Art Deco Jewellery:
The Jazz Age aesthetic
Emerging in the 1920s and 30s, Art Deco jewellery represented a radical break from the flowing, naturalistic lines of Art Nouveau. This era is defined by geometric shapes, symmetry, and bold contrast. Think stepped designs (like skyscrapers), circles, and triangles.
Materials define the value. Platinum became the metal of choice for high-end pieces, valued for its strength which allowed for delicate, “invisible” settings. Stones were often cut into calibre cuts (custom shapes) to fit flush against one another. The combination of diamonds with onyx or coral is a classic Deco signature.
Collector’s Tip: Since Art Deco is arguably the most reproduced style in jewellery history, provenance and build quality are key.
Genuine period pieces often feel heavier and more substantial than modern castings. Look for crisp, sharp edges on the metalwork; modern reproductions often have softer, “mushy” edges due to the rubber mould casting process. Also, check for the “dog nose” clasp on bracelets—a standard finding of the era.
