Last updated on May 5th, 2021 at 01:03 am
Last Updated on May 5, 2021 Posted by Colonial Acres Coins
Approximately 100 years after the Art Deco movement began, estate jewellery belonging to this era is still in very high demand. Because the demand is greater than the supply of these vintage pieces still in existence, authentic Art Deco jewellery can cost thousands of dollars, with larger or rarer pieces sometimes ranging in the tens of thousands.
What makes Art Deco Jewellery so popular and sought after? In part, it is certainly the timeless beauty of the pieces, but there seems to be more to it than that. The Art Deco movement occurred from the 1920s to the early 1930s. It was a tumultuous time of scientific and societal advancement, and the jewellery from that period reflects the changes that were happening in society as a whole. Therefore, part of the allure of Art Deco jewellery may be a desire to own a piece of this intriguing time in history.
Modern Glamour
The Art Deco period took place primarily between World War I and World War II, a time of prosperity for many. Traditions such as dressing formally for dinner, including wearing lots of jewellery, were still observed but were given a modern update. You can see how this evolution took place if you ever watch “Downton Abbey.” The Crawleys always wear their best for dinner, but the fashions change throughout the series. By the end of the series, the women have fully embraced the Art Deco aesthetic in their formal dinner wear. Period pieces such as these may be partly responsible for keeping the demand for Art Deco jewellery high.
Bold Colours
During the 1920s, women started taking on new roles outside the home, both socially and in the workplace. As women started forging new identities for themselves outside the traditional roles of wife and mother, they rejected old fashions in clothing and jewellery. Instead, they embraced bold colours in stark contrast to the more sedate tones of the past. Thus, jewellery from this time period often features precious stones in bright colours and bold designs. Diamonds were still common in Art Deco jewellery, but you’ll often find them paired with more colourful stones, such as sapphires, garnets, and emeralds.
Scientific Innovations
The 1920s were a time of great scientific advancements. Motion pictures were first developed during this time, and a number of other innovations upon which we rely today became more prominent and accessible during this period, including the telephone, radio, and automobiles.
New innovations and scientific discoveries influenced the design of Art Deco jewellery. When King Tut’s tomb was discovered in 1922, it inspired jewellery designers to incorporate Egyptian motifs. New cuts for diamonds and other jewels were also developed during this time, including the baguette, Asscher cut, and French cut. Such advances allowed jewellery designers to create pieces that were more complex than ever before.
Geometric Designs
Rather than relying on the traditions of the past, Art Deco designers took inspiration from what they saw around them in their everyday lives to create a whole new aesthetic. Increasingly, what they saw were new machines helping to make their lives easier. Wanting to mimic the streamlined, futuristic look of these machines, designers started incorporating geometric patterns and vertical lines.
This aesthetic was not limited to jewellery design. It was also influential in the architecture of the time. One of the most iconic examples is the spire of the Chrysler Building in New York City.
Exquisite Artistry
Art Deco jewellery designers may have rejected a lot of the frills, garlands, and bows characteristic of past fashions, but they still paid a lot of attention to detail. As a result, an unbelievable level of craftsmanship went into creating each piece. As a result, each is an original work of art.
Find Authentic Art Deco Estate Jewellery
Art Deco was an influential movement. Through the decades, more contemporary pieces have mimicked their designs. You can find genuine articles amongst Colonial Acres’ collection of vintage and antique jewellery.