The Art Deco period was an era defined by exuberance and innovation. During this period, antique jewellery underwent a remarkably innovative transformation from the earlier Edwardian style. Renowned for its geometric shapes, bold colours, and intricate designs, Art Deco rings capture the glamour and elegance of the 1920s and 1930s. However, choosing the perfect Art Deco ring isn’t just about picking a piece of jewellery that catches your eye; it involves understanding the history, the details, and the unique qualities that set these rings apart. In this blog, we'll explore the Art Deco period in depth, focusing on what makes Art Deco rings so unique and special.
What was special about the Art Deco Era?
This period was an era of decadence and excess spurred on by the significant economic boom after WW1. There was a rise of consumerism, the emergence of women in the workforce and the culture of rebellion. This lead to fashions changing, women's fashion in particular. This shift in lifestyle had a profound impact on fashion, ushering in an era of liberation from restrictive corsets, conservative styles, and the elegant silhouettes of the Edwardian era. Instead, hemlines rose, waistlines dropped and more relaxed styles were preferred. This huge sense of freedom and fun was reflected in fashion and jewellery. Ultimately, this era allowed people to feel liberated, able to express themselves and freedom.
What styles of jewellery were popular in the Art Deco Era?
Jewellery designers during the Art Deco era were keen to break away from the fluid lines and natural themes Edwardian jewellery possessed. Instead they embraced modernism and the advances in technology and machinery which lead them to a completely new theme which was bold, geometric and symmetrical.
What stone cuts were popular in Art Deco Rings?
This era was defined by new innovative gem-cutting technology, allowing jewellers to craft some impeccable cuts. Art Deco jewels often have pristine lines, lots of sparkle and graceful shapes. Among the popular stone cuts were:
Emerald Cut: Rectangular and includes larger facets arranged in parallel rows. This cut became synonymous with the Art Deco era.
Asscher Cut: Resembling the Emerald cut but has more of a square shape, typically has around 50-58 facets. The Asscher cut brings depth with its high crown. It offers a unique, vintage charm whilst captivating sparkle. Fun fact, it was the first diamond cut to be patented.
Baguette Cut: The Baguette style, often used as side stones, has a rectangular step cut shape.
Marquise Cut: Curved with pointed ends. Often, this cut style gives the appearance of the stones to be bigger and bolder.
How were Art Deco Rings Made?
Art Deco rings and jewellery were crafted through a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques. Artisans meticulously hand-engraved and added intricate details, while machine engraving allowed for precise, complex patterns. Each piece was carefully assembled and polished to achieve the era's signature clean lines and sophisticated elegance.
What gemstones were most popular in the Art Deco Era?
Art Deco rings often featured a striking combination of diamonds and vividly coloured stones such as emeralds, sapphires and rubies, alongside semi-precious gems like lapis lazuli, onyx, and coral.
What metals were most common in the Art Deco Era?
Platinum was the metal of choice during this era. Huge platinum deposits were discovered in South Africa allowing jewellers to make use of this strong and malleable metal and create intricate and long lasting pieces of jewellery. While Art Deco was a time of prosperity, it also faced challenges, particularly during the Great Depression of the 1930s. As economic constraints set in, white and yellow gold became popular alternatives to platinum for Art Deco jewellery. Additionally, rose gold, created by alloying gold with copper, occasionally appeared, adding a unique touch to the era’s striking gemstone combinations.
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