Antique Jewelry: Art Deco Earrings

The Roaring Twenties was a time for women to declare their freedom, independence and individuality. They expressed this sense of liberation in both their fashion and jewelry.

Platinum and diamonds were the materials of choice for Art Deco earrings. They were usually long dangles, perfect showstoppers for the carefree flapper dancing the Charleston.

Antique Art Deco earrings often feature a bold, Jazz Age geometry. Squares and rectangles figure prominently in the designs. Unique diamond shapes like baguettes, emerald cut and Asscher cut diamonds enhanced the geometric motifs.

Precious gemstones such as sapphire, rubies and emeralds often accompany the diamonds in Art Deco earrings. Other techniques for adding contrast, like black enamel, were used liberally. Onyx, coral and other semi-precious stones are sometimes incorporated into antique 1920s earrings. It was considered bold and daring to mix such gemstones with precious metals and diamonds in fine jewelry.