Art Deco (1915 – 1935)

Art Deco is an early 20th century western artistic movement that spanned many countries and forms – from architecture to print design to jewelry.  It employed geometric shapes and lines used in repetition to create abstract symmetrical linear motifs.  The motifs were often completed using strong contrasting colors.

Popular materials included onyx, diamonds, carnelian, coral, jade, enamel and platinum.

The excess and glamour of the Roaring 20’s is reflected in the high-end jewels from this time period, including neck-to-knee length sautoirs strung with natural pearls and diamonds to be worn with low-cut “flapper” gowns or jeweled clips to adorn head pieces.