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Order of Jewelry Articles
Jewelry Style Periods (newest entry)
Jewelry Style Periods
(Reprinted from Warman’s “Antiques & Collectibles Price Guide”)
Jewelry has been a part of every culture throughout time. It is often reflective of the times, as well as social and aesthetic movements, with each piece telling its own story through hidden clues, that, when interpreted, will help solve the mysteries surrounding them.
Jewelry is generally divided into periods and styles. Each period may have several styles, with some of the same jewelry being made in both precious and non-precious materials. Additionally, there are recurring style revivals, which are interpretations of an earlier period. For example, the Egyptian Revival that took place in the early and late 1800s and then again in the 1920s.
Georgian, 1760-1837
Fine jewelry from this period is quite desirable, but few good-quality pieces have found their way to auction in recent years. Sadly, much jewelry from this period has been lost.
Victorian, 1837-1901
Queen Victoria of England ascended the throne in 1837 and remained queen until her death in 1901. The Victorian period is a long and prolific one; abundant with many styles of jewelry. It warrants being divided into three sub-periods: Early or Romantic period dating from 1837-1860; Mid or Grand period dating from 1860-1880; and Late or Aesthetic period dating from 1880-1901.
Sentiment and romance were significant factors in Victorian jewelry Often, jewelry and clothing represented love and affection, with symbolic motifs such as hearts, crosses, hands, flowers, anchors, doves, crowns, knots, stars, thistles, wheat, garlands, horseshoes and moons. The materials of the time were also abundant and varied. They included silver, gold, diamonds, onyx, glass, cameo, paste, carnelian, agate, coral, amber, garnet, emeralds, opals, pearls, peridot, rubies, sapphires, marcasites, cut steel, enameling, tortoise shell, topaz, turquoise, bog oak, ivory, jet, hair, gutta percha and vulcanite.
Sentiments of love were often expressed in miniatures. Sometimes they were representative of deceased loved ones, but often the miniatures were of the living. Occasionally, the miniatures depicted landscapes, cherubs or religious themes.
Hair jewelry was a popular expression of love and sentiments. The hair of a loved one was placed in a special compartment in a brooch or a locket, or used to form a picture under a glass compartment. Later in the mid-19th century, pieces of jewelry were made completely of woven hair. Individual strands of hair would be woven together to create necklaces, watch chains, brooches, earrings and rings.
In 1861, Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert, died. The queen went into mourning for the rest of her life, and Victoria required that the royal court wear black. This atmosphere spread to the populace and created a demand for mourning jewelry.
Mourning jewelry is typically black. When it first came into fashion, it was made from jet, or fossilized wood. By 1850, there were dozens of English workshops making jet brooches, lockets, bracelets and necklaces. As the supply of jet dwindled, other materials were used such as vulcanite, gutta percha, bog oak and French jet.
By the 1880s, the somber mourning jewelry was losing popularity. Fashions had changed and the clothing was simpler and had an air of delicacy. The Industrial Revolution, which had begun in the early part of the century, was now in full swing and machine-manufactured jewelry was affordable to the working class.
Edwardian, 1890-1920
The Edwardian period takes its name from England’s King Edward VII. Though he ascended the throne in 1901, he and his wife, Alexandria of Denmark, exerted influence over the period before and after his ascension. The 1890s were known for ostentation and extravagance. The 1890s was known as La Belle Epoque. This was a time known for ostentation and extravagance. As the years passed, jewelry became simpler and smaller. Instead of wearing one large brooch, women often wore several small lapel pins.
In the early 1900s, platinum, diamonds and pearls were prevalent in the jewelry of the wealthy, while paste was being used by the masses to imitate the real thing. The styles were reminiscent of the neo-classical and rococo motifs. The jewelry was lacy and ornate, feminine and delicate.
Art & Crafts, 1890-1920
The Arts & Crafts movement was focused on artisans and craftsmanship. There was a simplification of form where the material was secondary to the design. Guilds of artisans banded together. Some jewelry was mass-produced, but the most highly prized examples of this period are handmade and signed by their makers. The pieces were simple, and at times abstract. They could be hammered, patinated, and acid etched. Common materials were brass, bronze, copper, silver, blister pearls, freshwater pearls, turquoise, agate, opals, moonstones, coral, horn, ivory, base metals, amber, cabochon-cut garnets and amethysts.
Art Nouveau, 1895-1910
In 1895, Samuel Bing opened a shop called “Maison de lArt Nouveau” at 22 Rue de Provence in Paris. Art Nouveau designs in the jewelry were characterized by a sensuality that took on the forms of the female figure, butterflies, dragonflies, peacocks, snakes, wasps, swans, bats, orchids, irises and other exotic flowers. The lines used whiplash curves to create a feeling of lushness and opulence.
