Design & Historical Context |
The jewelry industry was significantly impacted by the onset of World War II in the 1940s. Precious metals, particularly platinum, became scarce and in some cases were even banned from being sold. Palladium was used as a substitute for platinum in the war effort. In order to make the most of the limited supply of gold, a low karat gold alloy with a higher percentage of copper was used. This resulted in gold with a subtle, reddish hue, but through the use of different alloys, gold was able to appear in a range of colors within a single piece. Gold was also manipulated in various ways, such as being woven, braided, and coiled. Techniques like resilla, cannetille, and lacy filigree patterns reappeared in jewelry. Different textures were also used within a single design, with matte finishes being placed next to bright finishes to accentuate the design. Gold became the primary metal used in jewelry during the 1940s and 1950s.
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Materials & Craftsmanship |
Brilliant-cut diamond
The round brilliant cut is a type of diamond cut that was developed in the early 1900s and is now the most popular and widely used diamond cut. It is characterized by a circular girdle and 58 facets, which are small, flat surfaces that are cut into the diamond to create a specific shape and enhance its sparkle and brilliance. Unlike the old European cut, the round brilliant cut does not have a culet (the bottom edge of the diamond).
The round brilliant cut was designed to maximize the fire and brilliance of a diamond, and it has become the standard cut for diamonds. It is known for its bright, sparkling appearance and is often used in engagement rings and other high-end jewelry. The round brilliant cut became prevalent during the Art Deco and Retro periods and is still widely used today.
Round brilliant cut diamonds are typically more expensive than diamonds with other cuts because they require more labor and material to produce. However, they are considered the highest quality and most desirable type of diamond cut, and they are a popular choice for those who want the highest level of sparkle and brilliance in their jewelry.
14k
14k gold is a popular choice for use in jewelry because it is durable, yet still relatively affordable compared to higher karat golds like 18k or 24k. It is made up of 58.5% pure gold and is mixed with other metals to make it harder and more durable. 14k gold is available in a range of colors, including yellow, white, and rose, and is commonly used in a variety of jewelry pieces such as rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. One of the advantages of 14k gold is that it is more resistant to wear and tear than pure gold, which makes it suitable for everyday wear. However, it is still softer than other alloys such as stainless steel or platinum, so it may require more maintenance to keep it looking its best. Overall, 14k gold is a popular choice for those who want the look and feel of gold, but at a more affordable price point.
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