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   1928
   Stanley Hagler, Mark Mercy & Ian St. Gielar
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   Gerard Yosca
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   Cini
   Star-Art
   Coppola e Toppo
   Walter Lampl
   Los Ballesteros

Iradj Moini

Castlecliff
   Elzac
   Swoboda
   David Andersen
   Fred A. Block
   Déja/Réja
   Chanel
   Silson

B. David
   HAR
   Pennino
   Ben Amun
   William Kerr
   Kirks Folly
   Esther Lewittes
   CIRO
   Aksel Holmsen
   Jakob Bengel
   Auguste Bonaz
   Van Dell
   ORB [Otto R. Bade]
   N.E. From
   Graziella Laffi
   Freirich
   Husár D

Mary Frances
   LIA
   DeRosa
   DeNicola
   Stephen Dweck
   Sam Kramer

Louis Rousselet  Catherine Popesco

 Sigi Pineda
   Josef Morton
   McClelland Barclay
   Lunch at the Ritz
   Larry Vrba
   Agatha Paris
   Leo Glass
   Claudette
   Charel
   Monies
   Staret

Hans Hansen
   Engle Brothers
   Ed Wiener
   Korda
   Adele Simpson
   Louis Féraud
   Panetta

Joseph Wiesner
   Lea Stein
   Reinad
   Thelma Deutsch

Maricela [Isidro Garcia Pina]
   Garne
   Robert Mandle
   Antonio Pineda
   Butler and Wilson

Nolan Miller
   Suzanne Bjontegard
   Scaasi
   Zoe Coste
   Henry Steig

DeLillo
Diamonbar
   Capri
   Cathe
   Attruia
   PAM
   Selro & Selini

ORA
   Jeray
   Urie Mandle
   Nina Ricci
   Yves Saint Laurent, YSL

Anna Greta Eker
   Lapponia
   Carl Ove Frydenburg, COF
   Rachel Gera
   Am Lee
   Oscar de la Renta
   Calvaire
   Carol Dauplaise
La Roco
   Richelieu
   Denbe

Henkel and Grosse
   Allan Adler
   Vogue
   Judith Jack
   Parco
   Tone Vigeland

Ledo, Polcini

R.J. Graziano
   Swarovski
   Tortolani
   L. Razza
   Emmons

Michal Golan
   Dalsheim
   Celebrity
   ORNO
   Du Jay
   Banana Bob
   Rousseau

Jolie Gabor
   Stuart Nye
   Kay Denning
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   Paul Lobel
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   Karl Lagerfeld
   Jorgen Jensen
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   Cacharel
   Norma
   Ann Vien

Leru
   Hedy
   Edgar Berebi
   Scholtz and Lammel
   Jeanne
   Norma Jean
   Bob Mackie
   Guy Laroche
   Dorothy Bauer
   Christopher Radko

Tancer II
   Christian Lacroix
   Elizabeth Taylor
   Mark Edge
   Roman
   Laurel Burch

Lanvin
   Flying Colors
   Mizpah
   Virgil Cantini
   Ed Levin
   Lilly Dache
   Dodds
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   langani
   Perli
   Bill Schiffer
   Duane
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   Botticelli
   Triad
   Tara
   Jewels by Julio
   Amy Lacombe
   Escada
   Irena Bryner, Irena Brynner
   Marlene
   Margot de Taxco

Caroline Gleik Rosene
   Judith Leiber
   Hess-Appel [Jolle]
   Phyllis Jacobs
   Rebecca Collins
   11 W. 30th Street
   AJC
   Continental
   James Arpad
   Goldette
   Bellini
   Jay Strongwater
   Erickson Beamon
   Vera Wang
Vera Wang
Gale
   Thomas L. Mott, TLM
   Star
   Gret Barkin
   Kenneth Begay
   Pakula
   Kultaseppa Salovaara
   Gucci
   Marcin Zaremski
   Art Smith
   Rozen
   Sten & Laine
   David Mandel [The Show Must Go On]
   Halbe
   Sweet Romance
   Edlee
   Mary DeMarco
   Robert Gardner
   St. Labre
   Robyn Rush
   Cony/Victoria
   Chico's
   D'orlan, Dorlan
   Elsa Freund
   Mamselle
   de Passille- Sylvestre
   Donald Stannard



 

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Amazing Adornments presents The History of American and European Costume Jewelry Designers and Manufacturers Including American Modernist Jewelry.  As we find out additional facts and gather additional hallmarks about the designer or manufacturer, we will add them. We will add additional designers as time permits and update these pages often. All hallmarks, maker's marks and gold or silver content marks on this page are from jewelry for sale or previously sold at our online store.

This is a work in progress!

and a labor of love

   Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape


 

   

American Designers and Manufacturers

Jump to Costume Designer History and Hallmark Page Two

11 W. 30th Street  
1960s- 1970s. There is very little information about this company. It is believed that they were one of the companies that sold kits to the public. Some of the jewelry is unsigned while others are signed. I think that fact leads to the speculation that the crafted by the public pieces might be the ones without the hallmark. I am not sure.  This hallmark is relatively rare. If the piece is signed that is obviously a plus. The signed pieces are becoming quite collectable. 11 W. 30th Street Hallmark
1928  
California. Founded by Melvin Bernie and Veta Nelson. Began making costume jewelry in 1968. Still a family run company with a current website. Jewelry is usually ornate with a Victorian look. The back are almost as pretty as the front in most cases.  It is possible to find unsigned pieces that were originally on cards or had a hang-tag.
A&Z  
Founder (s): Carl Anshen and Saul Zietlin - Providence RI, USA 1905 as the A&Z Chain company. Somewhere along the way this company became part of the Hayward Company. Back to top
Accessocraft  
Founder (s): Edgar Roddheimer and Theodore Steinman  1935-1998 NYC as the Accessocraft Products Co.  Both of these gentlemen worked as salespeople for Monocraft, now known as Monet!  Theodore's son Paul ran the company until it closed. Several design firms such as Anne Klein contracted with the firm to produce their designs because of the reputation Accessocraft had for quality workmanship. Signature Designs: WWII relief pins, opera glasses, magnifying glasses, buttons, buckles. Their jewelry was bold and innovative.  Back to top
AJC  
American Jewelry Chain Company ~ Late 1920s to late 1990s. Cute figural pins some with stones.
Back to top

 
AJC Hallmark
AJMC  
American Jewelry Manufacturing Company  
Alva Studios
New York. Known for producing high quality museum reproductions.  Back to top



Alva Studios Hallmark
Ben Amun  
Founder: Isaac Manevitz - Born in Egypt and has a showroom in NYC. His bold and trendy jewelry can be seen in fashion magazines and on several starlets. He has designed for Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein. He has been designing jewelry for over 30 years. Has current website. Back to top
James Arpad  
High end jewelry is made of the best crystals set pave style. He also produced a line of evening handbags with Luc Benoit. He also designed a line of beaded pins for AIDS charities. Back to top


James Arpad Hallmark
ART  
Owner: Arthur Pepper -I have seen different dates for their production 1940s- 1960s and 1950s-1980s -Also known as Mode Art Company, they produced medium to high priced costume jewelry under the name Art Mode Jewelry Creations, Inc.  Figurals and especially fine Victorian and Art Deco replicas were among some of their finest work. Materials and techniques included: Carved plastics, clustered rhinestones, enameling and beautiful filigree work. Jewelry that resembles that of Florenza. Back to top
Atlas  
Attruia  
Anthony Attruia- Providence RI ~ Known for fabulous Christmas tree pins made with handset Swarovski rhinestones and crystals.  Back to top

 

Austria  
Jewelry marked Austria or Made in Austria can be found at the high end and the lower end. Most of the higher quality pieces incorporate the highest quality stones. Jewelry has been imported from Austria for decades. In the early 1900s the pieces were mostly made from crystals. Two collector favorites are the fruit pieces and the forbidden fruit pieces. Back to top  Austria Hallmark
James Avery  
Avon  
At the age of 28, David H. McConnell began a company named the California Perfume Company. The company's first color catalogue was produced in October of 1906. By 1928 there were 25,000 reps selling the companies products.  In 1939 the company changed it's name to Avon Products, Inc. The first products offered were vanity sets, a toothbrush and talcum. In 1954, Avon began it's wildly successful "Avon Calling" ad campaign. The company moved overseas for the first time. In 1971, Avon began to market costume jewelry. Avon jewelry was produced by other designers such as Kenneth J. Lane.  Still in business today.  There is an ongoing discussion as to whether the certain hallmarks associated with this company are actually hallmarks belonging to Avon of Belleville. Avon of Belleville is a Canadian company. More on this later.  Back to top





















 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Avon Hallmark

Thought to be Nina Ricci for Avon. Have been told this could be Avon of Belleville and not Nina Ricci. I can't say at this point.  2/2010 Update: The NR is most likely not for Nina Ricci.

This mark was found on KJL for Avon Earrings. The earrings are also in an Avon box. Newer [2000] hallmark

1986- 1995 hallmark

"Mark." for Avon - A New Line

Elizabeth Taylor for Avon Hallmark

Elizabeth Taylor for Avon 1993- 1997

Jose Barrera for Avon Hallmark

Jose Barerra for Avon 1989 -Mid 1990s

Avon SP Hallmark

This mark is from a 2007 piece

Avon of Belleville  
1945 to early 1970s.  This company is not associated with Avon Products, the "Avon Calling" company. First, this company operated out of Canada. It was founded by a Abe Mazer [Jomaz/Mazer Bros.]. This jewelry is of higher quality than most Avon pieces. Back to top  
B. David  

1945 - 1993? Cincinnati Ohio -B. David company was a small company that produced costume and fine jewelry. Their output was limited.  This company produced a famous crown pin that is a collectors favorite. Follow the link above to visit the B David Gallery to see the crown. Signature Designs: Pretty, high quality rhinestone combinations, dainty jewelry.  Back to top

 

 

 

Banana Bob  
Annie Venditti - Former professional level figure skater. Creative jewelry that sold in better department stores. 1980s-1990s. Highly collectable. Various styles included Art Nouveau, Deco and Victorian. Metal elements often vintage. Crystals and rhinestones were top quality.  Back to top Usually on a card or with paper hang tag.
Barclay  

Founders: Alvin Rice, Robert Rice and Louis Mark-1946 -1957, Providence RI-This was not jewelry produced by McClelland Barclay which is very expensive and will have the full signature as a hallmark. Barclay first used a hallmark in 1948.Signature Designs: Rhinestones in colors [very often blue] set in gold tone metal.  Back to top

 

McClelland Barclay  

Founder (s): McClelland Barclay 1935 - 1943 -Many jewelry sleuths have spent time trying to decipher the connection if any between this maker and Barclay. the confusion begins with the company Rice- Weiner. Rice- Weiner made and stocked costume jewelry for McClelland Barclay and others including Korda. One of the former owners after leaving Rice- Weiner started Barclay. This confusion continued with what some call the deliberate stamping of similar hallmarks on both companies jewelry. McClelland Barclay was more than a jewelry designer. He was an esteemed painter and an illustrator. He was born in St. Louis, Missouri in the late 1800s. He studied at several art schools and went on to have his work featured in several magazines. During the 1920s and the 1930s he became world famous for his Art Deco jewelry. In 1943, while aboard a ship during WWII, he lost his life.  His fine creations live on! The jewelry is rare. He worked in sterling during 1942 and 1943.  The hallmark never appeared on a raised plaque. Techniques/Signature Looks:  Sculptural Art Deco jewelry, sterling silver.   Back to top

