From bell-bottom jeans and mohair suits to platform shoes and sequined disco wear, the 1970s were all about bold, groovy fashion. But one thing that really made fashion "pop” throughout this decade was the jewelry. Equally bold and fun, the retro jewelry of the 1970s was never short on colors, patterns, chunkiness and personal expression. As 1970s fashion creeps back into today's trends, it’s the perfect time to dust off those bold bangles and get your 70s jewelry groove on. Read on for a guide to all things 70s jewelry.
Types of 1970s jewelry
While it would be impossible to discuss every trend that graced the 1970s jewelry scene, here are some of the most popular categories you should consider when creating a collection of your own.
1. Statement pieces
Statement jewelry is any bright, large, flashy piece that allows its wearer to express their individuality, displaying what’s on the inside, outside. In the 1970s, statement pieces were common accessories, with popular pieces including oversized sunglasses or large necklaces, often adorned with patterns or gems.
2. Gold hoops
Gold hoops were a versatile and iconic accessory in the 1970s, often worn in various sizes and different colors of gold, with yellow gold being the most popular. Hoop earrings were worn with both casual and formal outfits and drew on the bohemian and disco-inspired trends of the era.
3. Gold chains
Keeping with the gold trend, gold chains were another popular jewelry piece in the 1970s, worn alone or layered with other necklaces. These chains were often chunky and bold, reflecting the decade's love for flashy, in-your-face fashion.
4. Thick bangles
Thick bangles (rigid, circular bracelets that fit snugly around the wrist) were a staple accessory for many women in the 1970s. Made from gold, silver or other metals, bangles were often stacked and layered, bringing glamor and bohemian style to a look.
5. Chunky necklaces
Chunky necklaces with bold designs and intricate details were a defining feature of 1970s jewelry. Featuring natural materials like wood, beads or shells, or adorned with colorful gemstones, these chunky necklaces added complexity and interest when paired with the era’s flowing clothing, creating a striking contrast between delicate fabrics and powerful jewelry.
6. The cocktail ring
The cocktail ring—a large, eye-catching ring typically worn on the right hand —was a popular accessory for special occasions in the 1970s. Such rings were often adorned with gemstones or intricate designs, symbolizing luxury and sophistication.
7. Natural materials
Jewelry made from wood, stones, coral or bone was a popular trend in the 1970s, reflecting the decade's hippie fashion. These pieces often featured earthy tones and organic shapes, creating a relaxed and natural look. Other earthy elements like leather and feathers were also included in this trend.
How to style 70s jewelry trends with pieces you already own
Even if you don’t own authentic, vintage 1970s jewelry, there’s a chance you can use the pieces of jewelry you currently own to execute a 70s-themed jewelry makeover. And luckily, it’s easier than you might think. By incorporating basic style tips from the 70s and implementing a bit of creativity, you can transform your existing jewelry into a rad ensemble.
- Layered necklaces: Start by layering your necklaces. A delicate chain paired with a chunky pendant is a classic 70s combo. Want to go even bolder? Stack bangles from your wrist up your forearm for an even more interesting 70s look!
- Bigger might just be better: Big and bold jewelry is so 70s!! From large, colorful rings to oversized, flashy earrings, incorporating a few of these pieces is sure to dial up the drama on your 70s look. However, it’s best to only wear one or two antique pieces together at a time and only one statement piece per outfit (to let it shine!). Otherwise, you risk having your ensemble appear more like a costume than a sophisticated, fashion-forward look.
- Go bold with gold: One must-have for any 70s-inspired outfit is gold. Mixing and matching different shades of gold can create a dimensional, unique look.
- Consider the occasion: As with any jewelry or accessories, it's important to consider the occasion. While 70s fashion was often casual, there were also plenty of opportunities to dress it up. Opt for more formal jewelry pieces for special occasions, like a cocktail ring or a delicate (but still bold!) chandelier earring.
- Retro color and pattern combinations: Experiment with unexpected color pairings, such as brown and orange or pink and green or pull in some 70s-esque patterns, such as chevron patterned earrings or herringbone chunky bracelets.
Tips for shopping for jewelry from the 1970s
If you're readying yourself for a 1970s-inspired jewelry shopping adventure, you'll need this "lowdown" to acquire pieces that are really "out of sight" (aka, pretty cool in '70s slang!).
- Seek authenticity. First and foremost, authenticity is key. Look for hallmarks or markings that indicate the piece's age and material. While modern 70s-inspired jewelry can come close to imitating the real deal, you’ll want to make sure the vintage jewelry you’re buying is legit, especially if you’re paying a pretty penny for it. NOTE: authentic 70s jewelry means it’s been around a while. Examine the jewelry for signs of wear and tear carefully.
- Don’t forget your personal style. It's important not to purchase pieces solely because they are from the 1970s - you should consider your personal style when selecting pieces. The 70s saw an increase in ethnic-inspired jewelry, which reflected the wearer's cultural identity by incorporating traditional elements, bringing a global aesthetic to the jewelry world. Follow your style and find pieces that make you feel like you.
- Set spending guardrails. This is a good rule of thumb for any shopping adventure: set a budget before you start shopping, as vintage jewelry can range in price from affordable to very expensive.
- Where to buy 1970s jewelry. When searching for authentic disco-era jewelry, vintage stores and flea markets are excellent starting points. If you're looking to take your search a step further, consider attending special events such as antique shows or swap meets, which can be great places to discover one-of-a-kind, out-of-the-box pieces. If your shopping style involves staying at home, online marketplaces often have extensive selections of vintage jewelry.
- Avoid buying fake vintage jewelry. To ensure your 70s jewelry is absolutely "radical” (that’s slang for “cool!"), check for hallmarks or markings indicating the metal used to make the piece. Examine the craftsmanship and quality of the jewelry and be wary of extremely low prices, especially for high-quality "vintage jewelry.” Additionally, research the seller's reputation and feedback before making a purchase. As with any jewelry, if you’re unsure about a piece’s authenticity, consider consulting with a jewelry specialist or appraiser before purchasing.
- Ask all the questions. Striking up a conversation about specific pieces can teach you even more about the jewelry and the 70s fashion era. Ask the seller about the jewelry's history, composition and condition. Lastly, if you're buying from a vintage store or flea market, some may be open to negotiating on the price. It doesn’t hurt to ask!
Insure your 1970s jewelry
Whether your jewelry was made 50 years ago or you purchased it new this year, consider protecting your cherished and valuable pieces with a personal jewelry insurance policy from Jewelers Mutual. While many people use homeowners insurance to insure their jewelry, there are potential drawbacks to that option compared to personal jewelry insurance. Check your jewelry insurance rate from Jewelers Mutual by clicking the button below.