1920s-1930s
Costume jewelry began its steady ascent to popularity in the 1920s. Since it was relatively inexpensive to produce, there was mass production. The sizes and designs of the jewelry varied. Often, it was worn a few times, disposed of and then replaced, a cheap throwaway to dress up an outfit. Costume jewelry became so popular that it was sold in both the upscale stores and the “five and dime.”
During the 1920s, fashions were often accompanied by jewelry that drew on the Art Deco movement. The idea behind this movement was that form follows function. The style was characterized by simple, straight, clean lines, stylized motifs and geometric shapes. Favored materials included chrome, rhodium, pot metal, glass, rhinestones, Bakelite and celluloid.
One designer who played an important role was Coco Chanel. Though previously reserved for evening wear, Chanel wore elaborate jewelry during the day, making it fashionable for millions of other women to do so, too.
With the 1930s came the Depression and the advent of World War II. Perhaps in response to the gloom, designers began using enameling and brightly colored rhinestones to create whimsical birds, flowers, circus animals, bows, dogs and just about every other figural form imaginable.
Retro Modern, 1939-1950
Other jewelry designs of the 1940s were big and bold. Retro Modern had a more substantial feel to it and designers began using larger stones to enhance the dramatic pieces. The jewelry was stylized and exaggerated. Common motifs included flowing scrolls, bows, ribbons, birds, animals, snakes, flowers and knots.
Sterling silver now became the metal of choice, often dipped in a gold wash known as vermeil. Designers often incorporated patriotic themes of American flags, the V-sign, Uncle Sam’s hat, airplanes, anchors and eagles.
Post-War Modern, 1945-1965
This was a movement that emphasized the artistic approach to jewelry making. It is also referred to as Mid-Century Modern. This approach was occurring at a time when the Beat Generation was prevalent. These avant-garde designers created jewelry that was handcrafted to illustrate the artist’s own concepts and ideas. The materials often used were sterling, gold, copper, brass, enamel, cabochons, wood quartz and amber.
1950s-1960s
The 1950s saw the rise of jewelry that was made purely of rhinestones; necklaces, bracelets, earrings and pins. The focus of the early 1960s was on clean lines; pillbox hats and A-line dresses with short jackets were a mainstay for the conservative woman. The large, bold rhinestone pieces were no longer the must-have accessory. They were now replaced with smaller, more delicate gold-tone metal and faux pearls with only a hint of rhinestones.
At the other end of the spectrum was psychedelic-colored clothing. Nehru jackets, thigh-high miniskirts and go-go boots. These clothes were accessorized with beads, large metal pendants and occasionally big, bold rhinestones. By the late 1960s, there was a movement back to mother nature and the “hippie” look was born. Ethnic clothing, tie dye, long skirts, fringe and jeans were the prevalent style and the rhinestone had, for the most part, been left behind.
Mexican Silver, 1930-1970
Mexican silversmiths first made jewelry for tourists. The jewelry had pre-Hispanic and traditional Mexican motifs as well as some abstract modern designs. Artisans used silver, a combination of silver with brass or copper, alpaca, amethysts, malachite, obsidian, tiger eye, turquoise, abalone, ebony, rosewood and enameling to create their original designs. While hundreds of artists set up their shops in the town of Taxco, Mexico, in the 30s and 40s creating a silversmith guild, there are only a relatively small number of well-known artisans who gained their reputation for their designs and craftsmanship.
Cleaning Jewelry
(Reprinted from "Care and Repair of Everyday Treasures")
Antique jewelry is made from a wide variety of materials, two or more often being combined in the same piece. It is important when cleaning pieces to prevent certain cleaning agents that are suitable for one material from coming into contact with another material that could be damaged by them. In some cases, this risk makes it necessary to mask an area with tape, while in others it demands careful application of the cleaning agent with a small brush or tiny pieces of rag, chamois leather, or cotton swabs.
You should always examine the settings of the stones in a piece of jewelry before you begin to clean it; this is best done by using either a magnifying glass or a jeweler’s eyeglass. A piece which has an open setting can usually be cleaned with the specified cleaning agency without loosening a stone. But if the piece has a closed setting, make sure that no liquid creeps behind the stone, as this can loosen the glue or cement that holds it in place. With a closed setting, carry out only a very careful surface cleaning with a cotton swab moistened with the specified cleaning agent. Alternatively, use a specified dry-cleaning agent. You should also dry-clean strung necklaces, because silk or cotton thread should be not dampened.
If you are in any doubt about either the setting or the material you wish to clean or repair, eliminate the risk of damage and devaluation by consulting a jewelry expert before proceeding.
