Art Deco Jewelry Style

Art Deco Jewelry . Ideas, History, Features. Art Deco Rings, Earrings, Necklaces Picks

Art Deco Inspired Drop Earrings : Black Agate and 1.60 ct. t.w. Garnet With Black Enamel in 18kt Gold Over Sterling. Ross-Simons

The Birth of Art Deco: Say Goodbye to Excess!

Picture this: the year is 1918, and the world has just come out of the devastation of World War I. The excesses of the Victorian and Edwardian eras suddenly feel outdated. People are done with frills and fuss - they’re ready for a fresh start! Women have entered the workforce, and the old ideas of nobility and wealth have shifted. In this exciting, fastpaced environment, Art Deco design was born, and it brought a much needed breath of modernity and novelty.

Jewelry in the Art Deco style was no exception to this movement. Inspired by artists, architects, and some of the finest jewelers in the world (for instance, Cartier or Van Cleef & Arpels), designers pushed boundaries to make jewelry that reflected the sleek, industrial spirit of the times. Gone were the nature-inspired swirls of previous eras. In their place came sharp lines, bold patterns, and geometric shapes. It was jewelry for the future!

Premium Product Picks

Inspired by Art Deco Rings and Earrings Over $100

Art Deco Black Onyx & Topaz Statement Ring in 18kt Gold Over Sterling. Ross-Simons

Art Deco Ring Modern Example: 2.40 ct. t.w. Garnet, .10 ct. t.w. Black Spinel in 18kt Gold Over Sterling. Ross-Simons

Art Deco Inspired Geometric Earrings : Diamond Drop Earrings in 18kt Gold Over Sterling. Ross-Simons

Art Deco Jewelry Style Ideas : Necklaces, Earrings, Rings

What Makes Art Deco Jewelry Unique?

So, what makes a piece of Art Deco jewelry stand out? Let’s take a closer look at its key features:

Geometric Shapes: Think rectangles, circles, and triangles all perfectly aligned in a way that would make any math teacher proud. Art Deco jewelry is all about symmetry, order, and bold shapes;

Bold Colors and Materials: Designers loved to mix natural posh materials like onyx, emeralds, jade, and rock crystal with manufactured ones like plastic and glass. This mix of textures gave Art Deco pieces their unique flair. Black and white combos of colors were a huge hit adding even more contrast!

Clean Lines and Sharp Edges: Forget the delicate, flowing curves of earlier eras. Art Deco jewelry was all about sharp edges and clear, clean lines. This style was modern and sleek, with no room for unnecessary frills;

White Metals: Platinum and white gold were the metals of choice, as they perfectly complemented the bold colors and clean designs. You’ll see these metals framing everything from diamonds to colored gemstones.

Art Deco Style Necklace in 925 Sterling Silver, Cubic Zirconia CZ Triangle. Geometric Pendant on a Chain

Art Deco Inspired Bracelet : 0.24 ct. t.w. Diamond Geometric Bolo in Sterling Silver. Ross-Simons

Art Deco Style : Diamond Pendant and Earrings Jewelry Set, Emerald Cut

Inspired by Art Deco Emerald Cut Ring : Blue Topaz 3-Stones In 925 Sterling Silver

Geometric Art Deco Inspired Jewelry Set

History Meets Function: Jewelry That Moves with the Times

Art Deco jewelry wasn’t just about looks; it was about function, too. As women’s clothing became simpler and more streamlined (think Coco Chanel’s famous androgynous silhouettes), so did their jewelry. Big gemstones were traded in for smaller, brilliant-cut diamonds, creating pieces that were elegant but not over the top.

One of the most iconic innovations of this era was the clip and double-clip brooch, which allowed women to easily transform their outfits by adding or removing jewelry. These pieces weren’t just beautiful; they were practical, too!

Later in the Art Deco period, as women’s fashion became more structured, jewelry designers leaned even more into geometric designs. Rock crystal often appeared next to diamonds, creating a stunning contrast that made the stones sparkle even brighter. And just like that, diamonds became a girl’s best (and brightest) friend!

Simulated Sapphire Art Deco Ring in Sterling Silver. Ross-Simons

Art deco Statement Ring : Garnet and White Topaz Ring With Black Enamel in Sterling Silver. Ross-Simons

Simulated Emerald and .65 ct. t.w. CZ Art Deco Style Ring With Black Enamel in Sterling Silver. Ross-Simons

Mid-Range Product Picks

Art Deco Inspired Jewelry Under $100

Inspired by Art Deco Necklace: Black Onyx and Marcasite Kite Shaped Pendant . Gemondo

Art Deco Drop Earrings in Sterling Silver, Black Onyx & Marcasite. Gemondo

Vintage Inspired Art Deco Green Chalcedony & Marcasite Drop Earrings in 925 Sterling Silver . Gemondo

Art Deco Bracelet Example. Geometric Lines, Blue Rhinestones

Marcasite Art Deco Stepped Stud Earrings in 925 Sterling Silver. Gemondo

A Fun Spin on Art Deco Looks

Now that we’ve gotten the history out of the way, let’s talk about how to wear Art Deco jewelry today. Whether you’re dressing up for a night out or just adding a touch of vintage glam to your everyday look, Art Deco pieces are versatile and timeless. Here are a few ways to style them:

• Classic Glamour: Pair a bold Art Deco necklace with a simple black dress for a timeless evening look. Add some red lipstick, and you’ll look like you stepped straight out of a Gatsby party.

