A Collector's Guide to Recognising Art Deco Jewellery Designs
Bold lines, interesting details, bright colours.
Art Deco jewellery is heavily inspired by the architectural style of the same name.
Here at Adelaide Jewellery Repairs, we offer a wide selection of beautiful Art Deco gemstone jewellery online. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide for recognising Art Deco designs, including the most popular shapes and materials.
When Did Art Deco Jewellery Become Popular?
The exact year in which Art Deco made its debut is often debated, but many agree that it had gained attention by 1925. This period followed the end of the First World War, and the desire for structure can be seen in Art Deco’s geometric lines and sleek forms.
International Inspiration
The 20th century sparked a renewed interest in Japanese, Chinese, and Egyptian cultures. These cultures provided European designers with a fresh source of inspiration, and their influence can be seen in the popularity of materials like jade, coral, and pearls.
Another major inspiration for the Art Deco movement was modern industry and the machine age. This can be seen in the clear, rigid lines, some of which were inspired by machinery at the time.
Bright and Bold
Art Deco was one of the first jewellery designs to cast away the ‘rules’ of the past. Some of the most common characteristics include:
- Gemstones used in interesting colour combinations
- Sleek, bold jewels with sharp edges
- Structural components and linear designs
- Androgynous jewellery designs
- Geometric patterns
- Filigree work
Noteworthy Jewellery Houses
Some of the major jewellery houses responsible for popularising Art Deco include:
- Cartier
- Van Cleef & Arpels
- Janesich
- Raymond Templier
How to Tell if a Piece of Jewellery is Genuine Art Deco?
While modern reproductions of Art Deco designs can be incredibly beautiful, how do you tell if a piece is genuine? The first thing you want to look at is the age. Most Art Deco pieces were made sometime in the 1920s. You can often tell the age by the types of clasps and materials used. Look out for symmetry and the other characteristics associated with Art Deco and when in doubt, ask an expert!
Whether you love the intricate details of Art Deco or you prefer the simplicity of more modern jewellery, Adelaide Jewellery Repairs offers something for everyone. Shop for gemstone jewellery online and browse our wide selection of gold and silver jewellery. If you’d like to speak to one of our representatives, feel free to contact us today.