AGATE
Remove dirt and grease by dabbing with a cotton swab dampened with warm, soapy water. If the dirt proves stubborn, gently rub in the soapy water with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Then dab off with clean cold water before drying with a soft towel. Clean agate has a slightly waxy luster, so don’t try to achieve a shine by vigorous buffing with a soft cloth.
AMBER
Remove accumulated dirt by gently rubbing with a cotton swab dipped in warm, soapy water. Dry at once with a soft cloth. To revive the sheen, apply almond or olive oil with a cotton swab, wipe off the excess, and buff with a chamois leather. NOTE: Never allow amber to come into contact with denatured alcohol, mineral spirits, toilet water, hair spray, or perfume, as these will permanently dull it. Never soak amber in water, because this gives it a cloudy look that is almost impossible to remove. You should entrust repair of valuable pieces to an expert restorer.
AQUAMARINE
Clean with lukewarm, soapy water and a piece of clean cotton rag. Rinse with clean water. Dry and buff with a soft cloth. Never use hot water, which may crack the stone.
BRASS
Various cleaning methods will revive tarnished brass, and the remedy you choose will depend on how unsightly the tarnishing is. In every case, wear plastic goggles and rubber gloves. If the piece is minimally tarnished, clean and polish it with a commercial brass polish and a soft, lint-free rag. If the problem is a few obstinate marks, mix a little kerosene with jeweler’s rouge to form a thick, cream-like paste. Gently apply the paste with a rag until the marks have gone. Adding two drops of ammonia to the mix often helps. To remove heavier tarnish, mix a tablespoon each of salt and vinegar with one cup of hot water. Gently apply this with fine steel wool. When the tarnish has been removed, wash the piece with warm, soapy water; rinse thoroughly with clean, cold water, and dry immediately with a piece of towel. Protect and polish brass by applying very sparingly, on a soft, lint-free rag, a commercial brass polish or a little microcrystalline wax. Alternatively, for outside brass door knockers,, knobs, and handles, brush on a coat of clean lacquer.
BRONZE
Treat all bronze pieces with great caution, and never use abrasive powders to clean them. A considerable part of their value lies in the subtle patination that gradually accumulates over the years. You can safely dust them with a soft-bristled brush, and tease out any dirt or grease from recessed areas with a soft-bristled toothbrush moistened with mineral spirits. If the bronze was originally polished, it will respond well to treatment with a fine white wax polish, such as the microcrystalline wax that is used to finish leather ware.
CAMEOS
Clean dirty cameos and intaglios with warm, soapy water, cotton swabs and a make-up brush. Rinse with a cotton swab dipped in clean water, and dab dry with terrycloth. To remove heavier dirt, use a small artist’s brush moistened with mineral spirits. Next, add a couple of drops of ammonia to warm, soapy water, and brush this onto the piece. Rinse with the same brush dipped in clean warm water, then dry with a small piece of chamois leather.
CORAL
Remove dirt with cotton swabs, or a small artist’s brush dipped in warm, soapy water. Rinse with the swabs or brush and clean water. Dry with a cotton rag. Remove stubborn marks by making a thin, cream-like paste of crocus powder and water, and brushing it on with a cotton swab. Rinse and dry as before. Never soak coral in water.
CARNELIAN
(Use the method for cleaning Agate.)
DIAMOND and ARTIFICIAL DIAMOND
To remove light accretions of dirt from diamonds, wash in warm soapy water, rinse with clean cold water, and dry thoroughly. Remove grease and heavier deposits of dirt by brushing with a small artist’s brush dipped alternately into denatured alcohol and ammonia. Dab dry with a soft cloth or towel. Clean an artificial diamond with a small artist’s brush dipped in alcohol. Blow on the piece to evaporate the excess alcohol as quickly as possible. Never wash an artificial diamond as these are usually glued into their setting and easily dislodged when wet.
EMERALD
Remove grease and dirt by brushing on with a small artist’s brush a solution of warm, soapy water and two drops of ammonia. Remove stubborn dirt with the same brush dipped in denatured alcohol. Gently buff with a piece of chamois.
GOLD
Unlike many metals, gold does not tarnish. However, dirt accumulates in flat, curved, or raised areas and should be removed by buffing with a dry chamois leather. Clean recessed areas and chain links with a stiff-bristled artist’s brush. Wash gold that is very dirty or greasy with warm, soapy water and then rub it with a cloth or brush. Rinse with clean, cold water and dry immediately with a piece of terrycloth.
