Vintage 1960s
Instead of the extravagant opulence of the 1950s, the Swinging Sixties were characterised by general rebellion. The restlessness of the youth was expressed in protests and a clear rejection of the establishment, which was also reflected in art and handicrafts. People strived for innovation, provocation and a break with the traditional! Find out more
Characteristics of 1960s jewellery
Sixties jewellery often used motifs from contemporary art and relied on contrasts between reflective and matt surfaces as well as the interplay of light and shadow. Pop Art and Op Art inspired jewellery manufacturers to create interesting and unusual textures that went hand in hand with a geometrically fragmented design language.
Coloured stones were often used lavishly and their placement often appeared asymmetrical and random. Large rough stones were found alongside unusual gemstones, which were no longer chosen for their monetary value but for their unusual properties and colours.
Nature and technology as role models
Just as in fashion, daring, abstract forms were also prevalent in the jewellery of the 60's, sometimes expressed in unconventional, entertaining designs. There was also an increasing move away from the rigid concept of day and evening jewellery in favour of a distinction between more expensive individual pieces worn on special occasions and more affordable pieces that were more informal but always fashionable.
Animal motifs, insects and plants enjoyed great popularity in brooches and pendants, while natural forms such as birds' nests, roots, shells or coral branches were used in abstract form in numerous pieces of jewellery from the Sixties.
Another major theme of the decade was the emergence of space travel and with it the moon landing in 1969, which continued the so-called Spage Age. Space exploration fired the public's imagination and also had an impact on contemporary jewellery design. Pieces in the shape of rockets, stars and satellites went hand in hand with surfaces reminiscent of lunar craters and other planetary structures.
Earrings and rings of the Sixties
In the 60s, gold clip earrings were particularly popular. Wearing expressive earrings was thereby possible even without pierced ears. The preference for unusual textures and bold colours was also reflected here.
Large rings with lavishly set stones established themselves as early as the 1950s and were also popular in the following decade. They were often generously set with brightly coloured stones and pearls. Innovative effects were created by combining faceted and uncut gemstones, which were contrasted by shiny diamonds.
Gentlemen of the 1960s wore signet rings, which completed the look of the classic gentleman.
Mid-century bracelets
If you think back to the Sixties, ornate bracelets or large bangles set with stones are omnipresent. Angular, braided, hammered and twisted surfaces are what make these pieces so appealing. Narrower bracelets set with diamonds were favoured for elegant evening occasions.
As several bracelets were often worn at the same time, beautiful ensembles made up of different but perfectly coordinated models date from this period and could be used to set the scene for any outfit.
Vintage mid-century jewellery in Munich
If you are looking for vintage jewellery, Halsbandaffaire is the right contact for you. We will be happy to advise you on the right pieces of jewellery for you and your loved ones.
Be inspired by different eras and try on our pieces of jewellery on site in Munich-Schwabing.
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