Design & Historical Context |
Art Deco jewelry, also known as Jazz Age jewelry, became popular in the 1920s and remained in style through the 1930s. It was named after the Exposition International des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, a exhibition held in Paris in 1925 that was largely dedicated to the jewelry arts. This style was inspired by a variety of cultural and artistic movements, such as Oriental, African, and South American art, as well as Cubism and Fauvism. Art Deco jewelry is known for its sharp, straight lines and emphasis on modernity and the machine age.
During the Art Deco era, there were significant improvements in diamond cutting techniques, which made diamonds more radiant and sparkling than ever before. This, along with increased prosperity, allowed more people to afford diamond jewelry and engagement rings. Additionally, new casting techniques made it possible to produce more intricate and detailed settings.
Art Deco jewelry was not only fashionable but also reflected the social and cultural changes of the time. The bold, modern design of Art Deco jewelry reflected the liberation and empowerment of women during the 1920s and 1930s. Today, Art Deco jewelry is highly sought after by collectors and is often featured in museum exhibitions and high-end auctions.
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Materials & Craftsmanship |
amethyst
Amethyst is a variety of quartz that is prized for its beautiful purple color. It is the birthstone for February and is often used in jewelry. The color of amethyst ranges from light to dark purple, and it can be found in various parts of the world, including Brazil, Uruguay, and Madagascar.
Amethyst is a hard and durable gemstone, making it suitable for use in all types of jewelry. It is also believed to have certain healing properties and is often used in crystal healing practices. In ancient Greece, amethyst was thought to ward off drunkenness and is still believed by some to have sobering and calming effects.
The color of amethyst is caused by impurities of iron and aluminum within the crystal. The deeper the color of the amethyst, the more valuable it is considered to be. Amethyst is often cut into faceted stones or shaped into cabochons for use in jewelry. It is also used in other decorative items such as figurines and vases.
In addition to its beauty and healing properties, amethyst is also popular for its affordability compared to other precious gemstones. It is a popular choice for use in engagement and wedding rings, as well as other types of jewelry.
18k
18k gold is a type of gold alloy that is commonly used in jewelry making. It is made up of 75% gold and 25% other metals, such as copper, silver, or palladium. The addition of other metals helps to increase the durability and strength of the gold, making it more suitable for use in jewelry. 18k gold is softer and more prone to scratching than higher karat golds, such as 22k or 24k, but it is still a popular choice for jewelry because of its warm, yellow color and good resistance to tarnishing. It is also less expensive than higher karat golds due to the smaller amount of gold used in the alloy. 18k gold is a popular choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewelry items.
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