A Look At Vintage Jewelry

Often over looked, vintage jewelry is a subject that alludes most. I for one was not well versed in the different styles until recently and that’s a shame! The jewelry of the past was gorgeous and often resourceful; made with glass, different types of plastic, wood, shells, fabric, cheaper materials plated with thin layers of gold. Women even made their own jewelry at home in some cases! With all this variety it’s crazy how under appreciated it is. I’ve gathered a rather large collection of images as I don’t think I could explain with human language how pretty some of these pieces were! Enjoy today’s look at 1940’s-50’s jewelry and tell me what your favorite piece is!

1940’s

The 1940’s were a time of rationing and making do. With the lingering effects of the great depression and war lingering ahead materials were often short and sacrifices had to be made. Jewelry was largely art-deco, D.I.Y., and costume. The rise of masculine fashion also prompted jewelry to be bigger and flashier. The jewelry was so big that you were only supposed to wear two pieces at a time so as not to over do yourself!

Bangles, beaded necklaces, over sized earrings and brooches were all popular items for those who could afford to buy. While jewelry was more affordable at the time some women opted to make it themselves, usually out of fabric. Common themes of jewelry included, but were no limited to, patriotic, novelty, nature, flowers, fruits, and vegetables.

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Beaded necklaces were a popular trend in the 40’s and were considered a staple piece, though not as much as an earring and brooch set.

A large earring and brooch set was a must have staple! Women loved the bright and fun shapes and most owned at least one matching set.

Bangles were also in and as we know would continue to be in through the 50s!

Ads for jewelry were an important part of maintaining morale during the war. Ads could now be made in color and helped to keep women feeling patriotic.

1950’s

The 1950’s didn’t vary drastically from the 40’s but it definitely brought new elements to the table. Like the 40’s, the 50’s had it’s own essentials; bangles, earrings, charm bracelets, and the ever classic pearls. Earrings and brooches were still in yet the shape differed from the 40’s, now consisting of snowflakes, flowers, leafs and novelty shapes.

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Costume jewelry was still in and helped make looking good affordable to many more women. Costume jewelry was now, but not exclusively, made of gold or silver without many stones.

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Chokers and bib necklaces were also a staple of any fashionista’s wardrobe. Made with pearls, stones, and beads in a wide variety of colors. Choker type necklaces, as well as pearls, were often used to dress up an outfit and therefor were not part of everyday wear for most women.

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