Dorothy Bauer  
Founder (s): Dorothy and her husband Robert Bauer Berkeley, CA, USA ~ 1982 ~ Present. Has current website. Known for cute as can be sculptural jewelry made from high end colored and clear faceted crystals. Her father owned a jewelry store and although she wanted to become a sculptor, she opened her first jewelry shop in 1981. Prior to this she sold hand blown glass jewelry. Her pieces are all mostly hand constructed. Back to top

Dorothy Bauer Hallmark
Erickson Beamon  
Founded by Detroit natives Karen Erickson and Vicki Beamon in the early 1980s. Moved to New York in 1982. Began designing jewelry after needing jewelry for a fashion show.  Their jewelry is made from the best crystals and natural gemstones. The also work in gold and in 2003 they introduced a diamond collection. They have created for some of the best designers in the business including Dior, Chanel and Givenchy. Many celebrates wear their pieces including Jennifer Lopez,  Alisha Keys, Angelina Jolie, Madonna, Beyonce, Paris Hilton, Rihanna and Michelle Obama to name a few. Best known for their hand beaded necklaces. Their jewelry sells at better department stores including Saks Fifth Avenue. They did a very limited run for Target from February 2009 to June 2009. Back to top





























Erickson Beamon Hallmark

The pieces for Target say "Erickson Beamon" on one side of the hang-tag and "For Target®" on the other.

Erickson Beamon Private Line Hallmark
Private Line- Not for Target

Erickson Beamon line is signed Erickson Beamon on one side with a plain second side of the hang-tag.
 

Reverse of Erickson Beamon Private Line Hang-tag
Beatrix  
1946- 1983 Nat Sugarman Rhode Island ~ This company is well known for holiday jewelry. They created it for other companies including Walt Disney, as well as themselves. During the 1960s the company was sold to the manager, Leonard Mandell.  Mr. Mandell sold it to another company in 1975. The BJ mark was first used at that time. The company closed in 1983. Back to top






Also Beatrix which we believe is an earlier mark.
Beau Jewels  

1950s - 1970s? -This is a little sketchy. I have read that the name Beau Jewels was used by Bowman Foster. This mark should not be confused with pieces marked Beau Sterling/Beaucraft. Beau Jewels only signed the earrings when they were part of a set. Signature Designs: Pretty color combinations, large brooches, filigree and rivet construction. Back to top

 

 

 

Beau Sterling  [Aka Beaucraft]

 

1944-? Providence RI.  As of 2004 they were still in business. I goggled their web site and their domain is not registered any longer.  I believe they are not in business at this time and I have read that they sold their molds! Trademark- BEAU-Producers of sterling silver jewelry. Signature Designs: Quality sterling jewelry.  Back to top

 

 

Beaucraft Beau Sterling Hallmark
Kenneth Begay
Native American/Original People/Indian: Navajo silversmith. World renowned and has been called the Father of Modern Navajo jewelry.  He worked independently and also worked for White Hogan during the 1950s. He also taught silversmithing at a university in Arizona and he taught his own son Harvey the art. Kenneth Begay's jewelry is known for clean lines. Back to top




Kenenth Begay Hallmak Kenneth Begay Hallmark
  Another hallmark according to the book Hallmarks of the Southwest is the "KB" with fringed edges.
Bellini
Used by the Formart Jewelry Company, New York since 1988. They also do business as Bellini Creations. Back to top






Bellini Hallmark

Also Bellini by Formart
Edgar Berebi  
1981 - New York~  Has current website showing very elaborate picture frames and objects for the home. Focused on jewelry until the early 2000s. The older jewelry was not marked. Some can be found with paper stickers as labels.  Back to top


Edgar Berebi Hallmark
Bergère  

Founder (s): Herbert & Pohs, Inc., New York City. In operation from 1946 to 1979 -The company had a Providence R.I. office. Their medium to high quality costume jewelry sold at stores such as Lord & Taylor. Signature Designs: Known for their "real" looking costume jewelry. Medium to high quality costume jewelry.  Back to top

 

 

 

Bergere Hallmark

Les Bernard

 

Founder [s]/Owner [s]: Bernard Shapiro and Lester Joy ~ Early 1960s- 1996 -The trademark Les Bernard is a combination of the founders names. Bernard Shapiro is the son of another well known costume jewelry maker, Harold Shapiro founder of Vogue Jewelry Company. Their pieces were innovative, utilizing techniques not seen before in costume jewelry. Les Bernard made jewelry for others. Materials and techniques included: Quality pieces using techniques not tried before such as the setting of flat backed marcasites and rhinestones in the same item. Combining different shapes and stones. Sterling. The use of fabric, crystal and enamel. Back to top

 

 

 



Les Bernard Hallmark

Les Bernard Sterling Hallmark
Fred A. Block    

Founder (s): Chicago IL, USA ~1930s - 1950s- As you can see by the above dates, the company was not in business for long. A showroom was opened in Chicago in the early 1940s on the second floor of the Merchandise Mart according to an ad shown in the book A Tribute to America by Carla and Roberto Brunialti. At least one piece of Block jewelry was designed by Sandor Goldberger. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Quality pieces made with top of the line rhinestones. Enamel pieces, plastic.  Back to top

Bogoff  

Founder (s): Henry and Yvette Bogoff founded the Spear Novelty Company, Chicago, IL in the 1920s. They produced buttons and other items. Jewels by Bogoff began in 1946 to the 1960s -Together Henry and Yvette ran a successful jewelry company that was able to compete with other premier jewelry companies of the day. After Henry died the company was moved to New York. Copyright symbols do not appear on Bogoff jewelry. Signature Designs: Distinctive chain, rhodium finished metal, silver tone metal, small rhinestones, pave set stones, leaf designs.  Back to top

 

 

 

 

 

Bottecelli  
Providence RI

Back to top

 




Bottecelli Hallmark
Boucher  

Founder (s): Marcel Boucher 1937 -1971

Marcel Boucher got his training from the best! He trained with Cartier while living in his birthplace of France.  He then went to work for Mazer Brothers before deciding to open his own company. Marcel married his assistant Sandra Semensohn. Sandra designed watches for Marcel Boucher. She continued to run the company after his death in 1965. She also designed jewelry and was issued several patents. Eventually the company became a subsidiary of Dovorn Industry a watch maker. 

Design numbers accompanied the hallmarks on most Boucher costume jewelry. These numbers while helpful in trying to identify a date for your Boucher piece, they are not etched in stone.

Some Boucher hallmarks include: MB, Marcel Boucher, Marboux, Boucher, Parisina [used for sterling made in Mexico] and Earrite.  MB is one of the earliest marks. Usually this mark was accompanied by the Phrygian Cap. This mark is taken from the helmet worn by the French during the Revolution. There is some diverging opinions on when this mark was used. I have seen the following dates. 1944- 1949 and 1937- 1949.

Another mark is "Sterling" accompanying the MB mark.  The dates for this mark that I have seen are 1942- 1944.Signature Designs: Quality rhinestones, 3D birds that appear to be flying!  

FLOWER OF THE MONTH PIECES:

JAN: Carnation

Feb: Violets

March: Jonquil

April: Pansy

May: Lilly of the Valley

June: Rose

July: Lilium

August: Gladiolus

September: Dahlia

October: Orchid

November: Mum

December: Daffodil

Back to top

 

Phrygian Cap and Sterling Mark

These dates are approximations.

Design Number

Dates

2300- 2350 1945
2351- 2450 1946
2450- 2550 1947
2550- 2750 1948
2750- 3000 1949
3000- 3500 1950

Marboux hallmark

Parisina hallmark

Brooks  

Founder (s): 1960s - 1970s -Very little is known about this company. I love a good mystery so I will keep trying to find out what I can and post it here. It is thought that this costume jewelry was made during the 1960s and the 1970s. The pin below is an good example of some of the pieces I have seen. Signature Designs: Christmas tree pins, gold tone metal, and wire work.  Back to top

The hallmark is "©BROOKS" on a raised rectangle.
BSK  

Founder (s): Benny [B] Steinberg, Hy Slovitt [S] and Kaslo [K] - New York City-1948 to the early 1980s-BSK manufactured mid-quality costume jewelry that was sold in department stores. Their jewelry is easy to find on the market. There is limited information about this company. Signature Designs: Interesting gold -tone and gold plated designs. Average quality jewelry with enameling and rhinestones. Nice color combinations. Produced a line of enamel and rhinestone jewelry called "My Fair Lady".   Back to top

 

 

Laurel Burch

San Francisco- Born in Southern California in 1945 and passed away in 2007. Known for colorful enamel jewelry and lovely paintings. Some of her designs were stamped with the name of the piece.  When she began making jewelry out of necessity, she was her own model. She would also give them away. Soon they caught on and now they are highly collectable.  Back to top
Laurel Burch Hallmark
   
Cadoro  

Founder (s): Dan Stoenescu [previously thought to be Staneslieu. Thanks to Nancy Rossbacher for this information found in Vintage Fashion and Costume Jewelry magazine, Vol. 19, No3. 2009 on page 3.] and Steve Brody, 1954 into the 1980s, NYC-Not a lot is known about this company. Steve Brody was an Broadway actor. His partner was of Romanian decent and their jewelry often reflected that bold style coupled with the glitz of Hollywood. This is high end costume jewelry that has been said to look real. Some say it rivals the beauty of fine jewelry. Their enameled Christmas trees and other holiday jewelry are highly collectable as is most of this Hollywood inspired jewelry. Signature Designs: Hand crafted jewelry. Big and bold jewelry utilizing exemplary materials from all over the world. Based upon movie star jewelry and popular with the "jet set". Glamorous!  Back to top

 

Calvaire  
Founder (s): It  was widely believed that Ray Calish founded this company. Ray Calish is actually Rachel C. Calish according to Ann Pitman in her book  Inside the Jewelry Box, Volume 3. The company was founded  in  the 1920s. Operations seemed to have ceased sometime during the 1960s. There was also the thought that the company was French with divisions in the United States. Ms. Calish was born in San Francisco and the company was founded in New York. She did travel to Europe on a regular basis. Ann Pitman also mentions that Ms. Calish had a partner named Stella Aronson. The jewelry is rare, high quality and commands high prices when found. They also sold accessories. Some of the accessories were marked "Made in France for Calvaire". Back to top

 

Carl-Art  

Founder (s): Providence RI, USA 1936 or 1937 - the 1980s -This company made sterling silver, gold over sterling and gold filled jewelry. They also manufactured 14k gold chains at some point. Most of the jewelry manufactured was dainty, but well made and of innovative design. Rhinestones were used in some of the designs. There is a great article on Carl- Art in the publication Vintage Fashion and Costume Jewelry, Vol.15, NO3, 2005. This article was written by Cheri Van Hoover who is also a fellow member of the Jewel Collect forum. Signature Designs: Sterling, gold over sterling retro looks, dainty. Back to top