HORN and IVORY
To clean both horn and ivory, wipe with absorbent cotton dipped in warm, soapy water. Then rinse with cotton and clean water and dry with a soft towel. Revive and polish by gently rubbing almond oil into the surface with a soft cloth. NOTE: Both horn and ivory tend to become brittle with age, and exposure to excessive temperatures and immersion in water can split or warp them. After cleaning and drying them, rub a little almond oil over the surface with a cotton swab, leave for two minutes, then wipe off.
JADE
Wipe with absorbent cotton dipped in warm, soapy water containing two drops of ammonia. Rinse with a cloth moistened with clean water, dry with a soft cloth, and buff with a chamois. Use a stiff-bristled artist’s brush to remove dirt from crevices. For stubborn dirt, put denatured alcohol or mineral spirits on the brush.
JET
To clean, gently rub with soft fresh bread.
MOTHER-OF-PEARL
Wipe with a soft cloth moistened with milk. Dry and buff with a clean, soft cloth.
ONYZ
(Use the method for cleaning Agate.)
OPAL
(Use the method for cleaning Pearls.)
PEARL
Clean real pearls in a glass jar with a handful of powdered magnesia or potato flour. Shake the jar for three minutes, and then leave for 24 hours. Repeat this. Shake again, remove the pearls, and dust off excess powder with a dusting brush. Clean artificial (glass or plastic) pearls by wiping with a chamois leather moistened with water.
PLATINUM
To remove discoloration, first add a little olive oil or denatured alcohol to jeweler’s rouge to make a paste with the consistency of heavy cream. Rub it on with a clean soft rag, wipe off, and buff with a second rag.
RUBY
Wipe with cotton swabs dipped in warm, soapy water, rinse with clean water, and dry with a soft cloth. Rub with chamois leather moistened with alcohol.
SAPPHIRE
(Use the method for cleaning Rubies.)
SILVER
In the majority of cases tarnished items of silver and silver plate can be successfully cleaned and polished by hand, using a soft cloth and a commercial silver cleaner. However, you should note that all such cleaners have a mild abrasive action which removes a minute layer of silver from the surface of a piece each time they are used. The long term effects of this are most noticeable on pieces made of silver plate. Eventually, enough silver is worn away to expose the base metal underneath the plate.
It is for this reason that you should use the gentlest possible buffing and polishing action when treating silver with a cleaning agent. To clean and polish silver, put on white cotton gloves. If you use an impregnated silver cloth, rub it over the piece, pressing slightly harder where the tarnishing is most marked. Turn the cloth as it becomes dirty.
If you use a commercial liquid or paste, apply it sparingly with a soft cloth. For recessed or engraved areas, you may need to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Once the tarnishing has been removed, wash, rinse, and dry. Buff the surface to a deep shine with another clean, soft cloth or chamois leather. Buff recessed areas with a fine-bristled artist’s brush.
To remove severe tarnishing (less abrasive than manual cleaning without removing a thin layer of silver), clean your silver or silver plate in an electrochemical dip.
TORTOISESHELL
Wash with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. Moisten a soft cloth with almond oil, add a little microcrystalline wax, and rub in. Buff with another cloth. To remove scratches, mix denatured alcohol and crocus powder to form a creamy paste. Rub on with a chamois. Wipe with a cloth and buff with a dry chamois.
TURQUOISE
(Use the method for cleaning Agate.)
Prominent Costume Jewelry Makers
Is your piece of vintage jewelry signed? Check the backside of your jewelry for the stamp of one of these prominent jewelry makers. (please note this list is not all-inclusive).
ALICE CAVINESS
Alice Caviness was a prominent costume jewelry designer who produced high-quality jewelry in the late 1940's. Even though she passed away in 1983, her company in New York is still run by Lois Stein, her business associate.
ART
ART trademark was used in business from the late 1940's to the late 1960's. They offered a broad range of designs that can be likened to Florenza and Hollycraft. They often resemble the Victorian and Renaissance Revival jewelry. Their pieces are of quality and combine fine filigree or stamped metal work with colored rhinestones.
AVON
The company started out as California Perfume Company, CPC was their trade mark and they became incorporated in 1886. In January of 1929 the Avon line was introduced and The Avon Company was born. Avon calling became the firms slogan and their products were sold on a direct home shopping with Avon representatives. The Avon jewelry was made for the "Avon Company" by such names as "Krementz", and other manufactures, and the jewelry line became a great asset to the company.
B. DAVID
B. David jewelry company began producing costume jewelry in 1945 in Cincinnati, Ohio. They also made gold and silver jewelry.
BOGOFF
Spear Novelty Company in Chicago produced high-quality costume jewelry in 1946. They used the mark "Bogoff" and "Jewels by Bogoff". Their jewelry is usually made in small quantity.
