. In this period of great wealth, there is plenty of scope for science and art. The trend in art becomes very ornate and voluptuous, a style that can be seen in both architecture and jewellery.

Bonebakker adopts this fashionable trend by creating high quality, elegant jewellery. In the style of the Belle Epoque the jeweller adds different gems to his collection of gold, silver and diamonds. Jewellery made of gold and platinum are decorated with sapphires and emeralds. But Bonebakker also creates necklaces made from rare pearls. At jewellery exhibitions where silversmiths show off their abilities, the firm always wins gold, silver and honourable medals.

Broche/pendant in garland style with detachable parts, in platinum and gold,
fully set with rose cut diamonds and two pear-cut diamond pendants.

In this period the board of the Bonebakker company sees a lot of changes. Johan Christiaan Reinier, who dies in 1883, is succeeded by his son Willem Gerard. Willem Christiaan leaves the company in 1890 and is succeeded by his brother Carl. From 1891 Bonebakker is run by the two cousins who incorporate the adjacent building into the company.

In 1911 Carl Bonebakker quotes: ‘Our new building must keep a dignified distinction, shown in the exterior as well as the interior decoration. This will be best achieved by keeping everything in the Empire style. We must also maintain the air of a closed shop, however with clear signs of ongoing trade.’