Introduction

Art Deco Jewelry: A Guide to History, Styles, and Value

Introduction

Art Deco jewelry is a distinctive style of jewelry that emerged in the early 20th century. It is characterized by its bold geometric shapes, bright colors, and luxurious materials. Art Deco jewelry was popularized by the Art Deco movement, which emphasized a rejection of traditional styles and an embrace of modernity. Today, Art Deco jewelry is highly sought-after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Origins and History

The Art Deco movement began in the 1920s and flourished until the late 1930s. It was heavily influenced by the Art Nouveau movement, as well as by the geometric and streamlined designs of the Bauhaus movement. Art Deco jewelry was often made from gold, silver, platinum, and gemstones such as diamonds, emeralds, and rubies.

Characteristics of Art Deco Jewelry

Art Deco jewelry is characterized by its bold geometric shapes, which include squares, rectangles, triangles, and circles. These shapes are often combined with linear elements to create a sense of movement and fluidity. Art Deco jewelry is also known for its use of bright colors, such as black, white, green, and blue. These colors are often used in contrast to each other to create a striking effect.

Popular Motifs in Art Deco Jewelry

There are a number of popular motifs that are often found in Art Deco jewelry. These motifs include:

• Geometric shapes
• Linear elements
• Bright colors
• Naturalistic forms
• Florals
• Animals

Value of Art Deco Jewelry

The value of Art Deco jewelry varies depending on a number of factors, including the age, condition, and rarity of the piece. Some of the most valuable Art Deco jewelry pieces are those that were made by famous designers, such as Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Tiffany & Co. These pieces can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.