Art Deco jewelry is renowned for its unique, intricate and opulent design elements, making it popular in the antique jewelry market. With such an exceptional style of jewelry, lovers of jewelry often want to find pieces to collect that will help them enhance their collection.
The Art Deco era produced a range of different jewellery styles with many distinct features and the variety can make it difficult to narrow down what to collect. On careful examination though, prospective buyers can identify what types of antiques they wish to add to their collections.
Art Deco had influences from other cultures, such as Egyptian Revival. As a result, one thing that collectors look for when it comes to Art Deco jewelry is styles with those influences such as pieces with cobra and sphinx motifs which were incorporated into many earrings, necklaces and brooch designs from this era.
Furthermore, classic art deco motifs such as chevrons and geometric shapes also make for perfect pieces when looking at Art Deco jewelry. There are also other specialised categories depending on the materials used for making the piece like stainless steel or hard stone which look great when matched together with softer metals such as gold or silver.
Update: Sophisticated Jewellery From Art Deco Era In addition to traditional designs inspired by ancient cultures, there are several more contemporary designs which emerged during the Art Deco period.
While this may appeal more modern tastes in jewellery but still have an affinity towards nostalgic structures imposed from classic Art Deco style; featuring intricate patterns made up from diamond bracelet links or lapel pins encrusted with gemstones like emeralds and sapphires might be just right for any devoted collector’s ensemble.
Moreover, if someone wishes something more eclectic than restrained crystal chandelier clip-ons incorporating different semi-precious stones in sweet colours would be ideal too. Of course this doesn’t mean you should completely ignore original styles inspired by ancient cultures present in 1920s’ jewellery pieces while building up your collection either; conversely, one can combine the two kinds flawlessly so it amplifies the elegance of your setup.
The History of Art Deco Jewelry
The Art Deco style of jewelry dates back to the early 20th century, when it emerged in France and Spread throughout Europe and North America. This look attracted many wearers owing to its glamour, sophistication and modernity. It was popularized in the period before the Great Depression of 1929-1937 which facilitated affordable jewelry made with base metals and components like rhinestones as substitute for diamonds.
Types Of Art Deco Jewelry
Art deco jewelry has a distinct appearance that is characterized by geometrical shapes, vibrant colors, angular lines, symmetrical patterns, strong design motifs and high-contrast combinations. This look harks back to industrialism revolution from the 1920s by using surprising materials like metal mesh combined with precious stones or shell beads. Here are 3 key types of art deco jewelry:
Bangles & bracelets were often hand-crafted exclusively out of precious metals and sparkly gems such as sapphires or rubies however some also included semi-precious stones like quartz or amethysts as well as intricate carvings surrounded by coral or ivory elements. Other items frequently featured diamond chips alongside colorful enamels, mother of pearl or glass inserts.
As for necklaces during this period there were various styles popular including signet rings worn short with perfectly matched pendants that were then connected together through complex settings mimicking cats heads or garlands for even more elegant looks at the same time providing balance & visual contrast to those wearing them.
Furthermore earrings during this era adopted distinctive shapes of baguettes famous amongst celebrities flocking towards statement pieces whether they featured diamond encrusted drops or snake forms studded with pearls for added glamour.
Key Design Elements of Art Deco Jewelry
Art Deco jewelry is known for its gorgeous geometric shapes, bold lines, and beautiful materials. This style of jewelry has been popular since the early 1900s and looks effortless, yet elegant. Here are some elements to look for when you’re collecting Art Deco jewelry:
Bold Lines
Art Deco pieces often have thin yet bold lines or curves that create a modern look. The details in these pieces tend to draw the eye from one element of the design to another. Some common motifs seen in bold line designs include straight lines, swooping curves, angular shapes, zigzags, and chevrons. These pieces often feature intricate engravings as well.
Stylized Symbols
Another popular design element found in Art Deco jewels is stylized symbols like animals, birds, flowers, foliage and sun symbols like a rising sun or a sky with clouds. Some other popular symbols include gemstones like sapphires or rubies and abstract designs like infinity signs and stars. These symbols can be used as decoration further emphasizing the geometric shapes of the piece or they can also serve as a focal point for the jewelry.
Catchy Color Combinations
Color also plays an important role in Art Deco jewelry design – especially when it comes to gemstones. Popular combinations are two contrasting colors such as black onyx with pearls or blue sapphire with white opal stones.
Other combinations include three complementary colors like green emeralds paired with yellow gold accents and red ruby gems with rose gold settings for an added pop of color. In addition to gemstones there might also be colorful enamels used to enhance the design of the jewelry piece creating even more visual interest.
Popular Materials Used in Art Deco Jewelry
Art Deco jewelry, which emerged during the early part of the 20th century (1920s to 1930s), has made a resurgence in popularity. With its strong lines and geometric shapes, it is highly sought after for its unique style. Along with this vintage look comes a host of materials that can be collected. These include:
- Metals – gold, silver and platinum
- Gemstones – diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds
- Enamel – these were especially used on brooches and other decorative items
- Semi-precious stones – such as jade or turquoise
- Glass or mother-of-pearl accents – often combined with enamel for color
In many cases, Art Deco pieces feature a combination of materials to help increase the impact of the design. Gold is one of the most popular metals used in Art Deco jewelry because it has high malleability and can be worked into intricate designs. Silver was also popular since it offers alternatives to gold for those who could not afford it. Platinum was frequently present in higher end pieces where greater price points could be achieved.
