Gifts of Grandeur: The American Ribbon Brooch, 1930-1940

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Bow Brooch
American, 1930-1940
The Victoria & Albert Museum

This bow brooch of platinum is set with brilliant-cut and baguette-cut diamonds and onyx. Made in the United States between 1930 and 1940, this shimmering bow represents the artistic sensibilities of American Art Deco jewelry design.

Pavé-set brilliant-cut diamonds create an interesting texture and refraction as they replicate the soft loops and folds of a bow. The bow’s knot and “tails” are comprised of linearly-set baguettes. The onyx—an Art Deco mainstay—was added to add cool contrast to the fire of the white diamonds. The sheen of the black stone gives weight to the ends of the ribbon.