 

 

Hattie Carnegie  

Founder (s): Hattie Carnegie 1919 - 1970s- Hattie Carnegie was another fashion designer that made their way in the costume jewelry business. Born in Vienna in 1886, she came to the United States with her parents when she was a child. In 1918 she opened her fashion house in New York City. It was called Hattie Carnegie, Inc. Like Schiaparelli, Chanel and others she began to market jewelry she thought would look good with the outfits she designed. Her costume jewelry was a favorite amongst the actresses and socialites of the day. It was sold in some of the department stores. Carnegie jewelry was/is expensive and very well made. Signature Designs:  Oriental figurals, animals, rhinestone jewelry, and costume jewelry with Greek inspired motifs. Back to top

 

Castlecliff  

Founder (s): Clifford Burst and Joseph Bobley in New York City. 1918 - 1977 -The first use of the Castlecliff mark was in 1941. They also used Sterling Castlecliff and, Castlemark and Cassandra as hallmarks. Their jewelry was well made and sold in better department stores. In the 70s Castlecliff became part of Carnegie Industries Co. In the 80s the company became part of Lucien Piccard Industries. Signature Designs: Intricate designs reflective of history. Gothic, Art Deco and Renaissance in styling. Back to top

 

Cathé  
Founded in the 1960s - California. Used expensive stones and many pieces had usual designs. Back to top

 

Cathe Hallmark

Alice Caviness  
1940s - the late 90s -Alice Caviness began manufacturing jewelry to compliment her fashion designs, much like Chanel and Schiaparelli. She had a abundance of flair, garnering attention for her impeccable style of dress. Her jewelry reflects her sense of taste. It was sold only in the finest stores. Her company was based in Long Island, NY. Alice Caviness designed most of her costume jewelry and was also involved in production and sales.  Her company also produced sterling silver jewelry. She also employed two designers, Lois Steever and Camille Petronzio. They were both young when they joined. Lois went on to run the company after Alice Caviness died in 1983. Camille Petronzio went on to work at Miriam Haskell.  Back to top

 

Celebrity  

Founder (s): Unclear ownership. New York City, NY, USA.  Possible dates of operation are 1950s - 1970s -Another costume jewelry company where the information available is sparse. It is widely believed that Celebrity costume jewelry was sold through house parties much like Sarah Coventry jewelry. It is possible to see unmarked pieces as some where marked only with a paper hang-tag and if a set, only one piece would be marked. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Silver and gold- tone jewelry, some rhinestone jewelry, mixed quality range. Back to top

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hallmarks:

The above says Celebrity NY

Celebrity

Celebrity©

Celebrity on a Plaque

Charel  

Founder (s): Charel Jewelry Co., Inc., Brooklyn NY, USA, around 1945-It is not known when this company ceased operations. The jewelry is relatively rare and of medium quality. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Colored plastics including Thermoplastic  jewelry, Art Moderne influences. Back to top

Chico's  
A boutique/clothier that has been in business for about 25 years. At first they sold Mexican folk art in Florida. They now have stores all over and a web presence. They sell clothing with exotic and colorful prints, accessories, and wrinkle free travel clothing.  Back to top

Chico's Hallmark
Roberta Chiarella  
Contemporary. Handcrafted pieces from mostly Swarovski crystals. Has current website. Her pieces are celebrity favorites. Some of her pieces can also be found on HSN. Back to top



ROBERTA CHIARELLA Hallmark

Ciner

 

Owner and Designer: Founded by Emanuel Ciner in 1892- The company began making costume jewelry in 1931. It originally produced fine jewelry. Their jewelry has the look of real jewelry. Ciner costume jewelry is often referred to as the "Tiffany" of costume jewelry. Ciner costume jewelry is worn and loved by many including the rich and famous. Still in business. Materials and techniques included: Real looking faux pearls from Japan, high quality material including rhinestones. Seed turquoise beads set mostly in gold tone metal. Back to top

 

 

 

 



Ciner Hallmark

Ciner Hallmark
CINI  

Founder (s): Guglielmo Cini, Boston, MA, USA 1922-Guglielmo Cini was originally from Florence, Italy. He immigrated to the United States in 1922. Cini brought with him his talent for crafting jewelry. His early work was crafted in sterling silver and he also created gold plated jewelry. During the 1950s rhinestones began to appear in his work. Some of his clientele were movie stars and his reputation grew as one of the finest master jewelers. The company moved to Laguna Beach, CA in 1957, Cini died in 1979, however his wife an an apprentice named Felipe Mendoza continued the business.  I have read that between 1970 and 1993 the company stopped producing jewelry and then started up again in 1993. Cini jewelry is not always signed, however once you become familiar with his style it is easy to recognize the pieces.  Signature Designs/Techniques:  Sterling silver and gold- plated jewelry. Handmade jewelry. Reproductions of antique pieces, classical look jewelry, repoussé, filigree and 3-D jewelry.  Back to top



Cini Hallmark
Claudette  

Founder (s): Possibly the Premier Jewelry Co., Inc., New York City, NY, USA- Claudette is thought to be the trademark of the Premier Jewelry Company and it was first used in 1945.  It is not clear when this company ceased operations. Costume jewelry with the Claudette mark is rare. The rhinestone jewelry is usually well made. This company also produced plastic jewelry. The plastic jewelry is more available in the marketplace. Some of this jewelry is marked with a paper hang tag. Signature Designs/Techniques:  High quality rhinestone jewelry, thermo- plastic jewelry. Interesting shapes and colors.  Back to top

Rebecca Collins  
Originally from Texas, she began designing one-of-a-kind jewelry in the mid- 1970s. She uses unique material that she travels all over the world to find.  She retired in 2009. Her jewelry sold at Nieman Marcus.   She has a current website. Back to top Rebecca Collins Hallmark
Coro  
Owner(s): Emanuel Cohn and later with Carl Rosenberger ~The name of the company is a contraction of their last names. The history of Coro is as long as it is compelling. There really isn't any way to do this company justice on a single page. This brief version should be just enough to give the reader a flavor of the very influential company.  The company was founded in New York City in 1901 by Cohn as the E. Cohn & Company. Think back to the times, early turn of the century, and the jewelry styles that were popular, the Art Nouveau period. American jewelry was still highly influenced by European styles. The department stores in New York certainly were not paying very much attention to what we now call costume jewelry. Cohn had a business background. He noticed the limited space costume jewelry garnered at the stores. In 1903 he teamed up with Rosenberger, who had knowledge of jewelry, to create the Cohn and Rosenberger Company to fill the void. The new company produced findings for several items including sautoirs and collar pins. In 1911 the original owner, Emanuel Cohn dies and Rosenberger takes over full control. Steady growth continued under his guidance. A factory was opened in New York and the line of items produced expanded. Soon due to increasing demand Coro opened factories in Providence, R.I. and later in Canada. The building and factory in New York was retained. The decision to build the huge factory in Providence was a bit risky since all of this occurred during 1929, not the ideal economic times. The decision proved to be a wise one.

The name Coro was officially used for the first time in 1943. Coro became known as the unofficial jewelry college in Providence. Students arrived from all over the world to be taught the jewelry business. There was no tuition and the students even received a small paycheck. This was another brilliant move as many of these "students" went on to work at Coro. The company went on to become the largest costume jewelry manufacturer in the world.

In 1924 Adolph Katz joined the company. There is some gray area regarding how much he designed, if at all. We have all seen the patents with his name all over them. Katz in his position acted as a representative for Coro. It is thought that his name appears on the patents in this capacity. Certainly Katz was a visionary and his position he had a significant impact on the selection of upcoming lines. His selections and/or designs defined Coro. Coro helped to define costume jewelry in the USA.

Gene Verrecchia was the head designer and responsible for such designs as the very popular "Coro Duettes". The company used many trade/hallmarks. Of note are Francois, Corocraft and Vendome, all were Coro's top of the line output. Coro Craft was introduced in 1937 and Vendome in 1944.  Coro jewelry could be found at many price points. The Coro Mexico line was produced at a taller owned by Hector Aquilar during the years 1943 to 1950. The company was purchased by The Richton International Corporation in 1957 and closed its doors in 1979. Designed and patented the interlocking mechanism for the "Coro Duettes" pins/clips and The "Quivering Camellia" line. Known for figurals and Jelly Bellies, floral and foliate as well as patriotic motifs. Materials used were diverse. Rhinestones, seed pearls, sterling silver, Lucite and so much more!  Back to top

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Old Coro Brooch Hallmark

Coro Pegasus Hangtag

Francois Hallmak

Francois Hallmark was first used in the late 1930s. This was Coro's first high- end line.  

 

Sarah Coventry  

Founder (s): Charles H. Stuart as Sarah Coventry, Inc. Newark NJ, USA ~ 1949- 1984 and again in the early 2000s to Present -Charles H. Stuart founded the Emmons Jewelers, Inc prior to founding Sarah Coventry, Inc. He named the former after his wife. He named the latter after his granddaughter. The jewelry was not sold at department stores, but rather in the home at parties. This was a wonderfully ingenious idea as it was just after WWII and woman were looking for not only income, but to keep up with the trend towards accessories. The jewelry for men and women was designed by outside companies in a variety of styles. Some of the jewelry had Victorian influences, some were exceptionally well made and most were not originally low in price. The company became the largest distributor of costume jewelry and remained so until a change of ownership and the waning popularity of the home party method of sales. Sarah Coventry catalogues are popular as they show the names of the pieces and help to date the jewelry. Between the early 1980s and 2002 the jewelry was not being produced. Sarah jewelry began to show up on the internet. In 2003 the jewelry began to be sold at home parties once again. Sarah Coventry jewelry has withstood the test of time.  Some of the pieces are very popular and have a price tag to prove it. The "Blue Lagoon" set [manufactured by DeLizza and Elster] "Midnight Magic" come to mind. Sarah Coventry jewelry was marked in many ways and some were not signed at all. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Varied designs and quality. Very elaborate Victorian looks, geometric Deco looks, simple chains to versatile combination jewelry. From rhinestones to interesting plastic stones. Back to top

 

 

 

 

Sarah Coventry Canada Hallmark

Craft  
1948- Gene Verrecchia of Coro- Also known as Gem- Craft. His son Ron also ran the company at one point.  Back to top

 

Curtis Jewelry Manufacturing Company  
Providence RI, USA - Trademark "DCE" - Makers of gold filled and sterling jewelry. Back to top

 

 

Lilly Dache  
Originally from France she become well known as a American milliner. She came to America in the early 1920s. She was also a fashion designer and also made ladies accessories. Back to top

