Sir Alfred Gilbert was one of turn-of-the-century Britain's most prominent sculptors. His most famous public work is Eros in Piccadilly circus, London. Eros is made of aluminium, and Gilbert's interest in experimenting with metal also led him to design highly distinctive pieces of jewellery. Many of these used wire, set with inexpensive materials such as glass, shell, or semi-precious stones. Their spontaneous and informal appearance reflects the fact that Gilbert's jewellery was often made on the spur of the moment for friends or family.

Gilbert did occasionally create formal jewels, which showcased his unusual style in more precious materials. These included a mayoral chain for the town of Preston and a presidential badge and chain for the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours, of which he was a member.