Introduction

Jewelry has been a symbol of status, wealth, and personal style for centuries. Each era has brought its own unique trends and influences that have shaped the jewelry styles we see today. This article takes a detailed look at the jewelry styles of each decade, from the opulent Art Deco period to the minimalist trends of the 21st century.

The Roaring Twenties

Background

The 1920s, also known as the Roaring Twenties, were a time of economic prosperity and social change. This era saw the rise of the flapper, a new fashion icon who embraced a more daring and independent style.

Jewelry Styles

  • Art Deco: Characterized by geometric shapes, symmetry, and abstract designs, Art Deco jewelry was a reflection of the modernity and industrialism of the time.
  • Diamonds: The diamond became the centerpiece of many pieces, symbolizing wealth and elegance.
  • Gold: White gold and platinum were popular, offering a sleek contrast to the rich diamonds.

Examples

  • Cartier Tank Watch: The iconic Tank watch, with its geometric design and minimalist aesthetic, was a perfect embodiment of Art Deco style.
  • Lola Montes Necklace: Designed by Jean Despres for Cartier, this necklace featured a series of diamonds and sapphires arranged in a zigzag pattern, showcasing the era’s love for abstract designs.

The Glamorous Thirties

Background

The 1930s were marked by the Great Depression, but despite the economic hardships, jewelry continued to be a symbol of luxury and opulence.

Jewelry Styles

  • Retro: Influenced by the Art Deco period, retro jewelry was characterized by rounded shapes and a softer, more romantic feel.
  • Pearls: Pearls became a popular choice, often paired with diamonds to create timeless pieces.
  • Gold: Gold remained the metal of choice, with yellow gold being the most common.

Examples

  • Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra: The Alhambra pattern, featuring a stylized flower, became a signature design of the brand and an iconic piece of jewelry from the era.
  • Cartier Love Bracelet: Designed by Louis Cartier in 1948, the Love bracelet was a symbol of eternal love and has remained a popular piece to this day.

The War Years

Background

The 1940s were dominated by World War II, which had a significant impact on jewelry production and styles.

Jewelry Styles

  • Streamlined: Due to metal rationing, jewelry became more streamlined and less ornate.
  • Platinum: Platinum became the metal of choice due to its strength and rarity.
  • Gemstones: Colored gemstones were used more frequently to add color and interest to pieces.

Examples

  • Tiffany & Co. Ladderback Earrings: These earrings, with their elegant design and use of colored gemstones, were a popular choice during the war years.
  • Cartier Tank Watch: The Tank watch continued to be popular, with its understated elegance and practical design.

The Fifties and Sixties

Background

The 1950s and 1960s were decades of growth and prosperity, with jewelry reflecting the optimism and excitement of the times.

Jewelry Styles

  • Bubble: The 1950s saw the rise of the bubble style, with its rounded shapes and soft, feminine appeal.
  • Mod: The 1960s brought about the mod style, characterized by bright colors, geometric shapes, and abstract designs.
  • Gold: Gold remained popular, with yellow gold being the most common.

Examples

  • David Yurman Cable Bracelet: The cable bracelet, with its interlocking rings, became a signature piece of the 1980s and 1990s.
  • Cartier Panthère: Designed by Jeanne Toussaint in 1968, the Panthère was a bold and striking piece that became an iconic symbol of the brand.

The Seventies and Eighties

Background

The 1970s and 1980s were decades of excess and extravagance, with jewelry reflecting the bold and vibrant fashion trends of the times.

Jewelry Styles

  • Statement: The 1970s saw the rise of statement jewelry, with large, bold pieces that made a statement.
  • Diamonds: Diamonds remained a popular choice, often used in oversized and intricate settings.
  • Platinum: Platinum became the metal of choice for its durability and ability to hold large stones.

Examples

  • Bulgari Serpenti: The Serpenti bracelet, with its iconic snake design, became a symbol of luxury and elegance.
  • Cartier Love Ring: Designed by Louis Cartier in 1969, the Love ring was a symbol of eternal love and has remained a popular piece to this day.

The Nineties and Beyond

Background

The 1990s and beyond saw a shift towards more minimalist and understated styles, with an emphasis on craftsmanship and quality.

Jewelry Styles

  • Minimalist: The 1990s brought about a shift towards minimalist styles, with an emphasis on clean lines and simple designs.
  • Gemstones: Colored gemstones became popular, often set in simple, elegant settings.
  • Gold: Yellow gold and rose gold remained popular, with an emphasis on craftsmanship and quality.

Examples

  • David Yurman Cuff: The cuff, with its interlocking rings and elegant design, became a signature piece of the brand.
  • Harry Winston Opal Ring: Designed by Harry Winston, this ring features a stunning opal set in a simple, elegant setting, showcasing the gemstone’s natural beauty.

Conclusion

Jewelry has been a reflection of the times we live in, and each era has brought its own unique styles and influences. From the opulent Art Deco period to the minimalist trends of the 21st century, jewelry has played a significant role in shaping our cultural heritage. By exploring the jewelry styles of each era, we can gain a deeper understanding of the fashion and social trends that have shaped our world.