Lilly Dache Signature
Dalsheim  

Founder (s): Maurice J. Dalsheim, New York City, NY, USA ~ Late 1930s - 1978? - Founded as the Dalsheim Accessories Company. The company produced costume jewelry, however it is very rare. Most of the pieces were unsigned and marked only by a hangtag. Dalsheim costume jewelry was made with a variety of materials mostly seed pearls, plastic beads and glass. Due to the amount of unsigned Dalsheim costume jewelry and the great difficulty in attributing, this jewelry is not extensively collected. I have seen varying dates for the companies closure. Techniques:  Seed pearl necklaces, some rhinestones, glass and plastic. In 1951 there was an advertisement in Vogue for one of their "Bone" necklaces.   Back to top

 

 

Hallmarks:

 and Dalsheim©

White Jet

Paper hang tags

Danecraft  

Founders/Owners: Victor Primavera ~1930s to present. Providence RI- Danecraft was first called Felch & Company. The "Felch" in the name being James Felch who some have said co-founded the company with Victor Primavera Sr. In 1945 Victor changed the name of the company to Danecraft after buying out James Felch. Victor's son Victor Primavera III came on board as did his daughter Gail. The company is still a family run business. Danecraft promoted their jewelry to better department stores.  Have current website and their jewelry is being sold at many department stores.  Materials and techniques included: Sterling silver, vermeil. Jewelry that looks Scandinavian in design. Neat figurals. Back to top

 



Danecraft Hallmark
Deja/Reja  

Founder (s): Sol Finkelstein as the Deja Costume Jewelry Company, New York, NY, USA ~ 1939 - 1953 - This company had an interesting history as far as the name was concerned. Shortly after opening a company called Du Jay, Inc., accused Deja of infringement on their name copyright forcing Sol to change the name of his company to Reja. The company produced high quality costume jewelry that is considered highly collectable. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Creative designs, mask pins, florals and figural pins. Pot metal pieces with high quality rhinestones.  Back to top

 

Deauville  
Founded in 1850 as  J.R. Wood & Sons. Jewelry with this hallmark is rare. The company is still in business producing class rings and the like as ArtCarved, Inc. They no longer produce costume jewelry. Back to top Deauville Hallmark
de la Renta, Oscar  
Founder (s) Oscar Aristides Renta Fiallo - Oscar was born in the Dominican Republic. He acquired his US citizenship in the 1970s.  At around the age of 18, he went to Spain to study painting and while there began to concentrate on fashion, we are the beneficiaries of this choice! Mr. de la Renta has designed exquisite clothing for several First Ladies as well as Hollywood luminaries. His high- fashion lines can be found in many upscale department stores. He has designed for Dior and Elizabeth Arden.  In 1965, he began his own ready-to -wear clothing line.   Back to top
de Lillo  

Founder (s): William de Lillo and Robert Clark New York, NY USA ~ 1967- unknown- This company founded as the House of William de Lillo, Ltd., was only in business for a brief period of time therefore the costume jewelry produced is rare in today's market. William de Lillo was an immigrant from Belgium. Robert Clark worked at Miriam Haskell and was her chief designer during the 1960s.  Clark had previously worked at Harry Winston and Tiffany's. Known for innovative and very high quality jewelry made from the best materials including Swarovski rhinestones. At some point a line of men's jewelry and accessories was designed and manufactured. Back to top

DeLizza and Elster [Makers of The Juliana Line]  

Founder (s): William DeLizza and Harold Elster ~ 1947 New York - William's son's Frank and Anthony joined the company soon after it's inception.  In the 1960s the company began to produce the costume jewelry that so many have come to know and love - Juliana. These early pieces with colorful rhinestones were not marked in any way at first. During the early years the company also produced buckles and buttons and clear rhinestone jewelry. In 1967 Juliana Originals was created and the paper hang- tag made its appearance. The hang tag said "Juliana Original". Not all Juliana jewelry had a hang- tag. The jewelry had a limited run.  But, oh what a run!  Juliana is only one of the lines produced by this company. The company also produced costume jewelry that had other hang- tags attached. These read, "Tara" and "Gloria".  I believe these were for others rather than their own lines.

Many jewelry companies had their jewelry produced by D&E including but not limited to the following: Weiss, Alice Caviness, Ciro, Coro, Kramer, Kenneth Lane, Talbot's, Victoria's Secret,  Parklane, Karu, Hattie Carnegie and Yves St. Laurent. Some jewelry produced by this company for others was also unsigned. This is important because, your unsigned piece could be a D&E! Frank DeLizza is currently producing copies of some of the old jewelry designs.  

To find out more on this fabulous company please visit: Discovering Juliana Jewelry

View an article about his soon to be released book by visiting: Mr. Frank DeLizza Article

Update- April 27, 2007: The book has been released and it is a great read!  I highly recommend this book for a peek into the inside of this costume jewelry company.

Update- January 28, 2010: For another wonderful reference book you might want to try Juliana Jewelry Reference Book by Ann Pitman - Several pieces of our D&E appear in this book.  Check out our blog post for more information.

Signature Designs: Clear rhinestone jewelry in the beginning. Large and colorful rhinestones. Navettes were used a lot, especially the thin ones. Art glass and other unusual stones. Kite shaped stones, intense color, five link bracelets and necklaces. Layered designs, and a term coined by a member of the Discovering Juliana Jewelry Group, "puddling". This refers to the extra plating that would mound up together between some of the joints on the reverse of a piece of jewelry.  Back to top

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mary DeMarco

Click the image for the bigger view.

An example of "puddling". Click the image for the bigger view.

An Example the Five Link Construction

 

Kite Shaped Stones

 

 

 

Maryland. Makers of handmade, old world style and whimsical jewelry and accessories.  Semi- precious stones as well as Swarovski crystals are used.  Has been in business for about twenty years.  Back to top
Mary DeMarco Hallmark
Robert DeMario  

Founder [s]/Owner [s]: Robert DeMario 1945 - 1960s ~ New York City - Robert DeMario worked for many of the New York jewelry companies of his day before striking out on his own. He did not work for Miriam Haskell, however, some DeMario jewelry has a Haskell like look. It seems that along with Eugene and Stanley Hagler, information about their work at Haskell is false. DeMario had very high standards and it showed in his pieces. It seems he might have created some pieces for Hagler. It is also known that a collaboration between the two during the 1960s never happened. His jewelry became recognized for it's superior craftsmanship and the boldness of his designs. DeMario vintage jewelry is highly collectable and commands very high prices. Materials and techniques included: Similar design and techniques as Miriam Haskell. Layered and sewn beading, filigree backings, seed pearls and leaves that were intertwined. Very detailed clasps.  Back to top



DeMario-Hagler Hallmark
Denbé  
This mark was used by J. J. Denberg of New York, NY, USA during the 1950s. Date of closure is not known. I have seen mid 1950s and 1960. All of the pieces I have seen were well made.  Back to top

 

Kay Denning  
Enamellist. Mod looks on copper. Connecticut 1960s and 1970s. Back to top

 

DeNicola  

Founder (s): Jerry De Nicola 1957 - Early 1970s ~ New York City, NY USA -Jerry DeNicola produced jewelry of high quality meant to rival the real thing. As a matter of fact, one of the early costume jewelry lines was called "The Real Thing". Now if that did not state the companies intentions nothing would have! Another line was called "Young America".  This mark was first used in 1964. During the 1970s, the company became a part of Capri jewelry and the DeNicola hallmark was not used. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Bold, large and colorful jewelry that looks close to "real".  Figurals and astrological jewelry as well as Christmas jewelry. According to several costume jewelry books, this jewelry is highly collectable with prices to reflect the demand and not so plentiful supply.     Back to top

D'eri  
1950s Back to top






Der'i Hallmark
DeRosa  

Founder (s): Ralph DeRosa, 1935 - 1970 ~ New York, NY, USA -DeRosa costume jewelry is exceptional in quality and design. The jewelry was often unmarked or marked only with paper hang tags. DeRosa signed jewelry is therefore rare and will command high prices. When a piece of DeRosa costume jewelry is signed, the mark could be difficult to read due to age and wear. This company was a family run operation. When Ralph DeRosa died in the early 1940s, his wife and his daughters continued to run the company. DeRosa manufactured jewelry for many companies including Elsa Schiaparelli. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Heavy floral brooches with rhinestones and or enameling. Combinations of simulated pearls and rhinestones. Unusual designs and choice of stones. Sterling vermeil. Back to top

 

 

Also: DeRosa imprinted in script, DeRosa Designed Jewels and RdeRosa

Thelma Deutsch  
Founder (s): Thelma Deutsch - 1980 to mid 1990s Back to top

 

Diamonbar  
Founded as: Wachenheimer Brothers Inc. in 1907 ~ Providence RI, USA - This company is well known for their sterling and rhinestone bracelets, especially the buckle type. These bracelets are highly sought after and not easy to find!  Ceased operations in the early part of the 1930s. Back to top

 

Dodds  

Founded as: Jewel Creations, Newark, New Jersey, USA ~ 1952-1997- Jewelry by this company, especially the Christmas jewelry was sometimes produced using kits that sold to aspiring jewelry crafters. The costume jewelry actually manufactured by the company is usually of high quality and is not abundant. Sometimes the hallmark on this costume jewelry cannot be easily read. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Glued in rhinestones of higher quality. Cute figurals. Multicolored stones and cabochons.  Back to top

 

 

Dodds Hallmark

Also: Dodds or Doddz

Dominique  

Founder (s): Dominique  ?- Present [Contemporary Designer] - Dominique has been designing jewelry for many years, however just began signing his jewelry in 1991. His work has been copied and I suppose that is a form of flattery. Nothing can compare to the real thing! Dominique designed jewelry for Weiss and Eisenberg. He is not producing that much jewelry these days and his jewelry is beginning to become highly sought out. Signature Designs: High quality rhinestones, staggering beauty, runway jewelry. Back to top

Duane  
Dates of operation most likely 1950s into the 1960s. Back to top


Duane Hallmark
Du Jay  
Jacques Leff and Jules Hirsch 1934- early 1970s - Produced fine jewelry at first. This is the company that forced Deja to change their company name to Reja in the early 1940s. High quality rhinestone and enamel jewelry, some glass and faux pearls. The company also used solid gold and sterling. Hard to find jewelry. Jewelry that is sometimes confused with Boucher. Back to top

 

 

 

 

Duri

Found on Finger Ring

Found on contemporary looking pin with inlay. Could be Duri Jewelry of N.J.
Back to top


Duri Hallmark
   
Stephen Dweck  

Founders: Stephen Dweck ~ New York City- Stephen Dweck is a much respected contemporary jewelry designer. He studied sculpture and painting in New York City. He launched his first line in 1981 at Bergdorf Goodman and it was all uphill from there. He was soon designing jewelry for high profile fashion designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Escada and Donna Karan. His unique costume jewelry also made it into fashion magazines and is on permanent display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. I have found Stephen Dweck sterling and diamond jewelry selling on QVC.  Signature Designs: Natural stones, gold and sterling jewelry.  Jewelry that incorporates nature and art. Men's jewelry, belts and china. Back to top

 

 

Another mark on some of his one of a kind designs is a beetle.
Mark Edge  

Atlanta, GA ~ Early 1980s to present. Has current website.  Mark creates hand- made organic jewelry for both men and women. He has been mentioned as the new “Designer to the Stars”. Courtney Cox and Vanessa Williams amongst others love his jewels. Recently introduced a line of “Green” jewelry called “Ecovintage”.  Several ladies from the View television program have worn pieces from the Ecovintage line on air. See the promotional ad from Mark Edge below.

