Art Deco was all the rage from the 1920s to 1930s. Its influence can be seen in multiple items produced during the era, including clothes, architecture and jewelry. Those who want to own a piece of this time period can do so, but it first requires an understanding of this artistic style and its distinct characteristics.

What Defines Art Deco Jewelry?

This type of jewelry will typically display geometric shapes which are high in precision and bold, with vibrant color. It is a style that emerged during the 1900s, a time of rapid change and industrialization, particularly in the West. Mankind was beginning to mass produce machines, and Art Deco imitates them, displaying characteristics which are typically seen in mechanical objects, such as symmetrical patterns with parallel lines.

Whereas the previous art style, Art Nouveau, was inspired by nature, with its organic, flowing curves, Art Deco was inspired by industry and a future which many at the time felt would be mechanical and industrial. Therefore, it can be said that the Art Deco style is a symbol of technological achievement and progress. Architecturally, it is best manifested in the Empire State building, and although it is now considered to be part of the late 19^th and early 20 centuries, it continues to inspire even today.

How Art Deco Jewelry Is Worn

Men and women of the upper class typically preferred big gemstones and accessories which were studded with diamonds. Some of the specific gems that can be found in jewelry of this type include emeralds, sapphires and rubies, which were prized for their bright colors and sharp contrast. Art Deco jewelry will often feature diamonds that are cut in a baguette manner and it wasn’t unusual for other rare stones such as onyx, jade or even carnelian to be used.

White metals such as platinum were routinely used in Art Deco jewelry, as platinum was relatively new at the time and was considered to be a futuristic metal. White gold was also quite popular. Art Deco earrings will typically come in the form of pendants which have sizeable natural stones or gems which are semiprecious. Necklaces would often be manufactured with pearls, and have strands which were long. Women of the time would wear more than one bracelet, which was designed to bring balance to their bare arms in garments that were either sleeveless or short sleeved.

How To Acquire Art Deco Jewelry

Original Art Deco jewelry is no longer manufactured and surviving pieces would be considered antique as they were usually manufactured over 100 years ago. The best way to find them is either through specialty dealers or estate sales, as this jewelry was owned by wealthy families and was often passed down from one generation to the next. The internet has made it a lot easier to find this jewelry as there are numerous private collectors that sale pieces either in complete sets or individually.