The Art Deco movement was a defining moment in the history of jewelry, marking a period of creativity and renewal in jewelry design. However, having originated in the late 1910s, it was only in 1966 after an exhibition at the Museum of Decorative Arts that this style was named "The Twenty-Five Years" and then "Art Deco".
The style emerged during the First World War in Europe and the United States, but it is the Roaring Twenties that democratize it with an amplification of its popularity thanks to the World Fair in Paris in 1925, where many jewels of Art Deco style were exposed and attracted the attention of the whole world. Indeed, with the war and the men gone to the front, women are emancipated, and contribute, especially by working, to the war effort. They then change their dress, swapping their skirts for simpler and more comfortable pants. The world of jewelry must then adapt to this evolution and this profound change of aesthetic and social codes.
An iconic style of jewelry
This artistic movement, reflected as much in jewelry as in architecture or painting, was influenced by many cultures and styles, including its predecessor, Art Nouveau, but also African primitive art, cubism and ancient Egypt. The jewelry of this era combined this rich cultural heritage with an emphasis on simplicity, geometry and bright colors. Jewelry houses such as Boucheron, Cartier and Van Cleef, to name a few, created jewelry with clean lines and bold designs that stood out as works of art in themselves. To enhance their creations, they use precious stones such as diamonds, emeralds and sapphires, but also semi-precious stones such as onyx, topaz, jade, turquoise and amethyst.
A timeless style
It is thanks to its modernity and timeless designs that the Art Deco style is today a true emblem, having and continuing to mark the history of jewelry. Indeed, the attraction for this era does not cease and some stars proudly wear Art Deco pieces like Rihanna during her show at the Super Bowl 2023 or Kim Kardashian who acquired a beautiful cross belonging to Princess Diana, already convinced that these jewels are timeless accessories that can be worn with modern outfits to add a touch of retro elegance.
"Elegance is the only beauty that never fades." Audrey Hepburn
To conclude, the Art Deco style is a resourceful style that has many years ahead of it. It remains a precursor and an inspiring movement for the designers of today and tomorrow.
If you have any Art Deco jewelry, please feel free to email contact@bellerive-jewelry.com for an estimate. We will be happy to answer you.
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