BOUCHER
Boucher designed jewelry for Mazer Bros. in early 1930s. Established his own company, Marcel Boucher and Cie Company, in 1937. The company became a subsidiary of Dovorn Industries, a watch manufacterer, in 1972. Marcel Boucher died in 1965. Sandra Boucher, his wife, ran the company until 1972. Boucher jewelry is usually signed and carries an inventory number. Early marks are "Marboux" or "MB" in a cartouche. Later marks are "Marcel Boucher" and "Boucher". Marcel Boucher jewelry is high-end and can be tough to tell from the real thing.
CINER
Emanuel Ciner founded Ciner in 1895. The company made fine jewelry initially and began making high-end costume jewelry in 1931. They are known for using good quality stones and their faux pearls are coated glass beads with high pearl lusters.
CLAUDETTE
Claudette or C. Claudette are marks first used in 1945 by the Premier Jewelry Company who produced costome jewelry in New York.
CORO
The CORO jewelry company started doing business about 1900. It was the largest of all costume jewelry manufactures, and marked the jewelry in many different names. The list is too long to publish here but the top of their line was CoroCraft with Coro in script and with the pegasus emblem in block or out side of block. Later the top of the line would become Vendome, and they could compete with some of the most famous manufactures of costume jewelry. Katz was the famous designer for tremblers and crowns for this company and was head of company in the 1940s. The Coro company went out of business in 1979 after 80 years of making costume jewelry.
EISENBERG
Eisenberg actually began as a Dress company in 1914. Large rhinestone dress clips were accessories to the dresses, and became such a hit that they were sold separately. Eisenberg began to market its jewelry around 1930. In 1958, Eisenberg began production of jewelry exclusively and abandoned its clothing line. From 1973-74, Eisenberg created enameled artists pieces. Eisenberg Original clips were produced from 1930-1945. In the early forties a script E was used alone or along with Eisenberg Original. Eisenberg Ice was used from the 40s on with most being rhodium plated. EISENBERG in block letters began in the 70's.
EUGENE
Eugene, a costume jewelry designer, used to work for Miriam Haskell but started his own costume jewelry business in the 50's. His design is elaborate much like Haskell's. He ceased production in the 1960's.
FLORENZA
Florenza was in operation from about 1937. Florenza operated under the name Dan Kasoff, Inc. as a manufacturing industry, and did not start marking its own production jewelry FLORENZA until 1950. Florenza went out of business in 1981.
GARNE
The Garne mark was first used in 1945 by a small costume jewelry company in New York called the Garne Jewelry Company. Their pieces are hard to find.
HOBE
Hobe' has been in busines since the late 1800s, rich in jewelry history and it seems to be a family tradition. The jewelry items they created in the early years were of museum antiques and quality even though they were costume jewelry. They were considered good enought for queens. Hobe' quit manufacturing jewelry some time in 1992.
KRAMER
Kramer or Kramer of New York was a leader in making fine costume jewelry. They first used the mark around 1943, and produced jewelry using the best quality rhinestones available. The early Kramer jewelry is sought after by most ardent collectors of Kramer costume jewelry. Marked "Kramer of NY" and then "Kramer of NY City" and in the 1950s "Kramer" on oval plaque and after just "Kramer".
KREMENTZ
Krementz and Company was founded in 1866. They originally manufactured mens jewelry, mainly collar buttons and cuff buttons and later tie clasps and cufflinks. The Krementz and Lester families each owned 50% of Krementz and Co. In 1936 the company split into two separate parts, with each family specializing. Lester & Co. took over manufacturing fine gold jewelry and Krementz & Co. made 10 karat and 14 karat gold jewelry their specialty. From the 1930's on Krementz became known for its gold overlay process which no other company was able to master as they did. In the 1930's when collar buttons were no longer in demand, they started making women's jewelry which did not become popular until the 1950's. Their 10 karat line which sold mainly in department stores is labeled "Diana." Their workmanship, design, and detailing are excellent.
L/N
The mark L/N (Little Nemo) is a mark signifying "Nemo Gold Seal Quality" belonged to the Brier Manufacturing Company. This company produced high quality brooches, necklaces, bracelets, dress clips, earrings, tiaras, hair clips, etc. and was located in Province, Rhode Island. The Nemo mark was first used in 1913.
