The 1950s and 1960s: Elegance and Innovation

The 1950s and 1960s marked a pivotal time in jewelry design, blending the refined sophistication of the post-war era with the bold experimentation of the cultural revolution. These two decades saw a dramatic evolution, from timeless glamour to daring modernism, each reflecting the social and cultural transformations of the times. Let’s explore the defining jewelry trends of the 1950s and 1960s.

The 1950s: Hollywood Glamour and Refined Sophistication

In the 1950s, jewelry became a symbol of prosperity and elegance, fueled by the rise of Hollywood’s Golden Age and a renewed focus on femininity. This era celebrated timeless designs that complemented the glamorous fashions of the time.

Key Characteristics

1. Diamond Prominence:

Diamonds reigned supreme, epitomizing luxury and romance. Brooches, necklaces, and earrings adorned with intricate diamond arrangements were the ultimate status symbols.

2. Natural and Feminine Motifs:

Floral, bow, and ribbon designs were popular, highlighting a delicate, ladylike aesthetic. These motifs added a romantic touch to both fine and costume jewelry.

3. Platinum and Gold Settings:

White gold and platinum dominated the decade, often paired with diamonds and pearls. The cool-toned metals enhanced the sparkle of the stones, creating an air of refinement.

4. Statement Necklaces and Earrings:

Women embraced bib necklaces, chokers, and dramatic chandelier earrings for formal occasions, inspired by Hollywood starlets like Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn.

Famous Designers and Pieces

• Harry Winston: Known as the “King of Diamonds,” Winston’s designs adorned celebrities and royalty, including Marilyn Monroe’s iconic jewels in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.

• Cartier: The maison’s intricate diamond brooches and cocktail rings captured the elegance of the era.

• Van Cleef & Arpels Zip Necklace: A groundbreaking design that doubled as a necklace and a zipper, showcasing innovation and creativity.

The 1960s: Modernism and Pop Culture Revolution

The 1960s ushered in a wave of change, driven by the Space Age, the cultural revolution, and the rise of modern art. Jewelry became more daring and experimental, moving away from traditional designs to embrace bold shapes, colors, and materials.

Key Characteristics

1. Geometric and Abstract Designs:

Jewelry adopted clean, modern lines and abstract forms influenced by contemporary art movements such as Minimalism and Futurism.

2. Colorful Gemstones and Enamel:

Vibrant stones like coral, turquoise, and onyx were paired with colorful enamel accents, creating playful and eye-catching designs.

3. Costume Jewelry Boom:

Affordable yet stylish, costume jewelry became widely popular thanks to designers like Coco Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent. These pieces allowed women to experiment with bold styles without the expense of fine jewelry.

4. Space Age and Futuristic Themes:

Inspired by the race to the moon, jewelry featured sleek, futuristic designs with metallic finishes and unconventional materials like lucite and plastic.

Famous Designers and Pieces

• David Webb: Renowned for bold, colorful pieces that often featured animal motifs and enamel work.

• Georg Jensen: Introduced minimalist silver designs that epitomized Scandinavian modernism.

• Tiffany & Co.: Elsa Peretti’s organic, flowing forms debuted in the 1960s and laid the foundation for timeless contemporary design.

Why Collect Jewelry from the 1950s and 1960s?

Jewelry from the 1950s offers classic sophistication with timeless appeal, while the 1960s showcases creativity and a willingness to break boundaries. Collecting pieces from these decades provides a glimpse into a transformative time in fashion and culture. Whether it’s a diamond brooch from the 1950s or a colorful enamel necklace from the 1960s, each piece tells a unique story.

In Conclusion

The 1950s and 1960s were two decades of distinct yet equally fascinating jewelry styles. From the elegance and femininity of the 1950s to the bold and modern experimentation of the 1960s, this era offers a treasure trove of designs for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Which decade’s style resonates most with you? Share your thoughts and favorite pieces in the comments!