The 1940s (Retro)

The jewelry period dating from 1935 to 1950, often referred to as Retro, was set against the backdrop of economic depression and World War II. As women entered the workforce and the clothing moved to a more subdued and simple place, jewelry stepped into fill the fashion void. Retro jewelry was all about bigger, bolder, and brighter. Taking cues from the fantasy and glamour of Hollywood, jewelry was created on a larger scale than it had been for decades. With platinum reserved for the war effort, gold resurged in popularity, and different colors of gold were created in shades of rose and green. With the limited supply of diamonds and precious gemstones, jewelers looked to citrine, amethyst, topaz, and aquamarine to bring color and character to a piece. Bold cocktail rings with large rectangular cut gemstones, oversized gold bracelets with links and buckles, and whimsical charm bracelets were the signature pieces of the period. Common motifs included birds, flower baskets, dancers, bows and shells.