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It's our favourite time of the year again

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Yes it's our favourite time of the year again, Christmas. A time to indulge in a bit of Christmas cheer and dress up in my favourite vintage jewellery. We have just changed our cover photograph for a little Christmas one. Hope you enjoy browsing our large website. With around 2000 pieces of jewellery and accessories now available and in stock.


Yes, we are going to call it Christmas. Christmas, Christmas, Christmas - Traditionally so in the UK and will always be that.

A festive time of the year to wear sparkling jewellery - like a diamante necklace at a Christmas party in your best frock. A rhinestone bracelet in clear or red or back glass to add more sparkle to your special Christmas day outfit. Or a pair of dangling glittering earrings to add a little panache to an otherwise boring occasion!!

Indulge yourself now ....

New Necklaces book review by Geek Jewellery

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New Necklaces book review by Geek Jewellery

Another book and another opinion. Is it worth buying this fabulous book entitled "New Necklaces" 400 designs in contemporary jewellery by Nicolas Estrada?

Well having obtained and read many books on both vintage and today's jewellery - this is a must. Especially if you like the little bit of Geek or something very different from the normal in your neck jewellery. It is full of clear images and descriptions of contemporary necklaces and with each turn of the page, more just jump out and fire your imagination. Okay, so many you would not wear, but many you would. Just like some of the clothes displayed on a fashion show. These necklaces are inspirational and daring. Fabulous use of mixed media in some cases and traditional silver and gold in others.
Many people tend to stick to the same boring designs that are "In fashion" and available in their hundreds and thousands. But why follow the crowd - when this amount of necklaces in so many fashionable designs are available.  

What this jewellery book contains.

It has 400 images of cool jewellery from statement necklaces to fine necklaces and beads designed and made by jewellery designers around the world. Big and bold pieces to small and neat. Just love the designs that are totally unusual.

From using new material and many different kinds of materials. This book also has many designs made from recycled items.
How cool is this teddy bear necklace by Soyeon Kim?, who also has a pink rabbit toy necklace depicted.

 Take a look at this fabulous book. It was first published in 2016 and is available at all good book retailers now.

Christmas jewellery: Yes or No?

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Christmas jewellery: Yes or No?

Do you wear themed Christmas jewels? By that, I mean- Christmas bauble earrings or a Christmas tree brooch. Anything that is shaped into a Christmas theme. So Christmas trees, baubles, snowmen, Father Christmas and bell jewellery are worn during this festive season. 

Or do you stick to your normal pieces? Maybe just add a little sparkle with your diamante jewellery?

So which is it? Yes ( I wear Christmas jewellery) or no (I just wear ordinary fashion jewellery) 

Me, I just love Christmas. so I don't need any excuse to bring out my collection of themed jewellery. I have now plenty of Christmas brooches to choose from. With a few Christmas necklaces to wear. As well as shaped sprout earrings or little baubles for my ears. Especially at Christmas parties and on Christmas day. 
Every year I add to my collection. This year, I added 5 brooches. A Christmas tree brooch, Father Christmas brooches and an angel brooch. Wearing them throughout December and finally packing them away on Boxing day for next year. 

Jewellery holds memories for me. Next year, when I unpack my Christmas jewellery. I will treasure the memories that each brooch, necklace, bracelet or earring holds. When I last wore them or a memorial Christmas event. Jewellery isn't just for show. it is a keepsake that is long lasting.

Christmas jewellery for this year.     

Just a few pictures of the Christmas jewellery we have on sale this year. 

Eeyore Christmas brooch by Disney
Eeyore Christmas brooch by Disney

Silver Christmas tree cameo necklace handmade
Silver Christmas tree necklace by Hemlock & Rose.

Bone china Scottish thistle brooch vintage
Bone China purple thistle vintage brooch for New Year celebrations

Green enamel reindeer brooch
Green reindeer stag brooch.

https://www.vintageandhandmadejewels.com/antique-silver-stretch-ring-of-diamante-18635-p.asp
Clear diamante stretch ring in antique silver

https://www.vintageandhandmadejewels.com/red-black-rhinestone-vintage-1950s-bracelet-22089-p.asp

Red & black rhinestone vintage bracelet attributed to Empire Made


Golden Christmas bauble earrings

So have a great Christmas and a happy New Year.

