The 1920s was a decade of transformation, marked by unprecedented societal shifts, cultural upheavals, and a thirst for indulgence that gave rise to the Prohibition era. Prohibition, the nationwide ban on the sale, production, and transportation of alcoholic beverages in the United States from 1920 to 1933, was a remarkable period in American history. What often gets overshadowed by the bootleggers and speakeasies is the glamorous world of fashion and accessories that emerged during this time, particularly the iconic cocktail rings.

The Roaring Twenties: A Backstory

Before we delve into the world of cocktail rings, let's take a brief look at the Prohibition era. Prohibition, a result of the 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution, aimed to curtail alcohol consumption. Instead, it gave rise to a thriving underground culture of secret bars known as speakeasies, where people would gather to enjoy illegal cocktails, jazz music, and daring fashion.

The 1920s became a symbol of rebellion, excess, and opulence. People defied the ban on alcohol with a newfound fervour, leading to the rise of bootleggers and a vibrant nightlife scene. This era, often dubbed the Roaring Twenties, was marked by flapper fashion, jazz music, and a fascination with all things extravagant.

Cocktail Rings: Jewels of the Jazz Age

One of the most enduring fashion trends of the 1920s was the cocktail ring. These rings embodied the spirit of the era with their bold, dazzling designs. Cocktail rings were typically larger than traditional rings, featuring eye-catching gemstones and intricate settings.

The cocktail ring was born out of the desire for self-expression and the need to flaunt individuality during Prohibition. Women, in particular, embraced these ornate accessories as a symbol of their newfound independence and defiance of societal norms. They adorned themselves with rings that featured vibrant, colourful gemstones such as emeralds, sapphires, and rubies, often surrounded by smaller diamonds. The settings were often inspired by Art Deco aesthetics, characterized by geometric shapes and intricate detailing.

Imagine yourself wearing an Art Deco pink sapphire & diamond ring or an Art Deco ruby & diamond target ring to one of these lively gatherings. These exquisite pieces would have been the talk of the town, drawing admiration from all who saw them.

These rings weren't just accessories; they were statements of rebellion and confidence. They were worn to speakeasies, jazz clubs, and all-night parties, catching the light as they clinked against glasses filled with contraband cocktails.

Introducing Prohibition: A Taste of the Jazz Age

Today, the allure of the 1920s and the Prohibition era lives on at the Chester speakeasy cocktail bar, Prohibition. The cocktail bar embodies the spirit of the Roaring Twenties, promising to deliver high-quality cocktails in a way which transport guests back to the blues and jazz-filled nights of that era. It's a warm and relaxed atmosphere that captures the essence of those bygone days.

As part of our collaboration with Prohibition, we invite you to experience the magic of the Jazz Age by trying their signature drink, "The Mother of Pearl." This limited-time concoction promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to a time of clandestine revelry and bold self-expression.

But that's not all. We have also curated a stunning jewellery collection that pays homage to the glamorous accessories of the 1920s. From exquisite cocktail rings like the Art Deco Pink Sapphire & Diamond Ring and the Art Deco Ruby & Diamond Target Ring to a modern take on dress rings such as the Columbian Emerald & Diamond Ring and the Sapphire & Diamond Dress Ring, their collection allows you to embrace the spirit of the era in style.

If you find yourself in Chester and want to step back in time to the enchanting world of the Roaring Twenties, make your way to Prohibition. Sip on "The Mother of Pearl," revel in the ambiance, and explore our exquisite jewellery collection. It's a journey into the past that promises an unforgettable experience—a taste of the glamour, glitz, and rebellion of the Prohibition era.