A Guide to the Iconic Styles and Designs of the Roaring Twenties

The Roaring Twenties, a decade of glamour and sophistication, gave birth to a unique and iconic style of engagement rings – Art Deco. Characterized by geometric shapes, symmetrical designs, and bold patterns, Art Deco engagement rings are a testament to the luxury and opulence of the era. In this article, we will delve into the world of Art Deco engagement rings, exploring their characteristic features, iconic designs, and unique twists.

Characteristic Features of Art Deco Engagement Rings

Art Deco engagement rings are known for their distinctive features, which set them apart from other styles. Some of the most notable characteristics include:

• Geometric shapes and symmetrical designs: Art Deco engagement rings often feature geometric shapes, such as triangles, circles, and squares, arranged in symmetrical patterns.
• Popular gemstone cuts: Emerald, Asscher, marquise, and baguette cuts were popular during the Art Deco era, and are often used in modern Art Deco-inspired engagement rings.
• Filigree and milgrain detailing: Intricate filigree and milgrain detailing are common decorative elements in Art Deco engagement rings, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication.
• Colored gemstones: Colored gemstones, such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds, are often used alongside diamonds to add a pop of color and create a bold, eye-catching design.
• Platinum: Platinum was the preferred metal during the Art Deco era, and is still used today in many Art Deco-inspired engagement rings.

Iconic Art Deco Engagement Ring Designs

Art Deco engagement rings are known for their bold and dramatic designs, which often feature intricate geometric patterns and luxurious materials. Some of the most iconic Art Deco engagement ring designs include:

• Halo settings: Halo settings, which feature a circle of diamonds or other gemstones surrounding the center stone, were popular during the Art Deco era. These settings often feature intricate geometric patterns and are a hallmark of Art Deco design.
• Step-cut diamonds: Step-cut diamonds, which feature a series of stepped facets, were favored during the Art Deco era for their clean lines and architectural appearance.
• Three-stone rings: Three-stone rings, which feature a center stone flanked by two smaller stones, were popular during the Art Deco era. These rings often feature tapered baguettes, which add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
• Calibré cut gemstones: Calibré cut gemstones, which are cut to fit together perfectly, were used to create colorful accents and borders in Art Deco engagement rings.

Bold and Dramatic Accents

Art Deco engagement rings are known for their bold and dramatic accents, which add a touch of luxury and sophistication to the design. Some of the most notable accents include:

• Contrasting colors: Contrasting colors, such as black onyx with diamonds, were used to create a dramatic and eye-catching effect.
• Bezel settings: Bezel settings, which feature a rim of metal surrounding the stone, were popular during the Art Deco era for their sleek, streamlined look.
• Cluster designs: Cluster designs, which feature multiple smaller stones arranged in a geometric pattern, were popular during the Art Deco era.
• East-west settings: East-west settings, which feature a horizontally oriented stone, were fashionable during the Art Deco era.

Unique Twists on Art Deco Style

While traditional Art Deco engagement rings are stunning, some designers have put their own unique twist on the style. Some of the most notable unique twists include:

• Asymmetrical designs: Asymmetrical designs, which feature an off-center stone or an uneven pattern, offer a unique twist on traditional Art Deco style.
• Navette or marquise-shaped halos: Navette or marquise-shaped halos, which feature a curved or pointed shape, add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the design.
• Synthetic gemstones: Synthetic gemstones, which are created in a laboratory, offer a bold and colorful alternative to traditional gemstones.
• Architectural influences: Architectural influences, such as skyscraper-inspired designs, were prevalent during the Art Deco era and are still used today in many Art Deco-inspired engagement rings.

Luxurious Materials and Settings

Art Deco engagement rings are known for their luxurious materials and settings, which add a touch of opulence and sophistication to the design. Some of the most notable materials and settings include:

• Mixing yellow gold with platinum or white gold: Mixing yellow gold with platinum or white gold creates a unique and eye-catching effect.
• Cocktail-style engagement rings: Cocktail-style engagement rings, which feature an oversized center stone, were popular during the Art Deco era.
• Openwork designs: Openwork designs, which feature intricate patterns and improved stone visibility, were popular during the Art Deco era.
• Stepped or tiered settings: Stepped or tiered settings, which create a sense of depth and dimension, were popular during the Art Deco era.

Conclusion

Art Deco engagement rings are a testament to the glamour and sophistication of the Roaring Twenties. With their geometric shapes, symmetrical designs, and bold patterns, these rings are a true masterpiece of jewelry design. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Art Deco design or a unique twist on the style, there’s an Art Deco engagement ring to suit every taste and budget. So why not take a step back in time and experience the opulence and luxury of Art Deco engagement rings?