Sunday, April 26, 2009

1940's Jewelry and Retro Modern Style


During the 1940's, many materials previously used in jewelry design were required for the war effort. Pot metal, silver and platinum became not just scarce, but in some instances illegal for use for commercial purposes. So designers turned to other materials and developed new designs as the war effort continued.

Yellow gold and rose gold, set with just a few clear and colored rhinestones, which had become scarce, replaced earlier materials. Art Deco, with it's geometric designs, was replaced by the more curvilinear Retro Modern style. Large cocktail rings, oversize bracelets, snake chains and bright, bold brooches with a single massively cut rhinestone became fashionable. The bracelet above is a perfect example of retro modern style from the late 40's.

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