The following appeared in the ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF JEWELRY & RELATED ARTS [ASJRA] Newsletter Dated 11/25/2008

NEW ECO-FRIENDLY JEWELRY LINE

 

Jewelry designer Mark Edge is offering a new eco-friendly jewelry line titled, “ecovintage.”  These one-of-a-kind pieces are deceptive in their simplicity and use reclaimed metals and woods, old stock chains and fittings, and vintage crystals.  The line for both men and women, consists of necklaces, earrings, and bracelets and “uses environmental conscious materials, pushing them beyond their conventional uses for a collection that speaks to the sustainable, ‘less is more,’ fashion of today”, said a company spokesperson.

 

During the recent eco-renovation of his turn-of-the-century Atlanta home, Edge found himself inspired by the tarnished brass and dark stained trim used in the home’s original detailing. For Edge, reinventing these elements became the foundation of ecovintage.  Just as his house went from old to new, he gives old charms, pendants, and crystals an updated look by pairing them with silver and gold metals.

 

“Vintage jewelry lines have the potential to look old and worn out, but I melded the old and new to create a fresh look,” says Edge.  “I designed my home to last for the next 100 years and have done the same with the ecovintage collection. Both are timeless and elegant. More and more people are walking the talk when it comes to saving the planet and ecovintage lets them do that in style.” Back to top

 

Mark Edge Hallmark

Mark Edge Hallmark

Mark Edge Jewelry on the View Ladies
Click on the Thumbnail for the larger image
Edlee  
According to the Julia Carroll book, Collecting Costume Jewelry 202, this company was listed in the 1954 Jewelers Buyers Guide.  The pieces I have seen are consistent with 1950s looks and materials. There is no further information about this company. The jewelry is rare, very well made and most incorporates high end specialty stones.  From this, you can guess it is expensive if  you can find it! Back to top


Edlee Hallmark
Eisenberg  

Founder (s): Jonas Eisenberg, Chicago IL, USA  ~ 1914 - Present -Jonas Eisenberg was originally from Austria. He came to the United States in the late 1880s and soon opened a women's clothing firm. In 1914 Jonas's sons took over the clothing business. Prior to 1927, the fashions were not created by the Eisenberg company, rather the designs were "jobbed" out to others. In 1927 the company began to not only design, but also manufacture the clothing. Eisenberg Original was born. Like many others, Eisenberg complimented his fashions with beautiful accessories. The accessories, brooches early on, were made by others companies. They were crafted with the best Swarovski rhinestones and soon became very noticed! The son's noticed also and during the 1930s production and marketing of Eisenberg jewelry began in earnest. Early on the jewelry was not signed as it was only meant to compliment the clothing. Also the early costume jewelry produced by the company for sale was marketed separately from the clothing. In the late 1930s this all changed. The jewelry of these years was marked Eisenberg Original. In the early to mid 1940s the jewelry was marketed under the name Eisenberg Ice which became the official trademark of the company. During WWII, Eisenberg jewelry was produced in sterling silver. Several marks were used and some are listed or shown below. In the 1970s the Eisenberg company produced a line of enamel jewelry designed by well known artists of the time. See pin below. Eisenberg jewelry, especially the older pieces are sought out by collectors and rightfully command high prices. Signature Designs/Techniques:  The best of the best in terms of quality and sparkle. Pavé set ribbon or icing.

Eisenberg Original (squiggly letters) -- used circa 1935-1945
Eisenberg Original plus the mark sterling -- used around 1943-1948
E [script mark] -- used circa 1942-1945
E. [block print mark] -- c.1942-1945 (may have been used later than 1945 if space for mark was limited). Used again during the 1970s on the enamel "Artist Series" pieces.
Eisenberg [in block letters] without © -- used from c. 1945-1958
No mark -- during the 1958-1970 period the jewelry was sometimes not marked.
Eisenberg Ice [block letters] with © -- used from 1970 to the present. 
The company still produces new and re- issued jewelry. Back to top

 

 

 

The two marks above were found on the same piece. 

1970s

Eisenberg 1940s Hallmark 1942-1945

Ellen Designs   
Founder (s): Robert Levy founded the Fashioncraft Jewelry Company, Inc., in New York, NY USA in 1942. The name was changed to Original by Robert. In the 1980s came another name change to Ellen Designs after the then president Ellen Wagman.  Back to top

 

Elzac  
Founders: Elliot Handler and Zachary Zemby, California around 1941.  Novelty jewelry made with a variety of materials including; Lucite, felt, wood, fur and more. Elliot Handler and others later went on to found the toy company Mattel. The novelty pieces, mostly people although there are animals, were very popular during WWII. Popularity waned after the war. They are currently popular with collectors.  As far as I know, they are all unsigned. Some were patented. Back to top  
Emmons   

Founder (s): Charles H. Stuart as Emmons Jewelers, Inc. ~ 1949- 1981 -Like Sarah Coventry, this jewelry was sold at home parties. These parties had become very popular beginning in the 1950s.  Acting as a distributor, Emmons soon become one of the major players in the costume jewelry industry. Because Emmons jewelry was designed and made by others, looks and quality will vary. Back to top

 

 

 

 

 

Also: Emmons and Emmolite starting in 1955

Classiques Entier  
A line by the better department store Nordstrom's. Back to top



Classiques Entier Nordstroms Hallmark
Evans  

Founder (s):  Evans Case Company- North Attleboro, MA, USA ~ 1920s - This company not only produced costume jewelry but also produced accessories such as cigarette cases, compacts and lighters. Their guilloche enameled compacts and cases are some of the most beautiful on the market. Their early costume jewelry was often enameled and some was done in pastels. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Enameling, pastels colors, gold plated metal and jewelry with a Czech look. Back to top

Hallmark:

Evans 

Florenza

 

Founder (s): Dan Kasoff - New York City, NY, USA ~ Late 1940s - 1982 -Dan worked at the Speier Costume Jewelry Company for several years where he learned his craft. He left to open his own costume jewelry company. His son Larry worked at the company in several capacities. The name Florenza [after his wife Florence] was first used in the late 1940s or the early 1950s, however this company was producing costume jewelry under the name The Dan Kasoff Company prior to this. This company not only manufactured jewelry for themselves, they designed and manufactured jewelry for many other companies. Florenza jewelry is distinctive and has an antique look. It quite often resembles Victorian jewelry, especially the pieces that utilize filigree. As of this writing, Florenza jewelry is undervalued and under appreciated in the costume jewelry market. This company also produced accessories for cosmetics firms such as trinket and pill boxes. These were usually ornate. very well made and like the jewelry, an interesting combination of stones was used. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Very well made costume jewelry. Beautiful metal work, usually in antiqued gold- tone. High quality materials. Vanity accessories. Back to top



Rosenfeld by Florenza Hallmark
Flying Colors  
San Francisco, CA ~ 1980s. Founded by former designers for Parrot Pearls. Laurie Croft is the artistic director Liz Corden runs the day to day while Jerry Rush overseas the design. Bold ceramic jewelry in witty designs and bright colors. Back to top





Flying Colors Hallmark
Forstner
Founded as the Forstner Chain Corp. in New Jersey during the 1920s. Makers of sterling silver pieces. They used several makers marks. Closed during the 1980s. Back to top



Forstner Sterling Hallmark

Freirich

 

Founder (s):  Solomon Freirich, France ~ 1900s [I have also seen the date 1920 as the start- up date].  The company seems to have closed in 1990. This company could have been placed in either the American or European section as it had businesses in both the United States and in France. The original name of this firm was Maison David and they manufactured accessories only until around 1955 when they began to produce costume jewelry. The 1955 date is a best guess. In 1922, Mr. Freirich purchased the company and changed the name in the United States. Known for the buttons they made for Christian Dior and Chanel and for their antique look jewelry. In fact, their pieces are such good representations of Victorian jewelry; some has been mistaken for it.  Hallmarks were not used until the 1960s so the unsigned pieces were being attributed to the wrong period. Techniques/Materials:  Very high quality materials. Handmade. Filigree work. Victorian, antique look. Back to top

Jolie Gabor  
Born in Budapest Hungry. There is some confusion as to her actual date of birth. Her family was in the jewelry business. Immigrated to the USA in the 1940s to escape the Nazis. She opened a jewelry shop in New York. She is the mother of the famous Zsa Zsa and also Eva and Magda. Her jewelry is known for its high quality. It is said that her daughters often wore it and it would fool experts. Jolie died in 1997. Back to top
Gale  
Mid 1950s, New York ~ High quality rhinestone and glass jewelry that is not plentiful on the secondary market.  Back to top


Gale Hallmark
Garne  
It is widely thought that this company was based in New York. 1945- 1960s??.  According to the book Collecting Costume Jewelry 303 they were in the import business as early as the 1930s. Not all pieces are signed. Some were sold on presentation cards. DeLizza and Elster, the makers of the popular Juliana line, produced some of their pieces.   Back to top Garne Hallmark
Wendy Gell  
1975-present. New York. She began producing handmade pieces from her house. She gathered a following and was soon approached by a Vogue magazine fashion editor to do a feature. Her pieces sold in high end department stores. She has produced pieces for Disney, she has sold on QVC, eBay and she has a current website.  She is the maker of the now famous large cuff bracelets that are clustered with stones and elements called "Wristy's". Also of note are the Wizard of Oz line and pieces from the movie Who Framed Roger Rabbit. The pieces are usually large and well made.  Back to top
Gerry's  

Founder (s):  Geraldine Giles as Gerry's Creations ~ 1950s - either 1996 or the early 2000s [I have seen both dates several times while researching this company]. New York City, NY, USA-There is very little information available about this company, however it seems they must have produced a lot of jewelry. I come across this jewelry often. I can attest to the widely held belief that this jewelry is quite common. I read in Fred Rezazadeh's book Costume Jewelry that several companies used this hallmark. Techniques/materials:  Figurals, enamel and Christmas pins. Back to top


Gerry's ©
Sandor Goldberger  

Founder (s): Sandor Goldberger as the Sandor Goldberger Company New York ~ 1930s - 1972 -Sandor Goldberger began the company in the mid- to late 1930s. The company produced high quality rhinestone jewelry and beautiful life like enamel flower pins. Some of the jewelry was in the elaborately beaded style of Miriam Haskell. Sandor designed at least one piece for Fred A. Block.  See the book A Tribute to America by the Carla and Roberto Brunialti on page 165 and 167. These pages show and describe and Aztec Mask marked Fred A. Block that was designed by Sandor. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Enamel florals, high quality rhinestone pieces, sterling florals, antique gold plated jewelry, Miriam Haskell look faux pearl, bead and coral pieces. Back to top

 

 

 

 

 

Goldette  

Founder (s):  Ben Gartner as the Circle Jewelry Products- New York City, NY, USA ~ 1958 to possibly 1977, however this date is uncertain. The Goldette mark was first used in 1958. This company produced jewelry with designs that were influence by Victorian and Oriental looks. They also produced Native American look pieces. The necklaces often had several strands and elaborate clasps.  It is possible to find unsigned Goldette jewelry. You can usually tell if your piece was produced by this firm by looking at the clasps and the centerpieces. Techniques/materials: Gold- tone and silver- tone metal, elaborate clasps. sliding charm bracelets, enamel and colorful stone combinations. Back to top

 

 

 

 

 



Goldette Hallmark

Also Goldette NYC

R.J. Graziano  
New York - Has been creating jewelry for about 30 years. Highly regarded for innovative designs and quality. Jewelry sells in major department stores, HSN and can be seen in fashion magazines. His jewelry is a celebrity favorite and has graced the red carpet often.  Known to use Austrian crystals. Back to top

Halbe

New York - Thought to be in business from the 1950s to perhaps the 1960s. This jewelry is hard to find. We have seen pavé set rhinestone pieces, some with enamel and baguettes. The jewelry is usually well made.  Back to top Halbe Hallmark
Stanley Hagler  [Ian St. Gielar and Mark Mercy]  

Founder (s):  Stanley Hagler 1950s to present ~ New York, NY, USA -Stanley Hagler 1950s - 1996 / Mark and Ian 1996 - Present

Ian St. Gielar [1953- 2007] Sadly, Ian St. Gielar died of a heart attack on  March 21, 2007.  His wife Valentina will continue the business using the name "Ian Gielar Studio".