How to clean earrings

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How to clean all types of earrings

Cleaning earrings both piercing & non-pierced types.

Cleaning earrings are important, not only for "used" earrings, newly brought, of both types but on the ones that you have been using for many years and you currently own.


Because we sell many earrings that have been used before. This is our guide to how we clean them as hygienically as possible.

This guide can also be used to clean your own earrings also - as all vintage jewellery will pick up dirt and will benefit from a little tender loving care once in a while.
Our methods of cleaning means that pre-owned earrings will be cleaned several times before being catalogued for photographing and ready for sale.

  • The very first thing we do is remove any old pads or pillows from clip-on earrings and the backs frompierced earrings. Then we throw the old ones away. The only time we re-use backs/clutches is if they are of gold/silver/antique or are in a metal/style that is difficult to find a replacement. Once the earrings are cleaned we replace the backs with new ones to match the metal and earring design. Or replace the cleaned original backs (soak in antiseptic solution and use an ultrasonic jewellery machine) 
  • We sell on Cool Vintage & Beyond replacement backs/pillows and pads in all our unique earring collections.
  • First, identify what the earrings are made of before attempting to clean. This may mean using a jewellers' lens/loop and we also use a magnified craft mirror when cleaning them.
  • Using a strong antiseptic-disinfectant solution in water to clean the reverse of the earrings. Mix 1/4 part antiseptic such as Detol with 3/4 parts water. Then using a cloth or soft brush get into all the crevices of the metal finding on the back. If possible and if the material of the earring allows - we soak them in the solution for a short while. 
  • After cleaning with the disinfectant solution, use one of the antibacterial wipes that are now widely available. Clean again the backs and fronts (if the material allow). If you have greening or the creases are not clean - we use a toothpick and wrap the end around the wipes to get into the corners. It helps to use a magnifying glass to do this. Dry afterwards with kitchen towel thoroughly. Stubborn bits may need to be rubbed with a cotton bud soaked in the antiseptic solution.
  • Then each individual pair are cleaned again according to the material it is made of. E.G Plastic fronts, diamante, rhinestone, etc. 
  • Note - For hygiene purposes sometimes it is possible to remove the old hook findings or posts on earrings (for pierced ears only). It may de-value something that is antique/vintage, but they then can be worn again. As this is a personal choice we may leave this method to the new owner. Though some we change automatically and this can be seen clearly in the description.

Earrings are cleaned again using the methods below:
 
All metal

All metal earrings that are riveted together (not glued) are cleaned in our ultrasonic jewellery cleaner. Once dry - we will clean them using a brought specific cloth or polish according to material I.E silver/gold or base metal using the cloth specific for that type. Then buff to shine.
Greening to metal - the green colour can sometimes be seen on a piece of jewellery. This means that the metal has some deterioration. To remove use a vinegar solution and wash off afterwards and dry well (you may have to do this more than once). This has just removed the green colour - but it does still mean that the metal has deteriorated and will be in a state that it can break more easily. One permanent solution is to replace all metal parts - but we will leave that up to the new owner.

Rhinestones of glass

Using a small cotton bud and a "window cleaner" spray brought from a store (though you can use a solution of part water and white vinegar). Spray the bud and then blot onto kitchen paper until its just damp. Using the craft mirror we clean the rhinestones and all surrounding metal thoroughly. Then buff and dry with a dry cotton wool bud. Use a pair of tweezers to remove any cotton that may have got loose from the bud.


Rhinestones have foil backings. When this deteriorates, the stone becomes "yellow" or darkens. The yellow is the glue that has been used changing colour. The dark area is on unglued rhinestone and is the foil back deteriorating with the metal at the back showing through. Sometimes the "yellow" can be removed because it's not behind the rhinestone but dirt (usually nicotine staining)

But occasionally it is possible to restore the pieces by removing the rhinestones/diamante, cleaning and replacing them with new ones. This is something that is an art - finding the right size, shape, colour and era of the rhinestones to start can be difficult for some pieces. It may reduce the value of the piece overall - but if it is to make an unwearable piece wearable then well worth doing. It's not impossible but difficult (as is replacing a single stone that matches). So we leave this up to the new owner.   