LISNER
The Lisner jewelry mark was first used in 1935, a mark of D. Lisner & Co in New York. They used their mark in block print and script and it is the mark of Lisner & Richelieu. The quality of the jewelry they made ranged from very good to above average. They made much of their jewelry in the 1950's and the quality was lacking in the lower end of their carded jewelry. They did make some well designed and above average costume jewelry. The Richelieu line of jewelry would rank with some of the best manufactures. "LISNER" in block was the mark first used in 1935. "Lisner"in script was first used in 1938, and then in 1959 the mark used most was "Lisner", in a block type letter with a long L. These marks may appear on jewelry made by Lisner over a period of 55 plus years and it is not possible to date a item by the mark alone. Molds and findings were kept and stamping dies were rarely disposed of and there fore they were used again and again at later dates. Lisner pieces often have colorful rhinestones (including aurora borealis stones) and molded plastic/lucite stones.
MAZER
Joseph J. Mazer Company was a high-quality costume jewelry company founded in 1927 in New York. Their early pieces are mared Mazer Bros and the later pieces marked MAZER or JOMAZ. The company went out of business in 1970's.
MCCLELLAND BARCLAY
MCClelland Barclay Jewelry is extremely rare and among the best costume jewelry made in America. He created jewelry for only six years. His life ending in World War II.
MIRAM HASKELL
Miriam Haskell (1899-1981) was an elegant artist who began selling jewelry when she ran a gift shop in 1924 in the McAlpin Hotel at Herald Square, New York. She moved to West 57th Street where she supervised production of her costume jewelry as designed by Frank Hess, and in 1933 moved again to 392 Fifth Avenue where she remained until the 1960's. Miriam Haskell jewelry has always been noted for the detailing, which directly translated into the time it took to make and thus the cost, and for the asymmetry of many of their designs. In the early years, Haskell jewelry was not marked and production was limited. There are distinct characteristics an expert looks for including the design itself which often incorporates surprises or irregularities. Quality is always evident with finer quality materials and all prong set in the design. Haskell jewelry is known for its use of elaborate filigree and careful wiring, all handmade and accomodating a variety of designs. Haskell filigree was typically electroplated goldtone metal in an antique gold finish. She purchased her beads mostly from France and Venice, Italy, while most crystals came from Bohemia. The advent of World War II forced Haskell to sometimes use alternative materials including for the first time plastics, and she purchased more of her beads and crystals from sources closer to home. In the late 1940s, Miriam Haskell jewelry started to be marked for the first time including an incised "Miriam Haskell" on the hook, "Miriam Haskell" in a crescent shaped cartouche and an oval stamp "Miriam Haskell" on the clasp. The company was sold to Frank Fialkoff in 1990 and is still producing today, making some of the older designs such as the Retro line introduced in the early 90s as well as doing custom work.
MONET
Monet is a high-quality costume jewelry manufacturer founded by Jay and Michael Chernow and began making jewelry in 1929. The mark Monet was first used in 1937. Monet developed the very comfortable "friction ear clip" for non-pierced earrings and the "barrel clutch" for pierced earrings. This company has been sold many times.
NAPIER
Napier-Bliss was a costume jewelry company which began production in the 1910's. It was headed by James H. Napier from 1920 until 1960. The company was bought by Victoria Creations in the 1980's.
ORIGINAL BY ROBERTS
The firm was founded in New York City in the 1940's by Robert Levy, David Jaffe and Irving Landsman as Fashioncraft jewelry. Irving Landsman left in 1951 and the name of the firm became Robert Originals, Inc. The jewelry was never cheap. In the mid 1940's, a pin and earring set would sell around $50.00. The firm supplied jewelry to the motion picture industry including the 1952 oscar nominated "Elia Kazan movie" Viva Zapata" fearturing Marlon Brando and Jean Peters. Levy retired in 1976 and the firm became Ellen designs until 1984.
SARAH COVENTRY
Sarah Coventry received its name from Charles H. Stuart, the founder of Emmons Home Fashion. Sarah was named after his grand daughter where as Emmons was named after his wife, Caroline Emmons. The mark for "Emmons" was first used in 1948 and Emmons was incorporated in February of 1949, with Sarah Coventry coming into being, November of the same year. They started their business under home fashion shows and maintained the way they did business till 1984, and were sold to a Chicago based firm who produced jewelry for a Canadian company using the same name. Sarah Coventry continued making fine jewelry with precious gemstones under P&B Manufactures. The home shows were discontinued in 1984.
The first known marks were "Coventry" used in 1949, for both men's and ladies jewelry. The next known mark was "Sarah Coventry" and in 1950 the mark of "SC" was first used. Then sometime around 1951 the mark of just "Sarah" was used and they continued to incorporate the mark into later jewellery. The Mark "SC" was still in use in 1953 for costume jewelry, and in 1960 the mark of "Sarah Cov" came into existence.