There is an ongoing controversy regarding jewelry made bearing the mark of Stanley Hagler since his death. I am trying to stay out of this while still providing accurate information. Mark Mercy and Ian St. Gielar currently both use variations on the Stanley Hagler mark. Stanley Hagler began producing costume jewelry in the 1950s. His jewelry was unique and well made; however it was not the colorful Hagler jewelry that came later.  It has often been confused with that of Miriam Haskell. The jewelry was hand wired and he was known for his choose of the highest quality materials. Mr. Hagler was also known for his beautiful Russian gold- plated findings and filigree backings. I have seen his work described as "wearable art" and the man himself described as the "Picasso of jewelry." If you see a piece of Stanley Hagler jewelry you would have to agree. Through the years, Mr. Hagler built up quite the clientele including many stars. He also won the Swarovski Design Award in 1968 for the first of his eleven times. Mark Mercy joined the company in 1979.  According to the Vintage Fashion and Costume Jewelry magazine, Mark took on the work habits of Mr. Hagler. In 1983 the company relocates to Florida. The hallmark changes from "Stanley Hagler" to "Stanley Hagler N.Y.C.". Ian joins the company in 1989 and becomes the chief designer. Mr. Hagler passes away in 1996.  Mark and Ian continue to make jewelry in the style of Hagler.  They both design for Hollywood stars, political powerhouses and the like. Techniques/materials:  Jewelry that like Haskell uses seed pearls and are hand wired. Hand-blown glass, the best Swarovski crystals, large pieces that are layered and very intricate. Bold colors, gilt metal and the very famous Russian gold plated filigree backings.

UPDATE: 2008, Feb 21 - I have had the opportunity to communicate with Valentina Ian St. Gielar's widow and she has been kind enough to provide me with some information about her late husband and the Hagler company.  Here are some excerpts of her communication:

Color (as well as volume) was brought into Hagler's jewelry by Ian, in 1989.

 Hagler never retired - he passed most (and later all) of his duties on Ian.

***"Hagler would never allow anybody to be a "Hagler's designer". He would never admit that Ian is actually designing his pieces. Same as, I bet, you don't know that many of earlier Hagler's designs were actually designed by Roselyn Kaplan of Baltimore (I have a Colorado newspaper with an article on this). Anyhow, Ian became an exception. There are letters and other documents" Back to top

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DeMario-Hagler Hallmark

This hallmark is one that was to be used for jewelry created by both Stanley Hagler and Robert DeMario. The partnership did not  happen but Hagler used some of the findings. It does seem Demario created some pieces for Hagler using yet another hallmark.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HAR  

Founder (s):  Hargo Jewelry Company - Dates unclear, actual name unclear, founders unclear. Well, we know the company existed, based upon the beautiful and imaginative jewelry showing the mark, however there really isn't much more information than that. The jewelry produced by this company is of high quality and workmanship. The Oriental themed pieces are highly sought after and command above average prices. Techniques/materials:  Genies, oriental themed figural pins, enameled pieces. Dragons and snake themes. Jewelry with faces. Some use of rhinestones and pearls. Back to top

Miriam Haskell  
1924-present -Miriam Haskell jewelry is known for its elaborate and innovative design as well as the attention that is paid to detail in construction a piece. Miriam Haskell took many cues from the artists of the Art Nouveau period. You can see in her jewelry natural motifs, the intricate flowers, natural materials and complex construction. These items undoubtedly took a long time to produce. It is therefore easy to imagine why a Miriam Haskell item will command such a high price.  Miriam Haskell was born in Indiana in 1899. In her twenties it is said that she ran a gift shop in New York City where she began making jewelry with great success.  Each piece was hand made and so elegant she gathered quite the following. Soon additional space was needed to accommodate her growing success.  In 1926 Miriam Haskell goes into major production. Frank Hess becomes the chief designer. In the beginning of the 1930s Miriam Haskell establishes retail shops at Saks Fifth Avenue, NYC and Harvey Nichols in London.  Miriam oversaw all aspects of production. Hess was a creative genius who had previously worked at Macy's as a window dresser. Most of the jewelry created at "Haskell" was unsigned at this time. In the late 40s most of the jewelry began to be marked. Haskell purchased materials from only the best sources. For example, beads from Italy and France and faux pearls from Japan.  Haskell  purchased faux pearls from Bohemia until the late 30s. After WWII, the faux pearls were purchased from Japan. In the 50s Miriam retires from her company. Her brother Joseph takes over and continues to work with Frank Hess on the "Signature Haskell Look". Joseph sold the company a few years after taking over. Frank Hess retires in 1960 and Robert F. Clark replaces him as Chief Designer. Peter Raines also worked at Haskell during the 60s. Larry Vrba was the chief designer in the 1970s. Miriam Haskell died in 1981. The Chief Designer was Millie Petronsio. The company was sold again in 1983 and 1990. It is still in business today.

Buyer Beware: Miriam Haskell jewelry is often duplicated. Several companies use similar techniques findings and stampings. When purchasing unsigned Haskell take special note of construction of the piece and the materials used. Frank Hess was a perfectionist so any sloppy wire work for example is a dead give away that the piece was re-stored badly or NOT Haskell.

Materials and techniques included: Glass beads, faux seed and baroque pearls, gilt metal, elaborate clasps, filigree backings/stampings and wired construction. Pins had stems that opened partially. Combination of different types of stones and materials. Haskell jewelry can be simplified down to a single design motif. This single motif would be embellished when creating some of the more elaborate jewels. If you are familiar with the Ready to Wear fashion concept of producing a several lines each season then you can understand how Haskell jewelry was produced. If not, think of a simple design motif embellished in different ways thus creating the several pieces or the "line".

Signature Look: Layered tapestry type beading [rhinestones, glass, faux pearls] and gold filigree.

 

From the unsigned years - Two pieces that show the wire work.  Back to top

 

 

 

Patent for clasp used starting in 1975 Click on the Images for a Larger View

 Courtesy of Greg at

www.charlesjoseph.ca

1940s Horseshoe Hallmark

An Early Stamping- Click Image for Larger View

Hayward  
   
Hedy  
Hedison Manufacturing Company - 1909 to 1985- Providence RI - Christmas jewelry. Enamel pieces. Back to top









HEDY Hallmark

Hedy Hallmark
Hobé  

Founder (s):  Jacques Hobé - Paris, France ~1887 * William Hobé - United States ~1927- 1995 I have read that the company is still in business [2006] and being run by sons of William Hobé. While this has been a company passed down to each male heir, I do not think the Hobé jewelry being produced today has any relationship to the Hobé jewelry created by the Hobé Cie jewelry company that the Hobé family began.  Jacques was William's father.  Jacques was a skilled craftsman who earned a reputation as a fine jeweler and it is said he became the royal jeweler to the court of France. William learned the trade from his father.  William immigrated to the United States and found work selling theatrical costumes in the early 1920s.  Soon he was producing costumes and costume jewelry for the Ziegfeld Follies. In 1927, William opens the American counterpart of his fathers company Hobé Cie jewelry company. in the early 1930s, Hobé begins to sell to retail outlets and is becoming a rising star in the theatrical and film world. Many orders came his way. Much like his peer Joseff, his jewelry looked authentic and historically accurate. This was a high profile position and led to many starlets and "super" models [in today's vernacular] wanting to wear his designs. Naturally this helped his retail sales. By the 1950s, Hobé was designing for some of the most famous leading ladies of the day, such as Bette Davis. In the 1960s, William's sons Donald and Robert begin running the company until the 1980s when a grandson named James takes over. The company was sold in 1999 or the very early 2000s although the mark is still in use. Most of the pieces produced by Hobe Cie were designed by the family During the 1030s through the 1970s.  Some of the pieces during this time frame were designed by Lou Vici who worked as a designer for the company. Beginning in the 1980s William's grandson takes over operation of the company. Techniques/materials:  High quality costume jewelry using top of the line materials such as platinum, semi-precious stones and vermeil. Jewelry that looked like the real thing and utilized some of the same construction techniques.  Reproductions of historical jewelry. Back to top

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hollycraft  

Founder (s): Joseph Chorbajian and others as the Hollywood Jewelry Manufacturing Co. Inc. ~ New York, NY ~ 1938 to about 1971 - Hollycraft jewelry has its own look. It is well made and very "rich" looking and ladylike. The stones are most often multi- colored pastel. They always have an abundance of sparkle and depth.  Some of the rhinestone pieces are accented with enamel. The Christmas pins are very popular. The jewelry was first marked in 1948 and in 1950 the company began dating their creations. The hallmarks often had an accompanying date. Made jewels for others. Signature Designs: Christmas jewelry and pastel multi- colored rhinestones. Elaborate settings. Back to top

and Hallmark with the Copyright Symbol

JBK
At first the only information we could find about the JBK hallmark was that it could be  either a Hong Kong company with a Huntington Beach, California location or Jewels by Kevin. I have since found out, thanks to a customer that this is a hallmark found on a line of jewelry sold on QVC. It stands for Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy and the pieces are recreations of her jewelry! Back to top JBK Hallmark
Norma Jean  
  Norma Jean Hallmark

Norma Jean Hallmark
Jeanne 
Possibly the New York company founded by Mark Dottenheim.  The jewelry is well designed with quality elements. According to several costume jewelry books, the figurals are the pieces collectors look for. Rhinestones and faux pearls are often used. Back to top

Jeanne Hallmark
Jeray
This hallmark was used for the first time in 1946 when the original company called Rice- Weiner split into two companies.  Back to top

 

 

 

 

Jeray Hallmark

Jewels by Julio  
1946 - 1957. Providence RI, Marner Jewelry Company, Julio Marsella and Ralph Neri. High quality stones and imported rhinestones. Mesh and beautiful bead and metal work. Made jewelry for others including Hattie Carnegie and Hobé.    Back to top




