The short answer: to get the art deco look, choose geometric lines, symmetry, step cut or baguette stones, and details such as milgrain and engraving. The style comes from the 1920s and 1930s, and it is bold, elegant and highly structured.
Art deco jewellery grew from the 1920s and 1930s and is known for sharp geometry, strong contrast and glamorous detail. Today it is a favourite for couples who like a vintage feel with a graphic edge. Here is how to build the look.
The key features
- Geometry: squares, rectangles, octagons and stepped shapes.
- Symmetry: balanced, mirrored designs.
- Contrast: white stones against dark accents such as black onyx or deep sapphire.
- Fine detail: milgrain edges and engraved patterns.
Where the style came from
Art deco took its name from a major exhibition of decorative arts held in Paris in the 1920s. It drew on the speed and glamour of the machine age, skyscrapers and ocean liners, and on interest in ancient Egyptian and other designs. Platinum had become easier to work, which let jewellers make fine, strong settings with precise lines. That mix of glamour and precision is what gives the style its lasting appeal.
Stone choices
Emerald cuts, Asscher cuts and baguettes suit the style because of their straight lines. Old cut round stones also feel authentic. Calibre cut gemstones, which are cut to fit a pattern, are a hallmark of the era. See old mine and old European cut diamonds.
Setting ideas
- A three stone ring with tapered baguettes.
- A square or octagonal halo.
- A bezel with milgrain.
- Stepped shoulders that echo the stone.
Metal
Platinum and white gold were the typical metals of the era, and they give the crisp, cool look. Yellow gold and rose gold also work, and they warm the style.
Details to add
Milgrain, the tiny beading along an edge, softens the geometry. Engraving can run along the band in a repeating pattern. Pierced work and openwork add lightness.
Colour in art deco
The era loved strong colour contrast. Calibre cut sapphires, rubies and emeralds were often set beside diamonds in geometric patterns. A deep blue sapphire beside white diamonds is a classic combination, and black onyx adds drama. If you want colour, we can design a pattern of coloured stones that follows the geometry of the ring.
Making it modern
You can borrow the geometry without making a replica. A clean art deco inspired solitaire in an emerald cut, with slim stepped shoulders, feels contemporary and refined. See architectural and geometric rings.
Wedding bands
Art deco rings often need a band that follows their shape. A stepped or angled band can sit flush against the ring, or a plain band can let the ring stand alone. We plan the pair together.
How to choose
- Choose a geometric shape.
- Decide on symmetry and the number of stones.
- Pick the metal and the level of detail.
- Check the design in a render.
See settings for an Asscher cut and settings for an emerald cut, and browse diamonds. Nothing is made until you approve the design in writing, and our standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, which can vary with your location and how busy we are. Pieces start from £600.
Frequently asked questions
Is art deco the same as vintage? It is one vintage style, from the 1920s and 1930s.
Can you make an art deco style ring with a lab grown diamond? Yes, the style is about design, not origin.
Do I need an old stone? No, modern cuts work well.
Is art deco suitable for daily wear? Yes, when the corners of step cut stones are protected.
Can I order from overseas? Yes, by video consultation, with insured, tracked FedEx delivery.