Bold, Timeless & Elegant: An Intro to Art Deco Jewelry

While we love jewelry in all its forms here at Sindur Fine & Antique Jewelry, there is something particularly special about the history and craftsmanship that is found in an exquisitely designed Art Deco piece. A distinct style of jewelry that was popular during the 1920s and 1930s, Art Deco has come back into vogue in recent years, and we couldn’t be happier to see it gaining popularity once again.

But what exactly is Art Deco? The style itself has been used to describe everything from bridges and buildings (including Cincinnati’s own Carew Tower) to radios and clothing, but the name itself comes from the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, which was held in Paris in 1925. This world’s fair quickly gained fame for showcasing the latest trends in art and design, and Art Deco jewelry was one of the stars of the show.

The 1920s and 1930s were a time of social and technological upheaval (think Prohibition, bootleggers and flappers); Art Deco jewelry reflected this dramatic societal shift by eschewing the soft curves and organic elements of Art Nouveau and the lacy lightness of Edwardian styles. Instead, this new style incorporated bold lines, vivid colors and exotic motifs that were influenced by the rise of modernism in art and architecture

Art Deco jewelry is characterized by several unique elements, including:

• Geometric shapes: The use of geometric shapes, such as triangles, squares, and circles, was inspired by ancient Egyptian art, Aztec art, and Cubism.
•  Bold colors: Art Deco jewelry was known for its use of bold and vivid colors like red, blue, and green, in stark departure from the previously popular Art Nouveau style.
• Precious metals and gemstones: Art Deco jewelry is often made from precious metals
  like gold and platinum to create pieces that are both luxurious and durable. Art Deco jewelry also often featured large, eye-catching precious gemstones like diamonds,
  rubies, and sapphires.

Art Deco jewelry is still popular today; it is often seen as a classic and timeless style that is
favored by collectors and fashion-forward individuals alike, and can be found in a variety of styles, from simple and elegant to bold and glamorous. Here are just a few of the many Art Deco pieces we currently have in our showroom:

• Tourmaline & Yellow Gold Necklace: Originally a brooch, this converted pendant necklace showcases the bold, geometric lines that are a hallmark of the Art Deco era.
• London Blue Topaz & Tsavorite Garnet Earrings: Bold colors were a staple for Art Deco jewelry; these lavish London blue topaz and tsavorite garnet Art Deco style earrings feature stunning, hand-painted enamel sure to catch anyone’s eye.
• White Gold Hexagonal Diamond Ring: Proposing to someone with an appreciation for history and old-world style? This diamond ring, featuring an exquisite Old European cut diamond, is a perfect example of stunning Art Deco craftsmanship.
• White Gold & Citrine Cocktail Ring: This one has it all: A vivid citrine, beautiful geometric symmetry, & sumptuous hand engravings that are emblematic of the era.

While seeing new trends and styles emerge is always exciting, there really is something magical about holding a vintage Art Deco piece in your hands and admiring the care and craftsmanship that went into it. If you are looking for a timeless, elegant yet stylish piece of jewelry for your
own collection or for someone you love, we definitely recommend looking to the Art Deco era for inspiration—and we’ll be happy to help you find the perfect piece.