The Story Behind Art Deco Jewellery

Art Deco jewelry was manufactured during the 1920’s. This period of time was one of excess; faster speeds, bold intense designs, brilliant colors, splashy geometric designs. Flashy, bold design was the rule of the day. The influence of Egyptian culture was evidenced by designs including the sphinx and falcon and jewels such as might be found in King Tut’s tomb, which was discovered in 1923. The use of ivory and jade was evidence of the Eastern influence on design. Nothing delicate would do. It was over the top with huge, ornate jewelry during the Art Deco era.

History of Art Deco

The term art deco was coined as a result of the name of the exhibit of art objects at the World Fair in Paris in 1925. It continued in popularity until the 1930’s, then experienced a revival in the 1980’s. It is now showing popularity again. It is in great demand with jewelry buyers. There are artists that specialize in designing reproductions of this style, but most buyers prefer the authentic item. The era was characterized by excesses in everything, and this trend was reflected in the styles of that period. The design elements that characterized this style were reflected in many things, such as clothing, architecture, automobiles, and even home furnishings. It was a design style that permeated the whole of society.

Characteristics of Art Deco Styles

In addition to the boldness of anything during this era, geometrics were a large part of the design in anything, not just jewelry. Large, bold squares, triangles, squares and circles were evidenced in anything crafted during this period. This was true in jewelry as well. Jewels were huge and boldly colored. Metals were chunky, ornate, and carved with the popular geometrics that were so popular. Designs were often stylized, and featured animals and other life objects. Gems included sapphires, emeralds, and rubies, as well as diamonds. Costume jewelry mimicked the look with fake gems that looked very much like the real gems. Again, bold colors and designs were the rule of the day. Bakelite became a component of costume jewelry as well. With its light weight, it could be molded into simulations of bows and ornaments and used as a component in jewelry designs.

Collecting Art Deco Items

Collectors are very interested in this style of jewelry. They usually prefer the authentic pieces, though beautiful and very realistic-looking reproductions have been designed. This collector’s item is not as expensive as some other collectibles might be, but this varies depending on the precious gems used. The more precious the gems, the more expensive it will be. Since the gems were huge for this style, it may be more expensive that jewelry with smaller gems. The costume jewelry of the era is generally very inexpensive. Visit our website to find some of the best deals. There are a large number of items that are still available. Some of the ones now available include:

* Black onyx and sterling ring
* Gold tone chunky flower heart choker
* Platinum and diamond chunky cocktail ring
* Hand painted ivory brooch
* Diamond and white gold vintage engagement ring

The popularity of this style of jewelry has waxed and waned over the years, but appears to be here to stay. Searching antique stores, estate sales, pawn shops, and online auctions can yield a beautiful piece that will complete a look. A bold art deco ring, choker, or pair of earrings can give that finished look to a personal style that will cause heads to turn at the beauty it portrays.