Spell it Out: The Secret Language of Acrostic Jewellery
For centuries, jewellery has carried secret messages between lovers and friends. From the acrostic jewels of the Victorian era, where coloured gemstones spelled out words of affection, to Sophie’s modern interpretations, the tradition has never lost its charm.
First came Sophie’s Acrostic Collection, recently relaunched to be fully personalisable. Now, the new Morse Code Collection takes this timeless idea in a fresh direction, spelling out words of love and endearment in diamond dots and engraved dashes.
Written in Stone: The Origins of Acrostic Jewellery
The story of acrostic jewellery begins in 18th-century France, when jeweller Jean-Baptiste Mellerio first used the first letter of each gemstone’s name to spell out words—amethyst for A, beryl for B, emerald for E, and so on. The idea soon reached the French court, where Napoleon is said to have commissioned acrostic bracelets for Empress Joséphine, each gem forming part of a secret declaration of love.
The tradition flourished in Victorian England, an era captivated by sentiment and symbolism. Much like the language of flowers—or floriography—jewellery became a discreet way to communicate feelings that couldn’t always be spoken aloud. Hidden in plain sight, these little declarations of affection spelled out words like Dearest, Regard and Adore in coloured gemstones across rings, lockets and brooches.
The Victorians’ choice of words might feel quaint today, but the idea of sending a message in gemstones still feels wonderfully personal.
The SB Acrostic Collection: Say it in Stones
Generations later, the tradition of coded jewellery is enjoying a revival, as more of us seek pieces that hold personal meaning. Sophie’s newly relaunched Acrostic Collection brings this idea into the present day, allowing you to spell out a name, word or private sentiment in gemstones.
A modern take on an antique style, each 9k yellow gold pendant can be set with up to seven coloured stones, creating a design that’s entirely your own. A nod to the secretive style of the Victorians, refreshed for today, it’s a thoughtful way to say I love you, I appreciate you or simply I’m thinking of you. Whether gifted to a partner, a mother, a daughter or a friend, it’s a jewel made to be worn close to the heart, hung from one of Sophie’s Ready-to-Wear chains.
The SB Morse Code Collection: Say it in Dots and Dashes
Carrying the spirit of hidden messages forwards, Sophie’s new Morse Code Collection translates words and sentiments into diamonds and engraving. Each pendant and ring spell out a word or phrase—Mama, Love, or Dearest are among Sophie’s favourites—in the universal Morse code alphabet of dots and dashes, turning heartfelt words into something you can wear.
Each disc and ring of polished 9k yellow gold is engraved with fine lines and set with round brilliant-cut diamonds to mimic the coded letters. The result is subtle, symbolic and just the right amount of sentimental—a keepsake that holds its meaning close, waiting to be decoded by the one it’s destined for.
Jewellery that speaks in its own secret language, both SB collections share the same spirit. Whether chosen as a personal keepsake or a thoughtful gift this Christmas, each piece is a reminder that some of the most precious messages are the ones only you can understand.