Gemstones are often seen in elaborate Art Deco jewelry due to their vibrant colors. The most common gemstones used were diamonds as they were abundant at this time period in history; however other precious stones like rubies, sapphires and emeralds were available as well.
Colored enameling techniques also lent themselves through pieces like brooches and earrings that featured ivory tones contrasted against bright brightly colored areas filled with enamel paint applied by hand. Semi-precious stones like jade could also be integrated into pieces for added luxury appeal without needing costly precious gems; while smaller accents created with glass or mother-of pearl provided an additional level of detail work that resonated visually with buyers.
Different Styles of Art Deco Jewelry
The Art Deco period, between the two World Wars, is known for its use of brilliant and bold geometric designs. Art deco used bright colors, such as turquoise and gold; angular lines with an attention to detail, materials from nature like shells and coral; along with innovations in materials such as Bakelite. Collectors often look for pieces that have a geometric/ angular motif combined with luxury materials.
A popular style of jewelry from the Art Deco period is “jeweler’s modernism”-designs which captured an expression that was both practical and classic at the same time. These pieces were often made out of sterling silver or platinum and accented with metal details such as diamonds or sapphires.
Examples include bracelet watches adorned with diamond-studded hour markers or flapper pendants decorated with hanging drops of calibrated stones. Jeweler’s modernism gives collectors a chance to combine newness (as expressed through modern design) and timelessness (as expressed by classic styling).
Brisé is another excellent type of art deco jewelry to collect. This style refers to jewelry created from carved stone in intricate patterns and shapes; quite popular in France during the 20’s it focused on clever abstractions of the human form or on replicating a variety of fine details-a sunflower center followed by withering petals, for example.
Popular stones used were jadeite, lapis lazuli, onyx, obsidian, rhodonite and coral all arranged in tasteful patterns and colors. Brisé makes perfect ornamental accents to any collection-whether display case only or proudly worn around the neck every day.
Overall collecting art deco jewelry can be very rewarding; not only are these pieces aesthetically pleasing but they also embody many archetypal motifs applicable across a broad range of cultures throughout history. From Egypt to Persia before passing into Chinese culture: one can find inspiration for beautiful articulated themes repeatedly occurring within each strand of this iconic era’s uniquem sartorial language – art deco jewelry ensures you look original even after all these years.
What to Collect with Art Deco Jewelry
Collecting art deco jewelry as a hobby can be both enjoyable and valuable. Every piece of jewelry has a history and by collecting different pieces from different time periods, you’ll have a unique selection of beautiful items to show off.
There are plenty of pieces that you can collect with art deco jewelry. Here are a few examples:
- Necklaces – Art deco necklaces come in many variations including pendants, choker-style necklaces with long or short chains, three-strand necklaces, multi-strand collars, and long cords or ribbons. Many necklaces also feature colorful gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, emeralds, and diamonds.
- Bracelets – You’ll find bridal bracelets featuring intricate designs as well as cuff styles for everyday wear. Bracelets can also feature gold settings with enamel accents and crystal detailing that make them stand out.
- Rings – Rings from the art deco era vary widely in style and design. They can have geometric patterns crafted from platinum or yellow gold with diamond accents. Or they could be created using unusual materials like wood or stones like turquoise for an ‘earthy’ look.
- Earrings – Earrings are typically come in either classic drop designs or with large central stones surrounded by detailed filigree work done in silver or gold. Both pearl and colored stones like aquamarine make attractive centerpieces when used in earrings.
Contemporary Art Deco Jewelry Designs
Art Deco jewelry is stylish and timeless, that’s a fact. What began as an art movement in the 1920s has become a popular trend for fashionistas all over the world today. While original pieces from this period are often overly expensive or difficult to find, contemporary interpretations provide endless options for those looking to get in on the modern Art Deco aesthetic. Here’s what you should collect with your Art Deco jewelry:
- Palm springs inspired earrings – Palm Springs was a fashionable stop for Hollywood celebrities in the 1950s and 60s, and these retro-chic earrings capture its whimsical glamour perfectly.
- Egyptian motif necklaces – These Aztec-like geometric designs feature vibrant colors and statement shapes inspired by Egyptian jewelry from antiquity.
- Colorful bracelet sets – Whether done with stones or beads, pairing colorful bracelets creates an eye-catching look that can be dressed up or down easily.
- Vintage Cocktail rings – Combining European styles like Rococo and Baroque with classic, Hollywood Glamour elements, cocktail rings add sparkle to any ensemble.
- Braid detail pendants – Taking inspiration from Cubism’s jagged lines and realistic depictions of shadows and light, these unique pendants offer subtle shine in luxurious materials.
