Jewelry of the 1930s, 1940s, 1950s and 1960s: what was it?

1930

costume jewelry

Due to the Depression of the 1930s, the artistic direction changed. Costume jewelry was considered disposable jewelry and was only popular for a limited time. Most people could no longer afford the Art Deco styles that were born in the 1920s, although some of the gem/diamond cuts have endured to this day. Costume jewelry and antique jewelry are sometimes considered synonymous, but most jewelers say that antique jewelry began before the 1930s. Much of the jewelry would feature a large amount of metal and perhaps a rhinestones or small clusters. of rhinestones Dress brooches developed in this era and remained in style until the 1950s. One of the most important designers from the 1930s was Margaret de Patta, specializing in the Modern Art and Constructivism movement.

1940

Because of the war, there were restrictions on the use of precious metals, therefore, silver gilt and sterling silver began to be used in the construction of jewelry. “Artificial” such as imitation pearls, imitation emeralds, and rhinestones were promoted, in addition to the use of glass and plastic. Clip-on earrings, brooches, and pins became very popular.

Modernist artists of the “German School” who sought protection from the Nazi regime came to the United States before and during World War II. These artists influenced American arts with crafts in the development of schools, such as Black Mountain College in North Carolina and Cranbrook Academy in Michigan. During the war, goldsmithing became an occupational therapy program for soldiers who had served their country. Two women who stood out in this movement were Mrs. Vanderbilt Webb and jeweler/metalworker Margret Craver.

The recognized jewelry artists of the 1940s were the following:

1. Margaret De Patta
2. Sam Craver
3. Paul Lobel
4. Ed Wiener
5. Art Smith

1950

By day: gold jewelry without rhinestones.
Evening: Diamonds

In the early 1950s, retro 1940s jewelry was still popular, as were Victorian ties. Later, Hollywood glamor permeated the style of jewelry in the 1950s with movie stars: Elizabeth Taylor, Marlon Brando, Elvis Pressley and Marilyn Monroe. Its classic beauty and timeless presence contributed to the style that developed, creating a bold sophistication.

Types of jewelry:

lucite jewelry
Multi-strand necklaces made from large beads
Diamond rhinestones (crystal or transparent)
Modernist jewelry for “beatniks”
white jewelry for summer

Wearing large jewelry accented with smaller pieces was a trend in the 1950s, as seen in “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.” Usually a larger piece was worn, for example a choker with a small watch and earrings to complement it. Nature was the main inspiration for jewelry designers of this period. Floral symbols, snowflakes, birds, and geometric patterns were commonly used. Naturally colored stones, such as blues, greens, reds, and golds, were often seen encrusted with diamonds. Plastics became popular as the 1960s approached.

1960

Art is a reflection of society and the jewelry designs of the 1960s exemplify that. It was a fashion revolution as well as a time of riots around the world. Plastics were king and necklaces and earrings were the preferred type of jewelry. Chokers were replaced by longer chains and the popularity of brooches began to wane. Golds and ambers were the primary colors complemented by the bold colors of Mod jewelry such as bright pink, orange, lime and very yellow. Jewelry shapes in the 1960s were mostly circular and oval.

jeweler’s

Ethnic jewelry: Egyptian, Asian and East Indian
hippie jewelry love beads
plastic bangles
Giant wildlife pendants, especially owls.
medieval patterns
Art Nouveau styles