Gemstones

Identify and clean as specific. We use a Gem-tester to correctly identify between the glass and a gemstone. For our gemstone cleaning guide, view this link.
 
Our methods of cleaning apply to all our jewellery An added bonus for the buyer is that if a piece is in a fragile state it will break whilst cleaning. Therefore we are not selling earrings that will possibly break at first wear. Using a magnified craft mirror also means that we can make sure prongs on prong set rhinestones are in place. We also tighten loose clip earring mechanisms.

Plastic types.

Clean plastic beads and earrings made of any type of plastic. Use a soap solution and the cotton bud method. We usually clean all over and then dry the earring. However with celluloid pieces (they can be damaged with using water) we clean with a barely damp bud and dry straight away. Celluloid should also be stored not in a sealed plastic bag, but with airflow allowed.
With some plastics, we apply a tiny amount of petroleum jelly to the final buff to give shine. Minor scratches can be rubbed with abrasive toothpaste, rinse the paste of carefully and then buffed to shine.  

Wood

After cleaning the metal clip mechanism or findings with the antiseptic disinfectant. Use a solution of brought "wood cleaner" from a store. Again using the cotton bud method clean thoroughly. Most wood jewellery has a varnish or clear enamel coating but this can get worn away over time. After cleaning and drying, we sometimes use a multi-surface wipe (Can be brought from a supermarket) to add shine. However, they are usually with a fragrance and can leave a residue. If the wood has no varnish and dull. Try rubbing damp coffee grains onto - it will bring back a rich brown colour and help get rid of any age markings. 

Paper Mache

Clean as for celluloid - as to not get water soaking into the earring if possible. Applying a coating of clear varnish will help to preserve the paper mache. Also, a coating of PVA glue instead will help to preserve.

Leather

Use brought leather wipes to clean and then buff with a dry cloth. Or leather cleaning solution and follow the instructions.

Bone and shell, including mother of pearl,

If water is used it will eventually dry bone and shell out. We use a small amount of vegetable/olive oil. It does not smell and can be used for cleaning bone and shell. Again using the cotton bud method, clean thoroughly. Leave the oil on for a short time to soak in as this benefits the bone/shell. We may do this several times until clean and the surface looks enriched. Buff dry with several cotton wool buds. then leave to air dry thoroughly before storage. Clean the metal part of a piece as already instructed above.

Using your earrings will require them to be cleaned. I hope the guide above is of value. Please leave a comment.

Sue. 

Why we closed Jewels & Finery UK

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Why we closed Jewels & Finery UK and opened another shop online.

Jewels & Finery UK

It was after 11 years of selling vintage jewellery and pre-owned jewellery on Jewels and Finery that we made the difficult decision to close our online store. (We were also known as vintage and handmade jewels). Last September, we noticed a rapid decline in sales and visits to the website. It just got worse and worse. Nothing we did seemed to do made any difference.

1980s vintage black enamel necklace


In January 2019, we noticed that our categories had multiple versions. In that our vintage brooches section had over 16 different versions of the same page. It was happening with all our main categories and even when we created new categories, it was also causing duplicates.

It wasn't the only problem that we had. The photographs on some items had just disappeared before Christmas. Leaving over 50 items without any pictures. Then it was noticed that our page speed had become so slow. To our horror, the other photographs had been converted from JPG to PNG. This makes a larger file and so slows a website. It meant that all the 1,500+ photographs would need to be either retaken or converted back to JPG. A huge undertaking. But the actual code on the website was also slowing it down and this was beyond our control. It would need major upgrading.

Unfortunately, these were not the only problems that we had. The blog attached to the website was in an HTTP formate - which shows up as unsecured. As a WordPress blog. It should have been in the https formate. But the company we were with did not seem to care. Had they given us a chance to upgrade we would have. But it meant that even if we took on another WordPress blog and swopped it - we couldn't use our website URL.


Now don't get me started on the sitemap. It was showing duplicate URLs, the blog as HTTPS!, wrong formatting and informing Google that it was changed weekly!. We paid another company to create a sitemap and uploaded it to Googles search console. Almost immediately it showed the number of URLs increased. It also seemed to update daily and be read by Google daily. With our own sitemap on the website. It hadn't changed or updated for months. No matter how many changes or submissions we did. I checked other sitemaps of other websites from the same company. The sitemaps were the same format.