Jewels by Julio Hallmark
Ginnie Johansen  
Dallas, Texas- Contemporary jewelry and accessories designer. Her pieces are often stamped with the date. She began her company when in her late teens when she was unimpressed with the contemporary jewelry found during the mid 1980s.  Back to top Ginnie Johansen Hallmark
JJ  

Founder (s): Abraham Lisker ~ 1935 Providence RI as the Providence Jewelry Company. Name changed later to Lisker and Lisker and finally to Jonette Jewelry Company-This company recently [2/2007] announced that it was closing. It had a second life in the past so maybe there is a third for this creator of whimsical costume jewelry.  It was during WWII that the company [as Lisker and Lisker] closed it's doors the first time. The restrictions the United States government placed on metal created shortages for most jewelers. The company re- opened after the war and Jonette Jewelry became the trademark.  The costume jewelry created here tends to be quirky, many done in pewter wash.  Also known for figural pins and Christmas pins. Back to top

Jolle  
New York -This is the mark used by the Hess- Appel beginning in the early 1940s. It is believed they went out of business in the 1950s. The company was established in 1942 by Lester Hess and Jack Appel. Hess had done some prior work for Uri Mandle. The company employed at least one more designer, George Fearn who did prior work with Karu. Many of their pieces appear in the Brunialti books. Back to top









Jolle Hallmark
Jomaz/Mazer Brothers  
Founder (s) Joseph and his brother Louis, New York 1920s as Mazer Brothers. In 1946 Joseph left and formed Joseph J. Mazer Company. The trade mark was Jomaz. Some early pieces were created by Marcel Boucher. Louis left Mazer in 1951 but the company did not close until the late 1970s. Adolfo created some of these later pieces.  The pieces were produced with high quality sometimes special order stones. It is often described as elegant.  Back to top
















Mazer Hallmark
Joseff of Hollywood

Founder (s):  Eugene Joseff as Joseff of Hollywood 1935 - Present -Eugene Joseff was born in Chicago in 1905. As a young man [1923 to about 1926] he worked at an advertising agency before he moved to Hollywood in the late 1920s. Once out in Tinsel Town he pursued his real passion, costume jewelry. He soon became a designer and before long his pieces were showing up in movies and on the stars off the screen. The actresses even modeled the jewels in several publications. The jewelry seen in the movies was leased or rented to the studios. The great starlets seen wearing his jewelry created a buzz in the general public. Just like today, ladies watching the movies wanted to emulate the screen goddesses. 1937 or 1938 a retail line was introduced. Joseff copied his original pieces for this line. It is said that only one store per city could sell the jewels produced for the public. I guess he learned something about marketing in his prior career! Joseff is also credited with creating a type of gold- plating that did not produce as much glare under the lights as materials being used. It was a semi- matte Russian gold- tone finish. It became exceedingly popular. Joseff used this plating for his retail line as well. Joseff became known as the leading supplier of costume jewelry to the movie industry. Not bad for a self taught jewelry designer!  Joseff died in a tragic plane crash in 1948. His wife, Joan Castle Joseff carried on the business. NOTE: It is possible to find unsigned Joseff jewelry, however most pieces were signed.  Some of the older designs are being reissued by the Joseff Company for today's market. This is a practice that several companies follow. Eisenberg is one example. To see Joseff of Hollywood's current jewelry line and more visit their website,  http://joseffjewelry.com/index.php  Techniques/materials:  Authentic period designs. Visually strong pieces. Russian gold plated pieces. Crystals that were hand cut. Diverse themes and styles [animals to the zodiac] covering many periods of design. Plastic pieces including the famous five and six petal flowers. Back to top

Older Stamped Mark Joseff Hollywood Dates to the 1930s - 1940s

 

Judith Jack  
Still in business. The team of Judith and Jack Rosenberg have a website that explains how they came to sell their wonderful handcrafted sterling and hand set marcasite jewelry. Their mailing address is New York City, NY. In business for more than 30 years. The highest quality marcasites are used and sometimes real pearls and gemstones.  Their jewelry sells at the high end department store Nordstrom's and has been featured in several fashion magazines.  Back to top
Karu  [Aka -Karu Arke]  

Founder (s): Kaufman & Ruderman, Inc. 1940s to perhaps the 1970s New York City, NY USA -No one seems to know for certain when this company closed. We do know that some fine-looking costume jewelry made with unique stones was produced. Some of the jewelry was unique and made with antique looking brass. The company used several hallmarks. All pieces in a set might not be stamped or marked. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Aurora borealis rhinestones, unique stones, antique look settings/backings. Victorian Revival jewelry. Back to top

Karu Arke Hallmark
Tru- Kay  
Providence RI,  1946 - Moved to Lincoln RI - Have current website where they sell 14k, gold filled, lockets, children's jewelry and religious jewelry. Back to top

 

Kimberlee  
I can find no information on this maker as of this writing. I have seen one set with this hallmark. It was well- made with rivet construction and a filigree backing on the brooch.  Rhinestones and glass were used.  Back to top
Kimberlee Hallmark
Anne Klein  
Anne Klein was born in Brooklyn NY in 1923. Sadly she passed away from breast cancer at 50. Along with her husband, Ben she began her first company focused on young women in the 1940s. Through the years she won several awards. The Anne Klein label began in 1968.  Donna Karen continued the Anne Klein and the Anne Klein 11 lines until 1985. The Jones Apparel Group acquired the brand at one point.
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Anne Klein Hallmark

Anne Klein Hallmark
Alexander Korda  

Founder (s): Rice- Wiener ~ Rice- Wiener also manufactured fabulous costume jewelry for Barclay and McClelland Barclay. Best known for the "Thief of Bagdad" and "The Jungle Book  pieces. These opulent pieces are said to be inspired by the movies directed by Alexander Korda in the early 1940s. Alexander Korda was born in Hungry in 1863. His given name was Sandor Kellner. Jewelry signed "Korda" and "Thief of Bagdad" is rare. The jewelry is marked "Thief of Bagdad" as opposed to "...Baghdad". Many pieces of Korda jewelry have nothing to do with the movies. These pieces are also not prevalent on the market making this jewelry prized by collectors. Signature Designs/Techniques:  High quality, bold and elaborate jewelry. Back to top

 

This mark says "Alexander Korda"

Kramer  

Founder: Louis Kramer, New York, NY. 1943 to about 1979- Louis founded the costume jewelry company as Kramer Jewelry Creations. His two brothers joined the company that was to became known for quality and superior design. In the 50s Kramer manufactured or had pieces manufactured for Christian Dior. DeLizza and Elster manufactured some pieces for this company. Frank Hess, head designer at Miriam Haskell until 1960 also produced pieces for Kramer after leaving Haskell and dissolving his partnership with Haskell's nephew, Josef Morton.  These pieces were hallmarked Amourelle and they had that Haskell look. They date to 1963 and they are very rare.   Materials and techniques included: Netted rhinestones, artistic jewelry, superior quality, the 50s "Golden Look" and the 60s "Diamond Look". Back to top

 

 

 

 

 

 



Kramer Hallmark

Kramer Amourelle Hallmark

Krementz  

Founder (s): Krementz and Lester families in 1866. -In the beginning the company produced cuff links, buttons and other men's accessories. Note that in the ad to the right, cuff links are being marketed along with their costume jewelry!  During the late 1800s, the company began to produce accessories for ladies. In the 1930s, Krementz began to produce women's jewelry. Krementz produced fine jewelry and jewelry that looked "real". The two families parted ways in 1936. During the 50s the company sold a large amount of costume jewelry. The costume jewelry business was sold in 1997. The fine jewelry company still exists. A company called Colibri purchased Krementz (costume jewelry). Colibri closed in 2009.  It is thought that the name was then purchased by an internet company.   Signature Designs and Techniques Used: Developed a technique of 14K and 10K gold plating  - a distinctive overlay process all their own. Delicate jewelry, white and yellow gold jewelry, use of leaves and roses. Back to top

 

 

 

 

 


Krementz Hallmark


Hallmarks are often on the pin rods and very small.
Krementz Ad

Diana Hallmark

Diana is a line of jewelry produced by Krementz that sold in department stores such as Gimbels. Pieces with this hallmark are hard to find on the secondary market.

Kirks Folly  
1979- present NYC. Family  owned. Known for whimsical pieces. In 1992 they began selling on QVC. Have a current website. Back to top


Kirks Folly Hallmark
Amy Lacombe  
Contemporary - Los Angles California 1983. Amy creates handmade ceramic gifts and jewelry. Has current website. Back to top

Amy Lacombe Hallmark
Laguna  
Royal Craftsmen, Inc., New York - Early 1940s. I found conflicting dates as to when they closed.  Some say during the 1970s while others say the 1980s. Known for well made crystal jewelry. They also produced pieces using plastic and sometimes imitation pearls. According to several costume jewelry books, all pieces in a set are not always signed. Back to top




Laguna Hallmark
Walter Lampl  
New York- 1921 -1959. Produced fine and costume jewelry. Wholesaler. Some of the costume jewelry can be found with semi- precious stones. In 1939 his company produced a heart charm for the World's Fair held in New York.  These sterling silver charms went on to become treasured by collectors. The are usually intricately detailed and some call them mini works of art. Back to top





Lampl Hallmark
   
Kenneth Lane  
Founder: Kenneth Jay Lane: 1963 - Present~ Designer of bold, almost always over- the -top costume jewelry. His costume jewelry is sold in better department stores. Some of the newer pieces are being sold on QVC.  Mr. Lane is a designer to several stars including Paris Hilton and Britney Spears. Jackie Onassis and Audrey Hepburn have worn his creations. He  and is the author of costume jewelry books. He was born in Detroit in 1930. He began his career in fashion as a shoe design director at Delman and later Christian Dior. His costume jewelry is highly collectable and very pricey, especially the older pieces. Back to top

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earliest Hallmark: used during the early 1960s into the early 1970s. This hallmark is from an early bangle that also appears in Mr. Lane's Faking It book.

