A History of Art Deco Jewellery

Post-World War I, a new jewellery style emerged. The 1920s and 30s saw luxurious materials and sleek, geometric designs become mainstream. It allowed jewellers to create bold jewellery pieces which used bright colours and angular shapes. Diamond Heaven’s guide explores the history of Art Deco jewellery.

What is Art Deco Jewellery?

Art Deco jewellery refers to jewellery manufactured after World War I. At the time, several inventions emerged, such as aviation, skyscrapers and automobiles. Also, women’s fashion evolved in the 1920s due to societal changes, and it was known as the ‘Roaring 20’s’, which was all about bringing new fashion and jewellery styles to the fore. Most Art Deco jewellery pieces featured geometric designs and shapes, like arcs, rectangles, circles, squares and triangles.

What Influenced the Art Deco Movement?

Several influences were responsible for the Art Deco movement in the early 20th century. Cubism, Futurism, the Machine Age and Ancient art were a few themes that shaped Art Deco. This time was known as a decadent era. It was the age of prohibition changes, with glorified drinking, dancing and cocktail parties, and a rejection of the previous Victorian ideals. This glamorous time was a moment of empowerment for women being emancipated and now able to drink, smoke, and vote. This is reflected in the very expressional jewellery designs, breaking the mould of what was previously worn in various jewellery pieces, from earrings to necklaces and diamond rings. 

What are the Characteristics of Art Deco Jewellery?

There are specific characteristics which make Art Deco jewellery unique to that period, such as:

• Using old European cut diamonds and bright gemstones in various shapes, including round cuts, marquise cuts, emerald cuts, and pear-cut stones to name but a few.
• Art Deco jewellery uses custom-cut gemstones made to taper and fit inside different jewellery settings, such as a rub-over or bezel set design and various channel set designs. Therefore, the gems are tension set into the jewellery piece, with extra little details compared with any traditional solitaire design you see with prongs holding the stones in, and an art deco piece of jewellery has stunning attention to detail and symmetry.
• Filigree designs are prevalent on Art Deco rings and necklaces, featuring small, intricate cut-outs that make each jewellery piece stand out beautifully from every angle.

What Metals Were Used for Art Deco Jewellery?

White metals, like platinum and white gold, were popular precious metals for creating Art Deco jewellery. In the early days of Art Deco, platinum was used extensively for jewellery manufacturing. Around 1915, the cost of platinum and gold increased, and jewellers started using white gold as an alternative to platinum for engagement rings and necklaces.

Is Art Deco Jewellery Popular Today?

Over a century later, Art Deco jewellery remains popular. The designs and styles continue to attract jewellery enthusiasts and couples who want engagement rings and necklaces that won’t go out of style.

Treat yourself to a timeless and unique diamond Art Deco jewellery piece from Diamond Heaven. Begin your Art Deco jewellery buying journey by booking an appointment at your local showroom today. Our experienced diamond experts are here to answer your questions and assist with finding your dream Art Deco engagement ring or pendant.