The period that took place during and after the Art Nouveau period is the Edwardian period 1901-1915. Named after Edward VII. The jewelry during this era screamed wealth with a lot of mixed stiles. Filigree which is a delicate lace like design was often seen. White gold and Platinum where the main metals used. New technologies aloud diamond cutters to cut diamonds with better accuracy and made them sparkle more. Popular stones during this period included Peals, Black opals, Green garnets and sapphires.

The Art Deco period came after the Edwardian period 1915-1935. This period was full of linear and geometric form which gathered its inspiration from architecture. Metals used mainly in this period where still white gold and platinum set with diamonds and bright bold colored stones. The great depression greatly impacted the middle of this period and jewelry and manufacturers started incorporating cheaper materials such as bakelite (a form of plastic) and stones such as coral and turquoise. As WWII came the Art Deco period ended.

The Retro period occurred during 1935-1950. After WWII and the Great depression many people questioned paper money and considered jewelry as a type of wearable commodity. Big Chunky designs designs where popular. Platinum was scarce because it was allocated to the war. Gold was back in style in various colors such as yellow, green, and rose where in. Popular gemstones used during this period where aquamarines, topaz, and citrines, as well as synthetic rubies and sapphires.

Michael Sklar GG
Watch and Jewelry Specialist