Jewelry Time Warp: The 1950s

Jan 25

The ‘burbs. The Civil Rights movement. Elvis. Marilyn…

The 1950s were a time of glamour in both fashion and jewelry due to post-war prosperity. That meant bigger, bolder bling: diamond and pearls decorating decolletage, chunky cocktail rings, and, of course, statement earrings in a variety of materials. Look to the 50s for jewelry inspiration— from fine jewelry to affordable costume jewelry—when you want classic sparkle.

**Princess Bride Necklace III**

Designer Emily P. Wheeler creates luxuriously unique adornments nonstop. At first glance, this might look like a basic pearl necklace, but it’s anything but basic with the addition of a Nigerian aquamarine center stage.
18k yellow gold, natural white pearls, Nigerian aquamarine, and diamonds “Princess Bride Necklace III,” $34,800 at Emily P. Wheeler

**Sydney Bracelet**

Devereux is an NYC bespoke, made-to-order brand that uses reclaimed gold and diamonds to create distinct pieces celebrating the past and present. Known for their perfect engagement rings, their vintage offerings are faboo, like this gate link power bracelet.
9k gold alloy “Sydney” bracelet, $960 at Devereux

**Colette Earrings**

Egyptian-born jewelry designer Isaac Manevitz founded Ben-Amun. His designs include a mix of modern and contemporary designs with broad appeal, which explains why they’re a favorite among editors and celebrities alike, including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.
24k gold electroplated metal and crystal stone “Colette” earrings, $190 at Ben-Amun
*This item is sold out.

**Aquamarine Fringe**

Martinis and multi-pearl cocktail rings were Friday night regulars in the 50s, but bold stones stood out at the monthly social. This Elizabeth Taylor-worthy 30ct aquamarine ring surely has a story or two of dancing into the wee hours of the night.
18k yellow gold, emerald cut aquamarine, diamonds and sapphires “Aquamarine Fringe” ring, $22,500 at Fred Leighton

**Knot Studs**

The Braunschweiger family started out clockmaking in late 1800s Germany, followed by watchmaking and repairs in New Jersey in the 1920s. Their past is an integral part of their present, including stores with vintage offerings. These pearl studs are an affordable staple, as much as they would have been back in the day.
14k yellow gold and freshwater pearl “Knot Stud” earrings, $80 at Braunschweiger
*This item is sold out.

**Multi-Layer Pearls**

Designer Lisa ‘Lele’ Sadoughi has a full resumé that includes launching J. Crew’s first jewelry collection and being Jewelry Design Director at Tory Burch. Then she started her namesake in 2012. Pearls have always reigned in her collections, and this multi-strand, multi-sized pearl necklace is a modern take on the classic.
“Ivory Multi-Layer Pearl” necklace, $195 at Lele Sadoughi

Editor: Samantha Durbin
Market Editor: Johannah Masters

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