There were a few other problems that kept occurring. Broken links to the newsletter. Which apparently took 3 weeks to sort. I am not sure if it then worked, as by this time I had had enough.

Yes, I repeatedly asked for it to be sorted out. But it was horrendous. From January to March I rang and was first told to get in touch with Google. Then eventually in March, it was put to the developers. we got an email 2 weeks after closing the store. Saying it was fixed!!!! The sitemap had apparently been fixed, but when I looked it had had just a couple of minor changes to priority - this took 3 weeks to do! The blog HTTP was still on there though. When I queried it I was told. that is how it will stay and no further changes were going to be made!


I had written on the forum that I was not happy and would be moving. Their reply was to give me an instant ban for life !!

Until a year ago. I would have recommended them. But they seemed to not know what they were doing. No communication and sudden moving of the facilities that we had signed up for. Analytics went - it was only available with a higher plan. I was paying over £70 a month as it was. You had to ask for everything back. Not very good practice for a company. They seem to start things. Like regular informative blog posts. Then it all stops. Instead of carrying on. Add a blog, then not maintain it. Start a "what do you want" forum post. Then not continue or communicate.  

Worse was that we couldn't transfer any of the links created over the last 11 years. With all the duplicates it had done untold damage. We could not be sure this was fixed properly either. We also did not know what else had been wrong, had we or the website company been penalized by Google with so much other clutter around it was impossible to tell?

Unfortunately, we could not leave a review for the website provider, as they do not publish the bad ones - only the good reviews. No website can have all good reviews. It is impossible.

So we started over again. Sometimes I feel is it worth it. But when I look at all the drawers full of beautiful jewellery. It spurs me on.

After looking around and searching, we decided on Shopify. Not totally perfect, but it has so much information available. Not just a few blog posts or pages. Many apps that you can use and shock - our sitemap is updating daily. It actually says "Daily" on it !!

https://coolvintageandbeyond.co.uk/

If you see any jewellery photographs that are around from J & F. Just leave us a message and if we still have it in stock. We will list it as a priority. No obligation. See Cool Vintage & Beyond.
Moan over and move forward. Back to work for me now.. See you soon.

PS. We will be publishing all the research we did and had on the old website very soon.      

Research on Jewellery marks and trademarks

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Research on jewellery marks| Trademarks | Jewelry Signatures | UK Signed Jewellery Information | Identification Guide | Signatures Of Designers
A to B 

 

Below is the research we have done in the UK and of international jewellery marks, signatures and trademarks. Looking at the information on the designer companies old and modern that made or still make designer costume jewelry in the UK, USA, US (America), France, West Germany, Italy, Hong Kong, Japan, China, Switzerland, Bohemia, New Zealand, Canada, Czechoslovakia, Africa, Thailand and Austria. We have included vintage fashion jewellery marks history, designer trademarks and patents as far as possible. Taking the stamps from the back of jewellery, boxes, cards and hangtag information available. This alphabetical list of costume jewellery signatures will be added to regularly.
We have moved this from our old website and have published it now on our longstanding blog. Unfortunately, the photographs are missing. So have a little patience whilst we locate and re-photograph many of the signatures, tags and cards. If a piece of jewellery is still available for sale we will include it. Payment is by Paypal transfer and we ship worldwide by signed and tracked shipments.


C - D | E - F | G - H | I - J | K - L | M - N | O - P | Q, R - S | T , U - V | X, Y - Z  |


Ace Fashions - 2003 - 2009. Chinese based company once based in London. Selling fashion, jewellery and footwear. 
ace fashions logo on card

Accessocraft - 1930 - 1998, US company with designer Theodore Steinman. The signature usually Accessocraft in a script or capital lettering.

Accessorize - 1970 - today. Started out as a one-man stall at Portobello Market in London. Now sold in the stores called Monsoon.
Accessorize trademark

A * D - Andreas Daub - This company started about 1880 and continues today. Founded by Andreas Daub in Germany, this goldsmith strived to produce high-quality jewellery. Not only in gold and silver but other non-precious metals. They produce 2 lines per year. So lots of jewellery out there to collect. Signed A * S on a tag or on the pieces. 

