The architectural and decorative style known as Art Deco derived its name from L'Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes (Exposition of Decorative Arts and Modern Manufactures) held in Paris in 1925.

Art Deco influenced "the look" of the years between World War I and World War II. It represented sophistication and elegance in an era that encompassed the Roaring Twenties as well as the Great Depression.

The Art Deco period is characterized by its highly stylized geometric shapes and the strong use of symmetry. Bold color is also evident in Art Deco jewelry, particularly the use of black and white. The stark contrast of platinum combined with diamonds or crystals was widely seen during this period, although rubies, sapphires, emeralds, turquoise and coral were also used extensively.

Art Deco jewelers borrowed from the flowing curves and graceful lines of earlier Art Nouveau and Edwardian periods and created dramatic geometric shapes, which heralded the introduction of new diamond shapes, including emerald cut and marquise. Classic motifs from the earlier periods were reduced to stark, geometric stylizations.

Art Deco engagement rings often included a "stepped" structure of stones leading up to the central stone, much like the tower on the Chrysler Building in New York. Early Art Deco engagement rings were often characterized by the use of bold, contrasting colors, but later examples moved towards the use of platinum and diamonds - white on white. Striking geometric shapes were achieved by setting square cut diamonds in round settings.

The Art Deco movement lasted from the 1920s to the 1940s and faded out with the onset of World War II. It permeated almost every facet of everyday life, from clothing and jewelry to interior design, furnishings and household appliances. Art Deco themes can be seen today in the Chrysler Building and Radio City Music Hall in New York, in the graceful precision of René Lalique's etched glass and crystal, and the artwork of Jean Puiforcat.

Choosing an Art Deco engagement ring is to step away from the ordinary and indulge in something that not only has historical significance but also style and elegant sophistication.