Travel Through Time
Art Deco jewellery emerged during an era of modern architecture, glamorous evenings and growing social freedom. Designers moved away from the flowing forms of earlier periods and embraced symmetry, contrast and confident geometric lines.
Diamonds were frequently paired with vivid sapphires, emeralds, rubies or black onyx, creating jewellery that felt daring, modern and unmistakably sophisticated.
Antique and vintage jewellery should be handled with consideration. Avoid knocks, harsh chemicals and sudden temperature changes. Delicate settings, fine milgrain and older stone cuts benefit from regular professional inspection.
Details to Discover
Strong symmetry, stepped forms, chevrons, fans and architectural compositions are among the era’s most recognisable features.
Black onyx and richly coloured gemstones were used to create striking contrast against diamonds and pale precious metals.
Baguette, French-cut and calibre-cut stones allowed gems to become an integral part of the geometric design.
Marcus Tempus Heritage Jewellery
Vintage jewellery may show gentle signs of age, previous resizing or historic restoration. These details form part of its journey and are considered carefully when each piece is assessed.
We examine the condition of the setting, gemstones and principal components before a heritage piece is offered for sale.
Dates and periods are based on design, construction, materials, hallmarks and available evidence. Where an exact date cannot be confirmed, we describe the piece using the most appropriate period or style attribution.
Ask About This Piece →Questions & Answers
Art Deco jewellery refers to designs associated with the 1920s and 1930s, characterised by strong geometry, symmetry, contrasting colour and the use of platinum or white gold. The style was shaped by modern architecture, technology, travel and the decorative arts.
Typical clues include stepped or fan-shaped forms, precise symmetry, platinum construction, milgrain edges and baguette, French-cut or calibre-cut stones. Hallmarks, construction and gemstone cuts should always be considered together.
Diamonds were frequently combined with onyx, sapphire, emerald and ruby to create dramatic contrast. Coral and other coloured materials also appeared in distinctive period designs.
The piece should be professionally assessed before cleaning. Fine milgrain, older settings, fragile gemstones and historic repairs may make ultrasonic or steam cleaning unsuitable.
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