The mark of "SAC" has been attributed to Sarah Coventry jewelry but there are no records indicating when it was used but the mark existed in the mid 1950s and was used to the 1960s. This is most likely because the name of of Charles Stuart's grand-daughter was Sarah Ann. Emmons and Sarah Coventry did not design or manufacture their own jewelry but purchased their designs that were manufactured by other producers of costume jewelry around the Providence, Rhode Island area.
RICHELIEU
The Richelieu mark was first used in 1911 and the pieces were made by the Joseph H. Meyer Bros. company in New York.
SHERMAN
Sherman, a Canadian costume jewelry company, began production in 1947 until 1981. Their pieces are high-quality, expensive and very collectible. They use exquisite colorful stones and the pieces are beautifully designed.
TRIFARI
The company is founded around 1918 as Trifari and Krussman later in 1920's Carl Fishel joins company and becomes Trifari Krussman and Fishel. In early 1930 Alfred Phillipe becomes head designer after joining the company, and under his leadership the real jewelry look is born. He introduced his famous crown pin in 1941, and the success of the company was almost certain from that time on. It became the second largest company, second only to Coro, but the quality was to belong to Trifari. The crown above the T was to become their trademark.
WEISS
Albert Weiss. Weiss is one of the premier designers of top quality costume jewelry, on the par with Eisenberg, Boucher and other great designers of the 40's and 50's. Weiss jewelry was a 1940s company and discontinued business about 1971, they were a much underrated name in the costume jewelry business but some of their jewelry was purchased from Hollywood Jewelry Co and Weiss applied their signature to it. Located in New York, NY. they created a low end line and high end line of costume jewelry and also made some high quality collectible items. Their out put was no where near Trifari and Coro but they did maintain a very good line of jewelry. The first mark used was "WEISS" in block print, later came the mark of "Weiss" in script and "Albert Weiss" or A W Co. with the W looking some what like a crown. The later mark was introduced sometime in 1951 and used by the president of the company, Albert Weiss.
VENDOME
D. Vendome was the superior line of jewelry. The mark was used as early as 1944 on charm bracelets and faux pearl jewelry. The Vendome line which began in the 1950's did not become popular until the early 1960's largely due to beautiful designs introduced by Helen Marion, Vendome's principal designer. Vendome replaced Corocraft which up to that time marked the higher quality jewelry made by Coro. Vendome jewelry used the best of imported rhinestones and faceted crystal beads. The clarity and brilliance of the stones and top quality metal work combined in artistically expressive designs were the main factors behind Vendome's success. Vendome jewelry is highly collectible and should continue to rise in prices.
How to Care for Rhinestone Jewelry
There are several things to remember when caring for new or vintage rhinestone jewelry. These are all elements which could cause deterioration over time:
1. Scratching. Be careful that your jewelry isn't stored so that the pieces rub against each other. General scratching, at best, and scratching/loss of stones at worst could be the result. Leave room between the pieces and, if they are especially valuable, a soft pouch or cloth around them might be considered.
2. Temperature changes. Any increases or decreases in temperature can affect the glue and cause stones to fall out.
3. Moisture is Jewelry's Biggest Enemy. Moisture can be the breeding ground for "Verdigris" (looks like green gunk) or rust damage, plus pitting of metals. See more details about cleaning Verdigris below. All rhinestone jewelry is also at risk of losing the foil backing behind each rhinestone, losing the rhinestone's luster if moisture comes in contact with it. For this reason, it is especially important to be careful wearing jewelry in moist places, i.e. the beach, saunas, pools, even in very rainy weather. Chlorine is particularly damaging to stones and metals. Also important is to make sure that the jewelry is completely dry after any cleaning is done before putting them away.
4. Containers. As stated above, soft pouches or cloths around special pieces are a good choice. Other good choices are metal or plastic containers and zip lock bags. Zip lock bags are especially good for storing rhinestone jewelry; if a stone gets dislodged, it stays in the bag. If you have a large collection of display vintage jewelry, a curio cabinet is fine for storage.
5. General storage tips. Keep items separate from each other, and be sure to store beaded jewelry flat, especially if it is strung on silk, because silk stretches over time. Keep jewelry away from sunlight, heat vents, and hot car interiors.
General Cleaning Tips
No matter how carefully you store your jewelry, some dust will eventually get into the storage area and into the jewelry:
1. There are many products available to clean vintage jewelry. Make sure that the one you choose does not contain alcohol, acids or ammonia. If you decide to use a product designed for cleaning jewelry, please read the label and make sure that the product matches the piece. For example, don't use sterling silver cleaner to clean rhinestone jewelry.
2. Windex, sprayed onto a soft cloth, is a good choice if you do not go the jewelry cleaner route. BE SURE, in either case, not to spray the cleaner directly onto the jewelry, but rather onto a soft cloth first, in a very small amount...just enough to do the job.
