The Roaring 20s, relates to the decade of the 1920s, a period that changed perceptions and fashion forever in Western culture and society. The exciting time followed the gloom and desperation many suffered through World War I as a novelty, modernity and a break with tradition was in the air.
Modern technology, including the advent of cars and films, brightened up people’s lives. Economic growth spawned prosperity, bringing a boom in consumer goods and construction. The Roaring 20s are looked upon with affection by those interested in fashion and history, and the period was especially known for Art Deco.
Art Deco was the style of design and architecture that originated in Europe, before spreading around the western world. Flappers can be considered as the first independent women. They were young and known for their energetic freedom, as they embraced a lifestyle which was viewed by many as being outrageous, immoral, or downright dangerous. There is no wonder that they and their attitudes are looked upon with affection in modern times.
Here are 4 timeless jewellery trends from the Roaring 20s:
- Diamonds – They are a girl’s best friend, as the song went, which is pretty accurate. There are not many women who do not desire diamonds, with the Art Deco design of the 1920s remaining very popular. Their appearance saw fancy-shaped step cuts and unusual shapes that fitted the persona of Flappers perfectly, like half-moon cuts, kite-shaped cuts, and trapezoid cuts, which many modern women love to emulate. You can see these styles at your nearby antique shop or simply by visiting trusted dealer Kalmar Antiques art deco engagement rings Australia collection. You can find more examples on their website as well as through a quick online search.
- Egyptian Architectural Design – Art Deco saw an influence towards Egyptian architectural design following the finds inside the Tutankhamen grave, which contained 5,000 artefacts. The jeweller Cartier used in many Art Deco designs in their production of their pieces, and this inspired others to do the same. This type of design is still in vogue today.
- Precious Metals – With platinum in abundance, the metal was popularly used to produce rings during the decade, alongside other precious materials. With the ability not to corrode, discolour or tarnish, the natural white colour does not fade to a yellow hue that meant a sign of ageing; it remains a perfect contrast to diamonds and any other colours, which was why people during that period preferred to have their gems mounted on a platinum piece. Daring necklaces, which were perfectly suited to new lower necklines, were and continue to be a perfect combination. A visit to a museum could be an ideal way of finding out more about the metals and gemstones used during this period.
- Combined Gemstones & Other Ornamental Stones – The Art Deco period of the Roaring 20s saw the use of a mix of gemstones and ornamental stones such as jade, coral and onyx, making pieces much more colourful and attractive to the wearers who wanted to stand out and be noticed. The gemstones were much more exciting than some of the designs of the past and continues to attract modern wearers of a similar mindset.
Many items of jewellery from the 20s are still very much in fashion today. There’s no better way to send out a statement of attitude with a nod to history than emulating the innovators of yesteryear.