RETRO PERIOD: (1940-1950’s)

A second war changes available materials and pushes women further and further into positions of
power. Jewelry and fashion reflect these changes as pieces are produced with simple lines and
large three dimensional styling which often used rose and green gold mounts and links. It was a
return to “bold” romanticism as seen in new interpretations of such favorite forms as flowers,
sprays and bows. Ruby and diamond combinations were in fashion and baguette cuts were
popular. Star rubies and sapphires and other cabochons were in vogue. Pearls fell out of favor
due to the difficulty of the market and World War II. The Cartier “tank” styling became popular
as exhibited in the design of gents and ladies rectangular wristwatches.

**Note that labels designate styles and periods. Many styles over-lap during periods of time and
nothing precisely begins and ends as we might wish in our attempt to classify antique jewelry.
The above designations of Periods/Styles must be considered only a GUIDE to learn about
Vintage Jewelry.

Reference Materials:

Compete Price Guide to Antique Jewelry-First Edition
Richard E. Gilbert and James H. Wolf

Antique Jewelry History Seminar N.A.J.A. Annual Conference
Karen Lorene

Thomas Elliott, G.J.G (GIA)
President
North American Gemological Laboratory, LLC
13400 NE 20th St
Suite 19
Bellevue, WA 98005
USA
425-637-0075 off
425-283-0449 fax