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The Evolution of Jewelry

Various jewelry peices on top of yellow background

Ever wondered how different life would’ve been if you were born in another decade? What shoes you would wear or jewelry you’d accessorize with? Over the last century, trends in fashion and culture have changed drastically in an effort to keep up with fast-paced evolution of society. In this blog, we’ll take a blast into the past to see how jewelry trends have shifted with the turn of each decade.

1950’s: Diamonds Are Forever

Throughout the 1950’s, trends were heavily influenced by celebrity lifestyles, often garnering inspiration from the biggest stars. Women during this time were drawn to glamorous style icons like Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe. When these luxurious ladies stepped on-screen donning glimmering diamond jewelry sets, every woman wanted some for themselves. Women during this time would’ve drooled over this luxurious Roberto Coin Wide Link Diamond Collar.

In addition to this, a platinum shortage following WWII and the clever marketing slogan “diamonds are forever,” jewelers saw a boom in sales for gold and silver diamond jewelry. It was around this time that diamond engagement rings were cemented as a tradition to give your betrothed.

1960’s: One Giant Leap for Jewelry

The sixties are remembered for the vast amount of change seen throughout many industries. Fashion, music, and technology all transformed to reflect a more modern society. In the same decade men went to the moon, we innovated jewelry-making styles and techniques. Big, bright plastic and enamel jewelry soared in popularity. Other trendy looks around this time included pearl necklaces, layered necklaces, bangles and cocktail rings. Reminiscent of a warm harvest moon, this Michael M 18-Karat White Gold Citrine Cocktail Ring would’ve won over any lady in the 60’s.

1970’s: Groovy is Gold

The 70’s were all about embracing counterculture. Disco and bohemian lifestyles danced their way into the spotlight, as did the fashion trends associated with these movements. On the dance floor disco goers wore loud, bright prints and large gold hoop earrings, similar to these LAGOS Hoop Earrings. Conversely, bohemian style was more understated with flowy outfits and natural beaded or leather jewelry. The impact of these two timeless styles is still seen in fashion today.

1980’s: The Material Pearl

When you think of the eighties, what comes to mind first? I bet you think of celebrities like Madonna, Jane Fonda and Whitney Houston. These celebs defined this decade because they refused to be anywhere other than in the spotlight. The 1980’s were unapologetic and bold, and the jewelry was no different. Popular jewelry trends during this time included oversized necklaces and earrings, faux pearl or glass beads and costume jewelry. It was trendy to mix and match styles, layering items you’ve collected over the years to create a cohesive look.

The 1980’s also brought the princess cut diamond into the spotlight, which quickly became the favorite among American women. Glamorous rings like this Michael M Princess Engagement Ring were desired by almost every woman around this time. To this day, the princess cut is still one of the most popular diamond shapes for engagement rings.

1990’s: JNCO Jeans and Men's Earrings

From preppy to punk, fashion during the 1990’s was all over the place. Each style that came out of the nineties was a bit toned down, especially when compared to the decade before it. The one thing that didn’t get dialed in was the accessories. Jewelry styles such as chokers, mood rings and hoop earrings became all the rage. Many of the looks established in the nineties are still popular, like this understated but glimmering Penny Preville Lotus Pendant.

It’s important to note that many of these styles were considered fashionable when worn by women. In fact, men didn’t start wearing pairs of earrings until this decade, and rarely ever wore necklaces until soccer star David Beckham broke the norms. Beckham taught men that you could still be masculine while being blinged out.

2000’s: G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S

Following the turn of the 21st century, big bling made its way from the red carpet to the jewelry boxes of every household. Stars like Rihanna and Beyonce studded themselves with millions of dollars worth of diamonds for award shows, inspiring other women around the world to believe that more is more. Oversized necklaces and earrings, rhinestones head-to-toe and costume jewelry were popular trends during this time. Something like these Hearts On Fire Fringe Diamond Ear Cuffs would’ve been very popular on the red carpet.

2010’s: Fly Like a G6

Following the beautiful bejeweled looks to come out of the 2000’s, the 2010’s were about having fun when accessorizing. Layered, experimental and gemstone jewelry made their way onto the fashion frontlines. Bright stones like sapphire, topaz and amethysts were adorned often and paired with bold embellishments. This Roberto Coin Amethyst Sunburst Pendant is sure to have stopped traffic in this decade.

2020’s: The Future of Jewelry Fashion

So far in the 2020’s we’ve seen everything from miniature sculpture earrings to beaded friendship bracelets becoming highly-favored. The 2020’s could host any number of trends for jewelry brands. Trend experts believe pearls to be the next big gemstone of the new decade. What do you think will take the jewelry world by storm in the 2020’s?

Make your Mark with Thomas Markle

Traveling back in time reminds us of how jewelry throughout the decades has been influenced by popular culture, historical events and change. Since 1973, our team at Thomas Markle has had the passion to help jewelry wearers discover their individual style. We hope this blog has inspired you to look back on how fashion trends have evolved over time. With decades of experience in the jewelry industry, our team is always here to help you find your fit. Visit us in stores at one of our locations in The Woodlands or Memorial.

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Established in 1983, Thomas Markle Jewelers has become Houston's most trusted family jeweler. Houston residents and area visitors are provided with a friendly, first-name basis atmosphere and a highly experienced staff of jewelry professionals.

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