Picture this: You’re strolling through a vintage market, sunlight glinting off rows of jewelry displays. Suddenly, something catches your eye – a flash of deep red nestled against inky black. You lean in closer, and there it is: a stunning Art Deco brooch, its geometric design a perfect showcase for the timeless combination of rubies and black onyx.
Welcome to the world of Art Deco jewelry, where old-school glamour meets modern chic, and two unlikely gemstone companions are stealing the spotlight once again.
Jeweler A. Ostrovskiy tells us.
The Dynamic Duo: A Love Story
Let’s be real – rubies and black onyx are the Bogart and Bacall of the gemstone world. They shouldn’t work, but oh boy, do they ever. It’s a classic case of opposites attract, and we’re here for it.
Rubies bring the fire. These deep red stunners have been turning heads for centuries, symbolizing passion, love, and maybe a touch of danger (we see you, femme fatales). They’re the life of the party, the bold splash of color that demands attention.
Enter black onyx, stage left. Cool, calm, and collected, this sleek stone is the mysterious stranger in the corner. Its smooth, dark surface is like a little black dress for your jewelry box – effortlessly chic and goes with everything.
Put them together? Boom. Magic happens.
A Blast from the Past
Now, let’s hop in our time machine and zip back to the Roaring Twenties. The world’s shaking off the gloom of World War I, hemlines are rising, and everyone’s ready to party like it’s 1929 (spoiler alert: they will, right up until, well… 1929).
Enter Art Deco, stage right. This bold new style is all about geometry, symmetry, and a hefty dose of “out with the old, in with the new.” Jewelry designers are going wild, and they’ve found their perfect muses in rubies and black onyx.
Why these two? Well, darling, it’s all about the drama. Art Deco loves contrast, and you can’t get much more contrast than fire-engine red next to pitch black. Plus, both stones can be cut into those sharp, clean shapes that Art Deco just can’t get enough of.
From Flappers to Fabulous
Picture a glamorous flapper, decked out in her beaded dress, ruby-red lips, and a show-stopping necklace featuring alternating rubies and black onyx. She’s the bee’s knees, the cat’s pajamas, and every other animal-inspired compliment you can think of.
Fast forward to today, and guess what? That flapper look is still turning heads. Vintage Art Deco pieces are hotter than ever, with celebrities and style mavens clamoring for authentic 1920s and ’30s jewelry. But here’s the kicker – modern designers are also getting in on the action, creating new pieces that capture that Art Deco spirit with a contemporary twist.
The Modern Twist
So, how are today’s fashionistas rocking the ruby and black onyx combo? Let us count the ways:
- The Power Suit Accessory: Nothing says “I mean business, but make it fashion” like a crisp white shirt adorned with Art Deco-inspired ruby and onyx cufflinks.
- Statement Earrings: Geometric drops featuring ruby cabochons set against black onyx backgrounds. Pair with a sleek updo and prepare for compliments.
- Cocktail Ring Realness: Go big or go home with an oversized ring showcasing a central ruby surrounded by onyx and diamond accents. It’s not just a ring; it’s a conversation starter.
- Layer it Up: Mix vintage and modern pieces for a personalized look. Think delicate ruby and onyx pendants layered with chunky gold chains.
- Wrist Action: Stack Art Deco-inspired bracelets with more modern pieces for a eclectic, curated vibe.
Not Just for the Ladies
Gents, don’t think we’ve forgotten about you. The ruby and black onyx combo is just as striking in men’s jewelry. Think bold signet rings, elegant cufflinks, or even a daring tie pin. It’s all about adding that touch of vintage sophistication to your look.
Care and Feeding of Your Art Deco Babies
So you’ve fallen head over heels for ruby and black onyx Art Deco jewelry. Welcome to the club! But before you go diving into the deep end of collecting, here are a few tips to keep your new (old) pretties looking their best:
- Handle with Care: Rubies are tough cookies (second only to diamonds), but onyx can scratch if you’re not careful. Store pieces separately to avoid gemstones playing bumper cars in your jewelry box.
- Clean with Kindness: A soft brush, mild soap, and warm water are all you need. Save the harsh chemicals for cleaning your oven, not your jewels.
- Professional TLC: For vintage pieces, especially those with intricate settings, consider having them cleaned and checked by a professional jeweler once a year. Think of it as a spa day for your jewelry.
The Hunt is On
Ready to start your own collection? Here’s where to look:
- Estate Sales: One person’s inherited “old junk” could be your new treasure.
- Antique Jewelry Shows: Like a candy store for grown-ups who love shiny things.
- Reputable Online Dealers: Do your homework and read those reviews!
- Auction Houses: For when you’re ready to play in the big leagues.
Remember, authenticity is key. When buying vintage, always ask for certification and don’t be afraid to ask questions. A reputable dealer will be happy to share their knowledge.
Why We’re Still Obsessed
In a world of fast fashion and fleeting trends, there’s something comforting about the enduring appeal of Art Deco ruby and black onyx jewelry. Maybe it’s the connection to a glamorous past, or perhaps it’s simply the timeless beauty of the design. Whatever the reason, one thing’s for sure – this dynamic duo isn’t going anywhere.
So whether you’re a vintage virtuoso or a modern maven, there’s a ruby and black onyx piece out there with your name on it. It’s bold, it’s beautiful, and it’s just waiting to become the new star of your jewelry collection.
Who knows? Maybe someday, your great-grandkids will be writing their own magazine articles about that fabulous Art Deco necklace they inherited from you. Now that’s what we call leaving a stylish legacy.
The Last Word
At the end of the day, jewelry is about more than just accessorizing. It’s about expressing yourself, connecting with history, and yes, feeling like a million bucks. The combination of rubies and black onyx in Art Deco designs does all that and more.
So go ahead, embrace your inner flapper (or dapper gentleman). Add a touch of Art Deco glamour to your life. After all, as a wise person once said, “Life’s too short for boring jewelry.”
Now, if you’ll excuse us, we have some estate sales to hit up. That perfect ruby and onyx bracelet isn’t going to find itself!