Since time immemorial, numerous eras and movements have influenced Art. All these movements have shaped and structured our perception and reception of art. What we see and perceive as art today is an amalgamation of all these events. It is a beautiful, hybrid mix of influences from each of these periods and forms. Abstract expressionism, dadaism, pop art, and surrealism have all made a subliminal (if not direct) impact on the creation of great masterpieces.
Today, let us look at a significant era in the art world – the Art Deco Era.
The Origin of the Art Deco Era
The art deco period roughly spans the time from 1910 to well into the 1930s. However, it is significantly a product of the “Roaring 20s”. The art deco period got its name from the Exposition International des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, an exhibition that was held in Paris in 1925. This exhibition was dedicated primarily to the arts.
Influencers and Influences
The art deco style had an effect on a large spectrum of visual arts. This included architecture, painting, sculpture, graphic, and decorative art as well. Art deco also went on to influence furniture, fashion, automobiles, cinemas, trains, ocean liners, and believe it or not, but day-to-day objects like cigarette lighters, radios, and even vacuum cleaners!
The art deco period drew inspiration from many sources. The style of the time drew influences from Oriental, African, Indian, and South American art. Incidentally, during the same period, in 1922 to be precise, King Tutankhamen’s tomb was opened. This led to a fascination with Egypt and its culture. This Egyptian influence was more noticeable in decorative arts, architecture, and jewelry. Also, via the medium of theater, the people of the time were exposed to significant art movements like expressionism, futurism, and cubism. All of these also contributed to the formation of art deco.
Understanding Art Deco and Its Influence on Jewelry Making
Simply put, art deco works are symmetrical, geometrical, streamlined, and extremely pleasing to the eye. However, they reek of boldness through their design and color. The culture, spirit, and affluence of the 1920s played a significant role in the creation of the art deco era.
So, when it comes to jewelry, what does art deco mean? Art deco jewelry started off with more feminine forms as they were inspired by the Art Nouveau design period that immediately preceded it. However, as time progressed and a wider exposure manifested, art deco became more influenced by Cubism and became harshly geometrical, symmetrical, and extremely colorful. Art deco was by no means a subtle period. It was loud and in your face!
During the art deco period, a significant change took place in the way jewelry was made. These changes continue to enthrall people even today. If you have to paint a mental picture describing art deco jewelry, imagine smooth jazz influenced by the ornate, classy British and European architecture and design. During this era, the jewelry industry saw that the conventional emphasis on diamonds had diminished. Gemstones like emeralds, rubies, and sapphire replaced diamonds. Darker materials like enamels and black onyx were also introduced which provided an esthetic contrast to diamonds. Elaborate, intricate designs were used in jewelry along with affordable materials like glass and ivory. Platinum was also used a lot instead of gold as it was found to be more durable and flexible. All these changes happened quickly and dramatically changed the entire jewelry landscape, making it way more colorful, ornate, and multicultural.
During that time, changes that impacted culture were also seen almost immediately. Jewelry became much more varied. Brooches, rings, earrings, and pendants made a comeback. Many of them had a combination of diamonds and gemstones. Sleeveless dresses created the need for beautiful bracelets that were worn on the wrist as well as the upper arm. Short haircuts gave rise to the need for elaborate deco earring designs.
What Makes the Art Deco Era So Special?
Why does this 100-year-old genre keep making a comeback? First, it is a product of a classic artistic era and classics never go out of style. Secondly, the jewelry from the Art Deco period stand for supreme quality in terms of attention to detail, design, materials, colors, and craftsmanship (some of the things we so dearly value here at A.JAFFE).
Jewelry pieces created in the art deco era were masterpieces in their own right. Jewelry from the art deco era also represents a society that was leaping toward a brighter future, leaving the war-ridden past behind. It stood for a renaissance of sorts. The jewelry of the period was brave and portrayed limitless creativity. That is why we are always drawn to them even today. Vintage art deco engagement rings sell for astonishing prices today. Art deco jewelry is a timeless classic and will continue to be so for years to come.
Shop Classic Art Deco Jewelry at A.JAFFE
What would it be like to get your hands on something beautiful from the Art Deco period? You would never tire of owning such a prized possession. Check out A.JAFFE’s vintage collection. It contains items from this extremely significant era. Buy something that you will cherish forever.
We have a huge collection of art deco era jewelry that can teleport you to those times. Our range of engagement rings, wedding bands, and pave bands are made from versatile materials and a variety of gemstones.
Are you in love with the idea of buying art deco jewelry? With experts and extremely experienced jewelry designers to guide you through the entire experience as well as a legacy of 130 years, you cannot go wrong when shopping at A.JAFFE!