The retro period, an important evolution

The retro period in jewelry extends from 1935 to 1960. A true jewelry revolution will occur despite the torments that the country will experience over this long period.

Of the'Art Deco with retro jewelry

The period Retro succeeds the period Art Deco which lasted for 10 years. This period is synonymous with geometric lines, abstract shapes and its primary use of platinum as well as diamonds. Retro jewelry is the opposite; it is very often decorated with yellow gold and small colored stones to brighten up the jewelry. Finally, the patterns have taken over through representations of flowers or even animals, the retro jewelry is intended to be quite imposing. The current context of the time has of course influenced the jewelry period. The International Exhibition takes place and marks the break with theArt Deco, precious materials such as platinum are required for the war industry. In addition, periods of war obviously lead to the trade in luxury items, women also enter the war and have to wear less luxurious jewelry than before. Luxury houses then see their activity reduce. This is where Retro jewelry was born.

How to recognize a Retro piece of jewelry?

As mentioned just before, Retro jewelry is made mainly of yellow gold! Its use is massive and therefore becomes a major criterion for recognizing retro jewelry. Then, the retro period embodies the sensuality of forms. We find quite imposing but very elaborate shapes. During this period, jewelers worked with gold in all its aspects: braided gold threads, knots, pleated and openwork, tulle and even lace. Finally, colored stones are also a major characteristic of retro jewelry. These are lower value stones due to the lack of supply linked to events, but they are still large and colorful at an affordable price. Some jewelry is even patriotic in the colors of the Allies blue white red, the collection Hawaii of the House Van Cleef and Arpels is emblematic of this phenomenon. A successful initiative that would become synonymous with freedom in the post-war era.

The ring Tank, retro period icon

There ring Tank appeared during the retro period and obviously owes its name to the tanks of World War II. The ring is then voluminous and imposing with fairly strict geometric shapes. This atypical piece of jewelry still remains elegant and today embodies the trend for XXL jewelry and vintage jewelry.

Find all of our jewelry second-hand on the Retro period right here.