Aside from their beauty, one of the best features of Art Deco pieces is their versatility. With just a few items in your collection, you’ll be able to create many different looks depending on how each item is worn or layered together. For example, wearing color coordinated dangle earrings with a braid detail pendant layered over an Egyptian motif necklace makes for an interesting look that captures both modernity and nostalgia.
You can wear this ensemble dressed up or down while staying true to your personal style. And if you’re feeling daring enough, opt for bolder pieces such as diamond encrusted vintage-inspired rings or dramatic statement necklaces.
Popular Brands of Art Deco Jewelry
Art Deco jewelry was originally popular in the 1920s and 1930s. It is a distinct style of jewelry that features bold geometric shapes, intricate details, bold colors, and opulent materials. Popular brands from this era of jewelry collections include Cartier, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, and Roger & Gallet.
These iconic jewelry makers had their own unique take on Art Deco ideas resulting in stunning pieces like Cartier’s diamond tiaras with bright gems or Tiffany’s bracelets featuring gems of every color. With such iconic names attached to Art Deco creations, these are often collectors’ top choices when looking for important pieces to add to their collections.
Important Things To Know Before Collecting
Before collecting any piece of art deco jewelry it is important to understand the period accurately and be able to identify its main characteristics. As jewelry from that era was made with precious metals and diamonds, make sure the materials used are genuine and have not been replaced or altered by time or any previous owner.
It can also be helpful to examine signs of wear in order to identify an item’s age and estimated value. Moreover, it is worth seeking advice from reputable dealers, as they can provide real insights about where to look for authentic pieces as well as information on the latest fashion trends if you want to incorporate different eras in your collection.
Tips for Collectors
Choosing what pieces of Art Deco jewelry one should collect is certainly a very personal decision but some tips can help streamline the search process. First off, consider what type of items you would like to collect – do you prefer large flashy statement-making items or small delicate pieces? There is no right or wrong answer here – simply follow your personal preferences; if you are passionate about one particular time period or designer brand then stick with that.
Always inspect the jewelry carefully before making a purchase so you know exactly what condition it is in; don’t be afraid to ask questions either as many antique dealers will be more than happy to answer them for you. Also try to attend some auctions or antiques fairs when looking around for items – they can potentially offer interesting finds at affordable prices.
Care Tips for Art Deco Jewelry
Different pieces of art deco jewelry require different levels of care. For example, some pieces may need to be wiped down after wearing since they may contain a lot of delicate details that could become damaged if exposed to sweat.
Other items, such as antique jewelry, may require special cleaning solutions or materials to make sure they get the best possible care and retain their value. It’s important to research what type of care is needed for each piece in order to get the most out of it.
Tools To Have On Hand
In order to properly take care of art deco jewelry, there are certain tools that should be kept on hand including cotton swabs, soft cloths, polishing cloths, and lint-free gloves. Cotton swabs can be used for wiping away dust or dirt from more intricate pieces, while soft cloths can be used gentle rubbing motions on heavier materials such as metals.
Polishing cloths are ideal for giving items a quick shine and finally lint-free gloves will protect items from oils on the hands when handling them.
Storage Tips
When it comes to storing pieces of art deco jewelry it’s important to use an appropriate space for display and protection against exposure from air and humidity. Since many pieces have intricate details and delicate stones it is important not only to display them in a place where they won’t get knocked around but also shielded from too much exposure which can cause damage over time.
Some good options include using special boxes with foam repositionable inserts or investing in a specialized cabinet specifically made for displaying jewelry that includes locks for extra security.
Tips for Finding Quality Pieces of Art Deco Jewelry
Art Deco jewelry is a popular collection item among many hobbyists and antiques enthusiasts because of its beauty and uniqueness. Art Deco is an art movement from the early twentieth century, focusing on modern aesthetics and bold geometric patterns. It features an array of vibrant colors, shapes, and materials, creating beautiful pieces that collectors will treasure for a lifetime. When searching for quality pieces of Art Deco jewelry, it’s important to consider certain factors before making a purchase.
The first factor to consider when collecting Art Deco jewelry is condition. As with any vintage item, it’s important to inspect each piece closely for signs of damage or wear-and-tear that could affect their longevity in your collection.
Look over the piece thoroughly for dents or missing stones, as well as corrosion or discoloration. A reputable dealer should be able to provide detailed descriptions of each piece’s condition along with images so you can make an educated purchase.
When looking at potential pieces for your collection be sure to examine the craftsmanship behind them as well. Authentic Art Deco jewelry is usually made with precision and excellent technique which set them apart from more modern designs; they should look like expertly crafted works of art. Pay attention to the tiny details – such as small twists in metalwork or delicate etchings – these are all telltale signs of original, high quality items from this era.
Finally, one should always think carefully about budget before beginning a collection; prices for authentic pieces of Art Deco jewelry range significantly depending on condition and rarity.”, so it’s important to have a good sense of what price range you can realistically afford. With patience and research the perfect pieces can be found at reasonable prices so even those on more limited budgets can get started building their own personal collections.
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I love making jewelry and sharing my creations with others.
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