The Definitive Guide to Art Deco Engagement Rings

So you've been scrolling online and keep getting drawn to "Art Deco" rings and now you want to learn all about them? Start here! We'll answer some of the most common questions about Art Deco Era engagement rings and show you some of our fave styles. Stick around to see how to pair wedding bands with Art Deco style rings.

TLDR: Go here to view our entire collection of authentic vintage Art Deco rings.

Platinum Art Deco Engagement Ring

When was the Art Deco Era?

1920-1935

The Art Deco period was an interesting period that began after World War I. It was the time of flappers and short haircuts and was a bold period of time.

Unlike the preceding jewelry eras—the Victorian and Edwardian eras—the Art Deco Era does not have a Royal namesake. The period from 1916-1935 was instead a celebration of the masses thanks to a booming economy that allowed more and more people to enjoy the finer things in life. The Roaring Twenties, as this period is more popularly known, is famous for jazz, flamboyance, and boldness of character. Vintage Art Deco engagement rings embody this brilliant, rebellious spirit and are a perfect option for those craving something a bit more unique.

Asscher Cut Diamond Art Deco Ring

Art Deco Era Jewelry Characteristics

Art Deco jewelry is most known for its geometric shapes. No longer lacy and feminine like the Edwardian pieces, these pieces had a focus on the vertical line. Clean lines of baguettes and calibre cut stones are markers of this era.

Diamond and Emerald Art Deco Ring

Bold, clean, and ever-so-sleek designs. Authentic Art Deco engagement rings have amazing details that mark a visually distinct era in history. Our collection of exceptional Art Deco Era rings featuring linear themes, unique shapes, intricate platinum details, old cut diamonds, and surprising designs.

Sharp, clean designs are prominent in jewelry of this time. As men and women cast off the restraints of Prohibition and antiquated customs, jewelers became more progressive as well, moving in a direction in complete opposition to the intricate, detailed, floral designs of previous eras. Ditching lace and lattice-work for linear and geometric patterns, Art Deco Era engagement rings make a bold statement and are clear in their message: fun, straightforward and unbreakable.

Sapphire and Diamond Art Deco Toi et Moi Ring

Instead of relying on complex patterns and delicate metal-working techniques, Art Deco jewelers sought to bring out the charisma of the stones themselves. Engagement bands featured a linear design with lines pointing toward the stones to showcase the magnificent cuts, colors, and play of light.

Platinum vs Gold

Platinum was the prominent metal of the time so most Art Deco rings you see will tend to be in this metal. Although whiter diamonds are typically used when a setting is platinum, variety is still abundant—from gorgeous diamonds to gems encompassing every color of the rainbow. There are many options to choose from as these Art Deco can range from clean and simple to rings you could never imagine until you see them.

If you (or your partner) are drawn to Art Deco style rings - there's a good chance you (or she) is a "platinum girl" vs a "gold girl". This is a good piece of information to know on your ring buying journey!

Carré Cut Diamond Art Deco Ring

Here are a couple examples of an Art Deco engagement ring in 10kt gold:

The Donny Ring - 1.90ct Old Mine Cut Diamond

$10,500

The Barbara Ring - 0.68ct Old European Cut Diamond

$3,900

Gemstones

Emeralds, Rubies, and Sapphires are common in Art Deco pieces, especially as accents. Although gemstones were also used in prior eras, jewelers of the Art Deco Era took more risks and created more "works of art" with their designs.

Here are some of our favorite uses of gemstones in vintage Art Deco Engagement Rings:

Emerald Art Deco Rings

Art Deco ring with emerald accents

Platinum Art Deco Ring Emeralds

Ruby Art Deco Rings

Art Deco Ring with a Ruby

Sapphire Art Deco Rings

Art Deco Tiffany Ring with Sapphire

Art Deco sapphire halo ring

Art Deco Diamond Sapphire toi et moi ring

Wedding Band Pairings for Art Deco Rings

Looking for inspo on how to pair a wedding band with your Art Deco ring? As with most things in fine jewelry, there is no "one size fits all" answer - it all comes down to personal preference!

Below are some of our staff-favorite ways to pair a wedding band with an Art Deco ring:

Art Deco Marquise Diamond paired with a simple platinum band

We love the simple elegance that this platinum Perfect band adds to this elongated and divine ring. Pairing this with a more simple band allows this ring with her pop of color to remain the star of the show.

marquise art deco ring with simple wedding band

Here's an example of a Vintage Tiffany & Co Art Deco Ring paired with our Bonny diamond eternity band.

We love the vibrant look that the Bonny band brings to any ring stack. Here she is paired with the intricate Alyse ring to add some sleek baguettes to an already incredible piece.

Diamond eternity wedding band with art deco engagement ring

Here's an example of a two-tone Art Deco ring paired with a curved diamond wedding band.

We love the Curved Allure band paired with the Parker ring for her fun play on the bezel setting, and extra diamonds for an added pop of sparkle. The Parker ring nestles into the Curved Allure perfectly, making her a lovely choice if you desire something with more of a flush fit.