Wilke’s Estate Jewelry – Retro

RETRO JEWELRY PERIOD 1935 – 1950’s

The Retro period began during WWII. In opposition to the incredible turmoil in the world at the time, the styles became much more cheerful. The shapes became softer, and the colors brighter.

Because platinum was declared a strategic metal during the war, the primary metal used for jewelry was gold. It was alloyed into a rainbow of colors, including yellow, pink, and green.

Jewelry was larger and more bold. Bows, ribbons, and patriotic jewelry were the style. Jewelry represented a store of value more reliable than paper money at the time.