JEWELS FROM THE ROARING 20's

The new year has just begun and….WE ARE BACK TO THE 20’s! So, Ladies and Gents, guys and dolls, put on some swing music, pour yourself a glass of sparkly wine and let the Pirate of Libertalia tell you a little bit about the Art Deco period.

What is Art Deco?

The Art Deco period spans from around 1920 till around 1939. Back in that day it wasn’t referred to as ART DECO, the name was actually given later on in the 1960’s. This period got its world renowned name after the Exposition ‘Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes’ held in Paris in 1925 where that fashion style really kicked off! Art Deco started just after the first world war, the people were feeling more free a

nd liberal. The men no longer needed to think about the terrible great war and the women started their route to gaining

freedom! And thus, they threw away their corsets and got into something more comfortable, something that they could enjoy a drink or two in and dance the night away! It was the period of sharp corners, cubism and straight lines…and also about wearing bright flashy jewellery.

What Jewellery did they wear?

Back in the 20’s women would be dawning on some mighty bright and brilliant angular and cubic gemstones. The most common gemstones you would find where EMERALDS, SAPPHIRES, RUBIES, ONYX & CORAL! Most of the time, these bright coloured gemstones would be set up with pale gems like DIAMONDS, PEARLS & QUARTZ to offer contrast and also add emphasis to the main gem. If it was bright and showy enough, then around their necks it will be. People would also not opt for the dainty chain, instead replace it with a diamond or pearl necklace to emphasise their neckline and show off these brilliant gemstones.

But how would you identify an Art Deco piece today? Well, for starters most jewellery back then was set either in white gold or platinum; most of the gems would also be in a cubic and angular cut! Most jewellery would be found set tight together with barely any visible space in between to show off more of the gem and also the makers crafty handwork. In fact there was so little space between one gem and the other that they named it ‘Invisible Setting’, cool right?

Art Deco jewellery represented glamour, pride and sophistication, which fitted in with the social climate of the roaring 20s and spirit of the Swing and Jazz Age. Do you own and treasure a piece from the Art Deco period? Or maybe you love that style and are always on the lookout for the next Peaky Blinders or Great Gatsby party to attend! Either way, this period was quite an interesting one in the gem and jewellery world and has helped develop and shape gems in todays world! Hope you have a ROARING year! Keep an eye out on Libertalia for some new Art Deco inspired gems coming soon!!