We have been getting quite a few requests over the years to create Art Deco inspired engagement rings. The Art Deco period was during the Roaring 20’s through 1930’s, after WWI. The name comes from the Paris World’s Fair in 1925, called the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes (translated to the International Exposition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Arts). This movement of art & modern industry was driven by advances in innovation and technology with developments in machinery and new techniques.

The jewelry worn reflected the boldness of the times, with the use of contrasting colors and shapes. We like to create this feeling in our work by combining diamonds with colored gemstones. Art Deco-style embraces geometric shapes, symmetry, and clean lines. Art Deco engagement rings often use colored gemstones, like Emerald, Ruby, or Sapphire for the center stone. Diamonds in various shapes are quite popular, as well.

Since this period was post war, platinum was one of the main metals used, allowing there to be less metal required for stone setting. The use of filigree was also popular, and platinum created strength for durability in detailed designs. Using small diamond side stones was also common, and pavé settings were evolving during this time. This had a great influence on creating new possibilities for designs.

During the Art Deco period, technology was really moving. Invisible settings were developed by Van Cleef & Arpels, where no metal is visible, but instead the gemstones are held in metal beneath the surface. New ways of cutting gemstones into shapes were developed, as well as the creation of different synthetic gemstones. Today we have access to beautiful lab-created diamonds and other gemstones to work around different budgets.

In addition to the technological aspects of the Art Deco Movement, there was influence from the Far East & India in stone cutting and the gemstones used, as well as an Egyptian revival. Fine gemstones including lapis lazuli, turquoise, jade, and onyx were introduced into designs and different colors of gemstones were popular. A process was also developed to cultivate pearls, which were worn in long, often multiple strands.

For our engagement ring designs, we prefer using stones harder on the Mohs scales such as diamonds (the hardest) and blue and other colors of sapphires for lifelong wear. Of course, there is also the option to bring your family ring and we will be able to create a new design using your stones to add sentimental value for generations to come. The platinum ring above was custom designed for Ben with his yellow sapphire. The aquamarine ring below was created for Mat from New Hampshire, using diamonds from his mother’s engagement ring. Thank you for the opportunity to create these one-of-a-kind pieces of art jewelry!