Art Deco Jewellery makes a statement of freedom and individuality of the 20th century and today. Read on and learn why it’s still one of the most popular jewellery forms and how it can beautifully accent anything you wear.
You’re probably thinking, “What in the heck is art deco jewellery?” Through the ages, it has always been popular and it continues to be fashionable even today.
What is Art Deco Jewellery?
It’s a style and influence of jewelry that was introduced in the 1920′s through the 30′s. It started to emerge at a time when the world was recovering from the disastrous effects of war. Because of the social influences and the economy that followed WWI, it was a movement of change for something new and different.
The art deco movement actually originated in Paris around 1925. It is been said, that it started with an exhibition at an art show that showcased and encouraged the beginning of a new style that was adapted to the needs of individuality,
Egyptian Influences In the Jewllery
contemporary life and superb workmanship.
This Influence Continues To Take Hold Even Today as People Continue To Express Their Individuality
It was a time of modernization. The people wanted everything new and different. The artistic influence produced symmetrical streamlined pieces of jewelry very different than what had been ever seen before. This influence continues to take hold today and has become even more popular.
Here are some key points that distinguish this form of jewellery from all others.
- Precious gem stones and platinum- The prosperity after the war widened the marketplace for various jewellery such as precious stones, platinum and diamonds. You need to understand that platinum had only been recently discovered and today it’s set with the beautiful coral, jade and opaque stones.
- Drama is still the main emphasis with art deco jewellery- During the twenties and early thirties, the society clung to and emphasized uninhibited values and freedom of expression that inspired artists to come up with very dramatic and wild combinations of designs. It wasn’t just the usual metals of silver and gold, but like mentioned previously, platinum, plastics, pearls, rubies and even stainless steel was a regularly used in many pieces.
- Geometric shapes- Art deco jewellery incorporated many different shapes that had never been seen before. Most of these shapes had futuristic lines that were influenced greatly by graphic design as well as cubism. Even though this was a main thrust into this type of art, jewellery pieces were also fashioned after squares, arcs, triangles, circles and the many other shapes.
- Egyptian influences-This was a major craze for art deco jewellery, mainly because of the discovery of the tomb of king Tut in 1923. Designers went nuts with Egyptian motifs such as the falcon, scarab and sphinx. Because of the discovery of king Tut, chalcedony, lapis lazuli, and carnelian became very popular.
- The need for speed and art deco jewellery- This was also the age of the automobile and its emphasis on motion and speed. Many pieces were designed with speed motifs including the auto, gazelles, panthers, arrows and even planes.
- Items that became popular- There are many different forms of jewelry that were very popular during this time. These items included: pearls worn mostly as lariats and long ropes, diamond bracelets that were flexible and dress clips worn by many women.
So What About Art Deco Jewellery in Today’s World?
Different and Bold
Many styles and designs of jewelry come and go, but it seems like art deco remain strong even to the present day. Of all the periods, art deco jewellery seems to hold its value above all other pieces. This might be the case because it’s always classic, stylish, wearable and the workmanship has always been extraordinary.
Art deco jewellery represents an enduring art form that remains so popular that the prices for many pieces can go for hundreds of thousands of dollars or more. Auction houses such as Sotheby’s, Christies and Doyle regularly hold auctions for art deco jewellery. The winning bids usually go over the appraised values.
For example, a diamond and jade pendant earrings set in platinum and created by Janesich, recently sold for $43,750. This ended up being $13,000 above and beyond the auction’s top estimate. Also, around the same time, an Emerald ring that came from a royal family of India sold for more than $100,000.
Of course, you don’t have to go to auction house’s to find art deco jewellery. Many jewelers today still craft and design this popular type because of its popularity and demand. It’s elegant, fun and it makes a statement of who you are. It also remains in the spotlight because of the many celebrities that continue to make art deco jewelry a huge fashion statement on the red carpet.
In summary, art deco jewellery remains a strong fashion force even today. You can own and wear this beautiful style that serves as a unique and wonderful accessory to any outfit, both casual and formal. Make sure that you find a reputable jeweler that can provide you these fine pieces to add to your fashion ensemble.
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