Published by Mathew Hinton on Friday, January 20, 2017

Have you ever wondered what makes a piece Art Deco and how this type of jewellery was established? Well, we have the answers so read on to find out.

The Art Deco era reigned supreme from 1920 to 1939 but reached its peak in 1925. This was a result of an event that was dedicated to the jewellery arts in Paris, France, which happened to coincide with women gaining the right to vote in America. The term Art Deco is a shortened version of the events name, Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes (International Exposition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Arts).

The style of Art Deco jewellery is industrial, emulating its emergence in a period of widespread industrialisation, sleek and it is there to make a statement and to be theatrical. The designs are influenced by skyscrapers, nature and a variety of cultures, including Asia, Africa and Egypt. These influences are softened slightly with stylishly floral motifs and carved cabochons. A variety of gems are used in Art Deco pieces including rubies, sapphires, onyx, jade, lapis lazuli, frosted quartz, diamonds and it just oozes luxury. The designs normally have precise but bold geometric shapes, such as circles, triangles, squares, rectangles and even polygons. This is as well as having parallel lines and vivid colours.

There are many types of Art Deco jewellery but the most commonly found examples are brooches, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, rings, duette clips, dress & fur clips, watches and even flapper beads. The most influential jewellers of this period have included Cartier, Raymond Templier, Tiffany & Co and Rene Boivin.

As you know by now, we are big lovers of Art Deco and have a large range of rings on our website that showcases the very best aspects of the Art Deco jewellery era. Take a look at our online collection or be sure to come see us in store to see more.