3. Before cleaning inspect the jewelry for dust and other grit. Use a magnifying glass or loupe. It will help to see if there are any loose stones or settings, which can be tightened before attempting to clean. In all cases, the softest toothbrush (or make-up brush) you can find is a good choice to lightly dust first before attempting to clean. (Be VERY careful when cleaning Aurora Borealis (AB) stones, since they scratch easily.)
4. Once you have lightly dusted the jewelry, spray a little Windex, or jewelry cleaner on a very soft cloth. Make sure that it is not too wet. It should be just damp enough to get the job done. If there is dirt in small places, a little cleaner on a Q tip will be useful.
5. In all cases, be sure that the jewelry is completely dry before putting it away. Remember that moisture is jewelry's biggest enemy. Dry for at least 15 minutes UPSIDE DOWN so that any moisture will flow away from the jewelry, not into the settings.
6. Finally, a soft polish with a special polishing cloth, like a Sunshine Polishing cloth. (can be purchased at many places online, and some jewelry shops.) They are inexpensive cloths and do a wonderful job of polishing a jewelry piece to make it look almost new.
7. How often to clean? There is no general rule of thumb. If it is a piece that you wear often, you could clean it every week or two. If it is a special piece that is used only occasionally, you might just clean it right before wearing it, or when putting it away again for storage.
The dreaded "green muck" found on vintage jewelry is not only harmful to that piece, but easily spreads to other jewelry in direct contact.
How to Remove Verdigris
You get a lovely new piece of vintage jewelry and are so excited about its beauty until, on close inspection, you discover that awful green gunk on it. If you are reading this article, you've probably had this happen to you.
What is Verdigris?
Verdigris is the common name for the chemical Cu(CH3COO)2. It frequently occurs when vintage jewelry is exposed to moisture, makeup or other contaminants over a period of time. If not caught in time, it can severely damage your jewelry. The color of verdigris can range from dark green to bluish green. Verdigris can also be passed from one piece of jewelry to another, so damaged pieces should be separated from those that aren't. Be especially careful to inspect large messy jewelry lots purchased from auctions, garage sales and thrift stores to separate any infected jewelry from those which have no damage.
Common places for verdigris to occur are on clasps, on inner parts of chains, on end caps and spacer beads. Any metal surface of a piece of jewelry is a potential host. Surfaces near the neckline are particularly susceptible.
Verdigris Means Damage
This must be stressed. If you have green gunk, you have damage. How severe the damage is will determine how successful the attempted repair will be. Even if you only have a tiny amount of green gunk on the jewelry, it means that a tiny amount of the plating is damaged. Severe verdigris means severe damage, with the result that the metal is compromised. Verdigris on prongs means that they may not be able to hold stones in place. On clasps, it means that you take the risk of the piece coming apart from brittleness.
Cleaning Methods for Removing Verdigris from Vintage Jewelry
There are several different methods to clean verdigris. Catsup, lemon juice and vinegar are all touted as being good for the job at hand. All are suggested because of their acidic base. But be careful, all of these suggestions should be used with caution...there is no guarantee that the process won't damage the piece in other ways. Whichever method you try, always use a soft bristled brush first to remove any lose green gunk.
Any of these remedies may leave you with a piece of jewelry where the metal has lost its plating. But, it is better to have plating loss than the severe damage that verdigris can cause over time.
Catsup
Catsup has the advantage of not moving around...it stays where you put it, but it is also very messy and is hard to clean when the repair is finished. Use it in small amounts, preferably with a cotton swab or toothpick, and check frequently. Catsup is better used on rhinestone pieces because it isn't so liquid and liquid damages rhinestone foil backs.
Vinegar
Straight vinegar is very acidic and can also be used. It isn't as messy and is a better choice for jewelry pieces such as glass beaded jewelry and metal jewelry. Soak the piece in straight vinegar for 15-20 minutes and use a toothpick or cotton swab to get into any small areas. You can also scrub the area with a toothbrush to help remove the green gunk. Sterling silver and some gemstones should not be soaked in vinegar. Also, never soak rhinestone jewelry in vinegar, because the liquid will damage the foil backs of the stones. Finally, silver plated pieces shouldn't be soaked in vinegar.
Lemon Juice
Lemon Juice is used in the same way that vinegar is. I prefer it for some of the same reasons. It isn't messy and is a good choice for glass and metal jewelry. It is also my method of choice for copper jewelry with verdigris. Plus, it has the added benefit of smelling much nicer than straight vinegar.
Final Notes
In all cases, be sure that the piece is very dry when you are done cleaning. Moisture is what starts this problem in the first place. You don't want to do all this work and be back to first base when you are finished.