Kenneth Jay Lane ~ Newer

K.J.L. for Laguna

K.J.L. for Avon - Sometimes these pieces just say K.J.L. and could be confused with the oldest hallmark. Usually the presentation box will say for Avon

Lang Jewelry Company
Providence RI Mid 1940s to ?  Back to top





Lang Sterling Hallmark
La Roco  
Seattle Washington Back to top
Ledo and Polcini  
Founder (s): Italian born Ralph Polcini began this company as the Leading Jewelry Manufacturing Company in 1911. Location was New York. The hallmark Ledo was used from the late 1940s into the 1960s.  Sometime during the 1960s the name was changed to Polcini. At this time Ralph Polcini's son, Damon was at the helm. I am unclear as to when the company ceased operations. It appears it was sometime during the late 1970s or 1980s. I have also read that Pamela Polcini, Damon's daughter continued the company. There is a New York Times article dated October, 1989 announcing her wedding and it also mentions that she was at that time the design director of the company. Their jewelry is known for its superior construction and is rare on the secondary market.  Back to top
Judith Leiber  
The Judith Leiber company launched in 1963. Judith Leiber emigrated to the United States from Hungary with her husband in 1947. She studied handbag design in Hungary and brought the skills with her. Her handbags can be seen in the hands of some of the most famous movie stars and First Ladies alike. If you watch the awards shows, chances are most of the starlets are carrying one of her evening bags. Fine and costume jewelry was also produced by this company as well as pill boxes, belts and eyewear. All of the products were produced with the very best materials and are well made. The prices are quite high. Pavé set crystals are a signature technique. Although there is a current website, Ms. Leiber and her husband sold the company in 1998.  Back to top Judith Leiber Hallmark
Judy Lee  

Founder (s): Blanche Viano~  Blanch- Ette Company ~ 1950s - 1980s -This company was similar to Sarah Coventry and Emmons  in the way that the jewelry was sold. The home party was the method of distribution. I have read that the Blanch- Ette Company produced the jewelry. To my eye the quality varied so much that I think some may have been produced by others.  The jewelry was of average to above average quality, sometimes utilizing rhinestones seen in better costume jewelry. The backings also utilized such techniques as riveting seen in better costume jewelry. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Traditional rhinestone jewelry, pretty colors and shapes.  Back to top

Lenox  
Founded by Walter Scott Lenox. New Jersey. Makers of high quality tableware since 1889.  Has commissioned pieces to the White House.  They also market under Dansk and Gorham. This company also produces giftware, collectables and jewelry. Have current website. Back to top Lenox Hallmark
Leru
1950s - 1960s Founded as the Pelton and Leru Corporation in New York. Known mostly for thermoplastic sets.   Back to top Leru Hallmark
Longcraft  
Trademark of The Thomas Long Company. Founded 1946 Boston MA USA. Makers of the Giovanni line as well. Back to top
Lidz  
New York 1895 as Lidz Brothers. Produced novelties, sewing notions, some jewelry buttons and belts. Many items were produced for costumes.  They used several hallmarks.  Back to top

Lidz Brothers Hallmark
Lisner  

Founder (s): D. Lisner Company New York City ~ Early 1900s - Mid 1980s- This company produced a wide variety of costume jewelry during their over 55 years. The jewelry varied in use of materials, styles as well as quality. Taking a page out of the Coro business model, this company made jewelry for all price points. In fact, some of Lisner's jewelry looks a lot like mid- range Coro costume jewelry. Lisner also produced some very nice above average costume jewelry using high quality rhinestones stones and techniques. Their colorful sets with sculptured plastic stones, usually shaped like leaves, are very popular. Jewelry made with the oak shaped leaf is most sought after. Although some of the plastic sets were considered low end and still are, they do not lack quality! The company used several trademarks. A few included: Crystalia and Junior Prom. The first mark was "Lisner" in block letters first used in 1938. name "Lisner" [Long "L" and small "isner"] was first used in 1959. The Lisner name was no longer used on jewelry beginning in the late 1970s. Lisner purchased Richelieu [the pearl company] in the mid 1970s. The name was changed to Lisner- Richelieu and then sold in 1979. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Brightly colored plastic jewelry sets, AB rhinestone sets, molded glass, multi colored rhinestones. Back to top



Lisner Hallmark

Little Nemo

 

Founder (s): Benjamin Brier, Charles Brier and Samuel Magid as Little Nemo Manufacturing Company 1913- 1978 Provenience RI, USA- There is a bit of a mystery associated with the Little Nemo mark. First, Little Nemo is not the same company as Nemo. Or is it? Which company did the above mentioned men actually begin? What does the L/N stand for? Then there is the way the pieces were marked. LN, LN/25, LN/50 L/N and LN in a diamond.  What if anything do these designations mean? No one to date really knows, however it is thought that the LN mark is the earliest. The jewelry is high quality and spans many design styles. Some of the Little Nemo jewelry is geometric Deco in style while other designs are curvy and antique looking. Little Nemo made several patriotic pieces. Pot metal was used as well as antiqued gold and silver- tone settings.  Many pieces can be seen with brightly colored rhinestones and in interesting shapes. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Bright, high quality rhinestones, patriotic jewelry, lovely floral pins, pot metal settings as well as antiqued gold- tone and silver- tone settings. Back to top

 

 

 

Lustern

 

One of the trademarks of the Louis Stern Co. Providence RI 1871 to the 1950s. Makers of watches, watch bracelets, chains and other items. Usually worked in sterling. Back to top Lustern Hallmark
Bob Mackie  
Robert Gordon Mackie. High fashion designer to stars and more in Hollywood for over 40 years. He has worked with another legend, Edith Head. First ready to wear line was introduced in the early 1980s. He has won Emmy awards and was nominated for three Academy Awards for his glittery costumes. Jewelry and other items were added to his line in the 1990s. Some of his jewelry and clothing can be seen on QVC.  Back to top Bob Mackie Hallmark
Mamselle  
Providence RI-  Early 1960s- 1999 Back to top

Mamselle Hallmark
David Mandel  
New York 1980s- present.   Studied design in New York. Known for oversized pieces much like the famous designer he apprenticed with, Larry Vrba! While working with Vrba he was able to accept commissions to design his own pieces in his off time. The idea for his own "The Show Must Go On" line was born! The jewelry is all handmade. They are seen on the runway and on celebrities. It is possible to find unsigned pieces as Mr. Mandel did not sign his early pieces. Back to top


David Mandel Hallmark
Robert Mandle  
Son of Urie Mandle. Made a series of musical instrument pins, mandolins.  Robert did work for his fathers company before beginning his own in 1956.  Back to top




Robert Mandle Hallmark
Urie Mandle  
Founder [s] Urie Mandle and Nat Levy~  New York~ 1938 - Family was from Germany. Worked at Coro in the stock room and later in sales. Worked at Lisner where it is said he built the jewelry line. Began his own company after leaving Lisner.  Jewelry is hard to find. Murray Slater was issued the patents to several of the designs. Back to top  
Kandell & Marcus  
New York- Information is scarce. Well made pieces on the higher end in price. Back to top



Kandell & Marcus Hallmark
Marlene    
Providence, RI, USA as the Marlene Costume Jewelry Company. Sterling Silver jewelry many with a Pirate theme. Other patented pieces included figurals. Active during the 1940s. Back to top



Marlene Sterling Hallmark
Marvella  

Founder [s]/Owner [s]: The Weinrich Brothers ~ Philadelphia PA ~ 1911 - Present- Weinrich Bros. Co. also had a branch in New York City. The Philadelphia firm was called H. Weinrich Company. This firm created great looking costume jewelry that was marked with several different hallmarks. The name "Marvella" was first used in 1911. In 1950 the name was changed to Marvella Pearls and changed again in the mid 1960s to Marvella, Inc.  In 1982 the firm was purchased by the Trifari. In the late 80s Crystal Brands Jewelry Group purchased Trifari. Monet was also a part of this group. Liz Claiborne purchased the entire group in 2000. Materials and techniques included: High quality faux pearls, multi-strand necklaces, faceted beads, beautiful clasps. Not all pieces in a set were signed.  Back to top

Matisse/Renoir  

1946 - 1964 - Renoir was founded in Los Angeles, CA in 1946 by Jerry Fells [along with a partner and his brother- in- law] a native of Brooklyn NY, USA. At first the name of the company was Renoir of Hollywood. After a fire in 1948 that destroyed the building they were working in, the name was changed to Renoir of California. The jewelry created here was inspired by the early 20th century Arts and Crafts movement copper designs. Jerry Fells trained at the Arts Students League and at the National Academy of Design in New York. Fells freelanced as an Art Director for departments stores before taking a permanent job at Gertz department store. Jerry Fells joined the Air Force where he was a fighter pilot during WWII. During the Korean War copper was scarce. The company began making some jewelry using copper and aluminum. This jewelry was not very popular.  In 1952, Fells opened another company, Matisse LTD. Here the designs were copper with colorful enameling.  The jewelry produced here had a "Modernist" look and was inspired by abstract and expressionists art. Matisse pieces were more expensive to create because of the use of enamel as you might suspect. During the 1950s a line of sterling silver was introduced that was more conservative then either of their copper lines. This jewelry bore the makers mark "Sauteur and Sterling".  In the 1960s yet another line was introduced, this time with a brushed gold plated finish. I have a piece marked "Sauteur" with this finish, however the mark changed to "Golden Glow" during this time. Materials and techniques included: Copper and enamel. Geometric and abstract forms. African inspired, flat and coiled wire work.  The cuff bracelets and the fringed necklaces command the highest prices in the vintage collectable market.  Sterling and gold plated designs made for a limited time during the 1950s and the 1960s.  Back to top

 

 

 

 

 


Matisse Hallmark
Early Matisse Hallmark

Matisse Renoir 1960s Gold Plated Jewelry Line Hallmark - Sauteur

Nolan Miller  
Born in Texas, USA in 1935. Costume designer for movies and a long, long list of television programs including Dynasty. In fact, a line of clothing was produced that was based upon the clothing worn by some of the ladies on that program. Currently designs jewelry for QVC along with partner Mark Zunnio. That line is called the "Glamour Collection". Back to top
Iradj Moini  

Founder (s): Iradj Moini ~ Contemporary- Iranian born jewelry designer Iradj Moini has created extravagant runway pieces for Oscar de la Renta and other couture designers. His unique, handcrafted creations are one of a kind and he utilizes the highest- end imported stones. It is said that no two pieces are exactly alike. Celebrities are known to love his jewelry and it has been worn on Sex and the City. His jewelry has been featured at the Louvre. Sold at high end boutiques and department stores. Recent auctions at Doyle New York saw some phenomenal prices for this contemporary costume jewelry. Signature Designs/Techniques:  Imported glass stones, super sized brooches, drop dead gorgeous necklaces, one of a kind jewelry, figurals.  Back to top



Iradj Moini Hallmark
Monet  
Founded by two brothers, Joseph (Jay) and Michael Chernow as Monocraft in 1929, Providence, RI USA. Monet, a Monocraft line launched in 1937. Their jewelry is well made usually in gold or silver- tone metal. Some did have rhinestones. The jewelry spanned many decades so the styles varied but the quality remained. The older pieces, big necklaces and the charm bracelets are favorites. This company has changed ownership many times. Some or most of the contemporary pieces are made in China. Back to top Several Hallmarks including Monet Sterling and Monet in script.

Josef Morton  

Founder (s): Josef Morton Glasser and Frank Hess 1960s as Morton Hess-Both of these gentleman had a connection to Miriam Haskell. Frank Hess was her chief designer from 1926 until 1960 and Josef Morton was her nephew.  It is said the Josef also worked for his aunt for a brief while. After Frank Hess retired from Miriam Haskell he joined with Josef to begin Morton Hess. Together they produced fabulous costume jewelry with beautiful findings and stampings very much in the style of Miriam Haskell. Signature Designs:  High quality stampings, filigree backings, high quality crystals and beads.  Back to top

Musi  
Known for shoe clips in both clear and colored rhinestones. Back to top
Mylu  
Became a division of Coro during the late 1960s. Closed during the early 1970s. Best known for Christmas jewelry. Back to top

 

   

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