• Casual Chic: Who says you can’t wear diamonds with jeans? Throw on an Art Deco ring or bracelet with your favorite pair of denim and a crisp white shirt. The clean lines and sharp angles of the jewelry will elevate even the simplest outfit.

• Bridal Brilliance: For brides looking for something unique Art Deco jewelry is a fantastic choice. The sleek designs complement modern wedding gowns while still offering a note of vintage elegance.

Budget Art Deco Style Product Picks

Accessories Under $50

Art Deco Black Onyx & Marcasite Ring in Sterling Silver 925. Gemondo

The Bottom Line: Why Art Deco Jewelry Still Shines

Art Deco designs emerged from a time of radical change, and their sleek, modern lines still feel relevant today. Whether you’re a collector or just someone who loves a little extra sparkle in your life, adding an Art Deco piece to your collection is always a good idea.

And the best part? You don’t need to be at a 1920s jazz club to wear it! Whether you’re dressing up for a night out or looking to add some elegance to your everyday style, Art Deco jewelry will always make you feel like the most glamorous version of yourself.

So, go ahead and embrace the bold - and don’t be surprised if you find yourself throwing a few Charleston moves while you’re at it!

FAQ: Art Deco Jewelry and Accessories

When did Art Deco start?

Art Deco began in the 1920s and gained popularity through the late 1930s. Its name comes from the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes held in Paris, which showcased innovative designs that would influence fashion, architecture, and jewelry for decades to come.

Why did the Art Deco movement start?

Art Deco emerged as a reaction to the excessive ornamentation of previous styles like Victorian and Edwardian. After World War I, the world wanted a break from the past, embracing a modern, streamlined aesthetic that reflected technological advancements and societal shifts, particularly the evolving roles of women.

What does Art Deco mean?

The term "Art Deco" is short for Arts Décoratifs, which translates to "decorative arts".

What is Art Deco jewelry?

Art Deco jewelry is known for its geometric designs, clean lines, and bold color contrasts. Popular materials include diamonds, emeralds, jade, onyx, and sometimes even unexpected elements like plastic or glass. It's often symmetrical and focuses on a modern, sleek look that reflects the design principles of the era.

How to dress Art Deco?

To achieve an Art Deco look, try outfits with clean lines and structure, inspired by the 1920s and 1930s. Think drop-waist dresses, sleek fabrics, and minimal embellishments. Pair this with bold accessories, like geometric necklaces or statement earrings, to complete the look.

How to style Art Deco jewelry?

Art Deco jewelry pairs well with both modern and vintage inspired outfits. For a formal look, wear a statement piece like an Art Deco necklace with a simple black dress. For a more casual outfit, try incorporating smaller pieces like geometric rings or earrings that add a vintage flair without overpowering your look.

What materials were used in Art Deco jewelry?

Common materials in Art Deco jewelry include precious stones like diamonds, rubies, and emerald, as well as onyx, jade, and rock crystal. Designers also used platinum and white gold as primary metals, but also plastic or glass, adding an unexpected, modern feel to the designs.

Why is Art Deco jewelry so popular?

Art Deco jewelry is timeless, thanks to its sleek, geometric designs and use of high-quality materials. The style reflects a unique period in history where form and function merged beautifully, making it a favorite for both vintage collectors and modern fashion lovers.

Art Deco vs. Art Nouveau jewelry?

Art Deco and Art Nouveau are both vintage styles, but they have different aesthetics. Art Nouveau, popular before Art Deco, focuses on flowing lines, natural forms like flowers and vines, and soft, romantic shapes. In contrast, Art Deco is all about bold, geometric patterns, sharp lines, and symmetry. If you love organic shapes, go for Art Nouveau. If you’re into sleek, structured designs, Art Deco might be your style.

Where can I find Art Deco jewelry?

You can find genuine vintage Art Deco pieces at estate sales, vintage shops, and auctions (think eBay). The above article also includes a few picks of Art Deco - inspired modern pieces categorized by prices. The examples capture the essence of the style but with contemporary materials and techniques.

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Lapis Lazuli & Marcasite Art Deco Ring in 925 Sterling Silver. Gemondo

Geometric Art Deco Vintage Antique Flapper Gatsby Style Royal Blue Rhinestone 19" inch Chain Pendant Necklace

Silver Tone Geometric Art Deco Style Royal Blue Rhinestones Earrings