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What’s old is new again: The Great Gatsby effect

Vintage appreciation: A nod to glitz and glamour

14-karat yellow and white gold ring by Zeghani by Simon with diamonds (.93 ctw).
14-karat yellow and white gold ring by Zeghani by Simon with diamonds (.93 ctw).

While consumers want jewellery reminiscent of art deco’s euphoria, they also crave something that speaks to their individual style.

Chila believes clients are looking for timeless designs that are wearable, while also marking a special occasion. “Whether it’s the perfect pair of diamond earrings that are given as an exceptional gift or a statement cocktail ring the customer is buying for herself, people want pieces that uniquely express and celebrate their good taste.”

Findlay recognizes there is a lot of repurposing, such as turning an antique brooch into a pendant. From Steampunk fashion enthusiasts to wealthy foreigners to working women, Findlay sees her customers looking to fill in gaps with favourite colours and stones, while also embracing the vintage motif.

Here are some Gatsby-inspired breakout trends channelling the creativity and extravagance of the 1920s:

Hair ornaments

Handcrafted earrings by Omi Privé with emerald-cut emeralds (4.80 ctw) accented with brilliant diamonds (1 ctw) and set in platinum and 18-karat yellow gold.
Handcrafted earrings by Omi Privé with emerald-cut emeralds (4.80 ctw) accented with brilliant diamonds (1 ctw) and set in platinum and 18-karat yellow gold.

In the 1920s, a flapper could be easily spotted at a speakeasy by her signature aigrette, a headpiece adorned with jewels and feathers. Perhaps the standout piece from the film was the one worn by Daisy, a recreation based on drawings from Tiffany’s archives. There is already a re-emergence of ornate headpieces, and not just at weddings, but for everyday wear as well.

Strong lines, bold colours

From cocktail rings to pendants, Jazz Age-jewels evoke the daring spirit of an exuberant generation through brightly coloured gemstones and prominent geometric shapes. These intricate patterns are surfacing again, as jewellers re-interpret the trend with symbolism and dazzling colours.

Long, layered strands

Ropes of pearls and tassel-ended sautoirs are classic art deco looks made famous by flappers and are now making their way back into the mainstream. The experts at Tiffany believe long pearl tassel necklaces are one of the more significant trends inspired by Gatsby, notably when they are combined with other complementary pieces.

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