Thursday, March 21, 2013

Modern Jewelry, Vintage Style

The Art Modern period of jewelry design came after WWII and ended around 1960.   Abstract artists began experimenting with jewelry as an art form.   Whimsical motifs such as ballerinas, poodle pins and Christmas trees were often used.  Charm bracelets and ID bracelets also became popular as younger customers sought to create a personalized touch with their jewelry.   Jade, opal, citrine and topaz were often used in place of fine jewelry, as more middle-class customers were seeking beautiful but affordable jewelry.

For those able to afford fine jewelry, the popular gemstones of this period included diamonds, rubies, sapphires and pearls.   Faux pearls also became a widely accepted fashion accessory around this time.  Coco Chanel, the iconic fashion designer, popularized the use of faux jewels in her design, with her classic signature pieces in gold chain and pearls.   Her designs, as well as many others of the period, continue to be popular and collectible today.  

Photo credit: Ebay.

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