Few design movements capture the spirit of their time quite like Art Deco. Bold, glamorous and unmistakably modern, the style reflected a world emerging from war and stepping confidently into a new era of innovation, freedom and artistic experimentation. Today, Art Deco jewellery remains one of the most sought-after periods in antique and vintage design, celebrated for its striking geometry, vibrant colour combinations and impeccable craftsmanship. To better understand what continues to draw collectors to this remarkable period, we spoke with our resident Antiques Expert Isabelle from our Adelaide Arcade boutique about the history and hallmarks of Art Deco jewellery.
Shop Art Deco Rings | Gerard McCabe
THE ORIGINS OF THE ART DECO ERA
The term “Art Deco” originates from the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, a major design exhibition held in Paris in 1925. The exhibition celebrated a new style that embraced modernity, craftsmanship and decorative arts, and its influence quickly spread across Europe, America and beyond.
Although the name emerged in the mid-1920s, the Art Deco jewellery period is generally considered to span from around 1920 to the late 1930s. It followed the softer, nature-inspired designs of the Edwardian and Art Nouveau eras, replacing flowing curves with clean lines and confident structure.
This shift reflected broader cultural changes taking place at the time. Society was entering a modern age shaped by technological progress, urbanisation and shifting social roles. Jewellery design began to mirror this new outlook, favouring sleek forms and architectural precision.
The period was also shaped by a growing fascination with global cultures and archaeological discoveries. Isabelle notes that designers were looking far beyond Europe for inspiration. “Art Deco designers drew inspiration from world cultures and ancient civilisations,” explains our Antiques Expert, Isabelle. Egyptian, Indian, Chinese and Aztec motifs all influenced the patterns, colours and forms seen in jewellery from the period.
Shop Art Deco Earrings | Gerard McCabe
DISTINCTIVE FEATURES OF ART DECO JEWELLERY
Art Deco jewellery is immediately recognisable thanks to its bold visual language. Designs often feature strong geometric shapes such as rectangles, triangles and stepped forms, arranged in precise, symmetrical compositions.
“Strong silhouettes, symmetry and geometric framing would come to define the Art Deco era,” Isabelle notes. This focus on structure gave jewellery from the period a striking architectural quality.
Jewellers also embraced new techniques and materials that allowed for greater precision and contrast. Platinum became a favourite metal due to its strength and ability to hold intricate settings. Diamonds were widely used, often cut into baguette, emerald or calibre shapes to emphasise the geometric style. These were frequently combined with richly coloured gemstones such as sapphires, emeralds, rubies and onyx to create dramatic contrasts. Discover our range of Art Deco jewellery here.
Shop Art Deco Brooches | Gerard McCabe
DO YOU OWN ART DECO JEWELLERY?
Authentic Art Deco jewellery remains highly sought after today. Our buying team are always searching for exceptional Art Deco pieces to add to our collection. If any of these characteristics sound like jewellery you may own and are considering selling, we would love to hear from you. Simply complete our online enquiry form or contact our team directly at 08 8232 1000 to start the conversation.
Our team of jewellery experts can also assist with repairs, remodelling and restorations, ensuring your Art Deco pieces are cared for with the utmost skill and attention. Whether you want to refresh a treasured item, adapt it to suit your style, or preserve its historic character, our specialists are here to help. Contact our experts today to discuss how we can help bring your jewellery back to its former glory.
Why Art Deco Still Captivates Today
Nearly a century after its peak, the Art Deco era continues to capture the imagination nearly a century later. For collectors and admirers alike, these jewels are a reflection of a remarkable moment in history when creativity, craftsmanship and modern optimism came together to shape a bold new aesthetic.
If you would like to experience the beauty of this remarkable era for yourself, we invite you to explore our collection of Art Deco jewellery. Alongside these pieces, you will also discover jewellery from many other antique periods, available both in-store at our Adelaide Arcade and Rundle Mall Plaza boutiques or online.
