What Characteristics Does Art Deco Jewelry Have?
For lovers of classic glamor, Art Deco jewelry is a must-have. From dazzling jewelry to architecture, and all aspects of design, Art Deco was the style that defined the Roaring Twenties.
Keep reading as we cover the characteristics of Art Deco jewelry, how the style was formed, and where you can buy the best Art Deco jewelry to add a flair of vintage beauty to your wardrobe.
ORIGINS OF ART DECO
The name Art Deco comes from 1925’s Paris World Fair: Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, which translates to International Exposition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Arts. However, even before the Paris World Fair and the style’s official naming, the Art Deco style had emerged and was quickly gaining traction.
Rather than one definitive style, Art Deco was shaped from various inspirations and was at the height of popularity from the 1920s to the 1930s. The art movements that shaped Art Deco were Cubism’s geometric shapes and the bright colors of Fauvism.
Art Deco focused on repeating and symmetrical geometric designs with contrasting colors, rather than soft curves and complementary colors that were previously favored.
Archeological discoveries such as the artifacts uncovered in the tomb of King Tut in 1922, also influenced Art Deco designs through motifs such as scarabs, pyramids, lotus blossoms.
Art Deco was a celebration of modernity and technological advancements. After the horrors of World War 1, people were embracing a sense of freedom and parting with Victorian limitations. Women became more able to express their individuality and were able to adorn themselves with more jewelry thanks to sleeveless dresses, plunging necklaces, and short hairstyles.
Major jewelry designers during the Art Deco period were Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Boucheron, and Tiffany & Co., who stayed on top of emerging trends and have captivating Art Deco creations in their archives that can still be enjoyed today.
ART DECO CHARACTERISTICS
Multiple characteristics comprise the Art Deco style:
Geometric Motifs: The most defining characteristic of Art Deco jewelry is geometric motifs. A variety of shapes with straight lines and angles, such as rectangles, triangles, and octagons were used together to create complex pieces that reflected the modern and streamlined spirit of the era.
Gemstone Shapes: Geometric shapes were also seen in the gemstone cuts that adorned Art Deco jewelry thanks to advancements in cutting techniques. Popular gemstone shapes were marquise, emeralds, baguettes, shields, and asschers, which were intricately arranged together to create a mosaic.
Colored Stones: While diamonds were very popular, colored gemstones were a staple of Art Deco jewelry either as the centerpiece or as accents. The most widely used colored stones included sapphires, rubies, emeralds, turquoise, coral, and onyx. When all these gemstones were juxtaposed, they created bold, contrasting colors.
Pave: Pave settings, which are small gemstones clustered together, were frequently used to add dimension and additional glamour to Art Deco jewelry.
Enamel: Enamel elements grew in usage during this the Art Deco period as they added solid blocks of color or stimulating contrasts to jewelry. Popular enamel colors were deep reds, greens, blues, and blacks.
Cool Toned Metals: White metals such as silver, white gold, and platinum were commonly used in Art Deco jewelry, while yellow gold had fallen out of style. In 1924, The world’s largest platinum deposit was found in northeast South Africa, which led to a boom in usage as platinum is a sturdy metal that does not tarnish like silver.
Filigree: This intricate metalwork created the appearance of fine lance that mirrored flowers, leaves, and swirls.
ART DECO JEWELRY
The following styles were fashionable in Art Deco jewelry:
Earrings: Long earrings that moved freely perfectly complimented bob haircuts and were popularized by Coco Chanel.
Necklaces: With women’s new plunging neckline dresses, long strings of pearls and bib necklaces adorned with large gemstones were a favorite.
Bracelets: Thanks to sleeveless dresses, wide and heavy bracelets used multiple gemstones to create intricate patterns that could be easily admired.
Rings: Cocktail rings featured a center gemstone cut in a stylishly geometric shape that surrounded by countless accent stones, composed of various shapes and colors.
Brooches: Whether worn on a hat or dress, brooches were a must-have accessory.
Throughout history, Art Deco has experienced multiple revivals. Through antique finds or modern creations with Art Deco inspirations, there are plenty of ways to incorporate this beloved style into your life.
Explore our top Art Deco inspired jewelry picks to elevate your jewelry box.
Boucheron 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Pave and Ruby Collar Necklace
Boucheron is just as beloved today as it was during the Roaring Twenties.
This collar necklace incorporates straight lines and geometric shapes to create stunning patterns. At the center of the necklace are delicate diamonds and rubies closely arranged for a flair of texture and color.
David Webb Antique Women’s Platinum Diamond Cluster Brooch
David Webb is known for its outstanding diamond creations, such as this stunning broach that is perfect for evening wear.
Arranged with exceptional diamonds cut into several shapes and set in platinum, this brooch feels straight from a vintage era.
LB Exclusive Platinum Round and Tapered Baguette Diamonds and Marquise Sapphire Ring
This cocktail ring is brimming with an Art Deco flair. At the center of the ring is a rich sapphire in a marquise cut. Pave and baguette diamonds encircle the sapphire in perfect symmetry, creating a rich presence on the wearer’s hand.
Now that you’ve mastered all the characteristics of Art Deco jewelry, are you ready to add Art Deco jewelry into your life? LuxuryBazaar.com has all of your Art Deco jewelry needs covered.
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