While minimal, classic and even vintage style rings may appeal to some brides-to-be, others prefer engagement rings that have more of a bold, art deco style. The bold look came into its own during the art deco era, but throughout history, eye-catching, beautifully ornate rings have certainly remained a constant favourite for many – especially amongst those who like to stand out from the crowd.
The term art deco is one that is used to describe jewellery, clothing, décor and even architecture. It originated in Paris in the 1920s, where the term itself was coined as a result of an exhibition at the World’s Fair held in the French capital in 1925. The exhibit was called Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes (International Exposition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Arts). Around the time of the industrial era, art imitated machine, with many design trends showing this influence through designs that featured distinctive geometric shapes, symmetry and parallel lines. Art deco drew inspiration from cultures such as Egypt, Greece, Mesoamerica, Africa and East Asia, with jewellery and motifs based on shapes like circles, triangles, squares and rectangles, along with intricate geometric patterns with sharp angles, bold, rich colours, abstract elements and symmetry. While the trend itself came and went over the decades, it continues to inspire those with a creative spirit and sense of unique style.
Why Consider Bolder Style Engagement Rings?
What is it about the art deco style that makes bold, retro inspired engagement rings a good choice for modern brides? Here are some of the top features of this ring style…
- Maximum visual impact. It goes without saying that eye-catching jewellery designs are noticed. Whether you opt for colourless stones such as diamonds, or you choose something brighter and bolder, such as tanzanite, emerald or ruby, an art deco style ring is one that will be noticed, without fail.
- Creative and unique. The only real ‘rule’ to consider with this type of ring is making sure that it follows general art deco guidelines. That means geometric lines, sharp angles and symmetry. As far as settings, stones, band and the actual design go however, you can pretty much go as big or small as you choose, to create a ring that is truly unique.
- Ideal for anyone with a love for the jazz age. This style came into being during the roaring Twenties – a time known for its elegance, glamour and glitz. If you are a fan of F. Scott Fitzgerald, the jazz age or Parisian retro chic, this style is sure to be one that resonates.
There are a few options that you may consider when choosing this type of ring for your engagement. If there is an original piece within the groom’s family (or the bride’s, for that matter), you could have it restored by a professional jeweller to fix any wear and tear and make sure that it is as good as new. You could also look in books, search engines or social image bookmarking websites to find images of art deco rings to use as reference, and have your ring made from scratch by a qualified, experienced jeweller. The latter option gives you a lot more room to add your own style and personality, while also giving you full control over details such as the metal of the band, the type of stones, the setting and the overall style of the ring.
Whatever your decision may be, Cape Diamonds is here to assist with all of your engagement ring requirements.