Agatha- 1974 to today. French company who opened their first boutique in Paris in 1976 and then went on to have over 200 boutiques in 23 countries. Famous for selling good quality jewellery. Their Scottie Dog design became so popular that they now have it on their logo.

Ainette - see Hollywood jewellery (UK company)on this blog.

AJC - America Jewelry Chain Co. They were in production from the late 1920s up to the late 1990s (1997). Quality jewellery with whimsical figural produced in the 1980s to 1990s and in limited editions make AJC items very collectable.

Alchemy Carta- see an extended article on this Gothic style company.
 Alchemy carta stamp on jewellery alchemy metal wear logo brand

Allen J J - Principle designer for the firm W & J Randell (Victorian)

Allen Kate - One of the Arts and Crafts designers in the first part of the twentieth century.

Allison Reed  - 1970s to today, although a merger of two companies in the seventies already well established. This was the Walter E Haywood company and the A & Z Chain company. Based in Providence, USA and still selling gold, silver and costume jewellery today.

Allusions -  Fashion jewellery once sold in BHS. Both companies no longer around.
allusions jewellery trademark signature

Am Lee-US company 1946 - ?, Produced sterling silver jewellery.

Angell Joseph - Victorian silversmith at the 10 Strand, London. Showed his jewellery at the 1862 exhibition.

Anise Et Moi - a brand sold at the Matalan store.

Art - 1955 - 1970s, The US company often reflected classical styles.

Ashbee Charles Rober - Born 1863 to 1942. Important for the Art Nouveau period, inspired Celtic and continental Art Nouveau designs. Also developed jewellery for Liberty & Co. Founded the Guild and School of Handicraft in 1888. Which was not open for long but now famous for its furniture, metalwork of course it's jewellery. His jewellery had peacocks, flowers, ships and included necklaces, buttons, cloak clasps, brooches - embellished with semi-precious stones.

Asprey & Co-Founded in 1781 in Surrey, UK and continues today. They moved to Bond Street, London in 1847. Flourishing in the nineteenth century and received two Royal Warrants and a gold medal at the Great Exhibition from Queen Victoria. Upmarket luxury goods and fine jewellery. Clients include royalty, music and stage stars.

Aston T & Sons - Victorian jewellers based in Birmingham. Exhibited at the 1862 Exhibition.

Attenborough Richard - Victorian craftsman based in Oxford Street, London. Exhibited in 1851 & 1862.

Attwood & Sawyer (A & S) - Produced quality imitation jewellery from 1957 to today. A UK company started in Porthcawl, Wales. Started by Mr Horace Atwood and with his partner Mr Sawyer, they produced jewellery including copies of the "Duchess of Windsor" jewellery. They distributed in stores across the UK, Europe and worldwide. Now very collectable vintage. The company has been brought by the Buckley jewellery Ltd, that are now reproducing the famous A & S designs.

Ascot- Unknown, possibly to do with Ascot racecourse souvenirs. Men's cufflinks, the 1950s signed in script Ascot

Askew - Askew of London seemed to be in production through the eighties to the early nineties. Their jewellery was often gold plated with a mix of statement necklaces, earrings, bracelets and brooches. Signed Askew of London. Famous owners of vintage pieces to date is Keira Knightley who was spotted wearing a bracelet. Prices are rising for these named pieces.

Aurora - Of London. They currently have a website online, but can not see any company information. Please note there are several companies with a similar name. 
aurora jewellery signature

Autui- New Zealand jewellery company. Found on a leather flower brooch. Unknown and sorry no info found. Probably about 2008 dated piece.

Austrian Jewelry produced in Austria. Stamped on the reverse "Austria" or if you are lucky to find the original hangtag still attached. Above average in quality and produced in vast quantities in the 20th century for import to other countries. Other famous names to look out for from Austria are Daniel Swarovski, Michaela Frey and FREYWILLIE 

austrian stamp with copyright mark  austrian jewelry set


  Avon- This US Company started around the 1880s. A door to door bookseller hit on the idea to also sell fragrances - and the company was in business. First called The California Perfume company. In 1939 the company became Avon Products. In 1965 the company produced its first Avon jewellery. So this is when Avon started to make jewellery. They were pieces that also had solid perfume compartments. The first ones were - bow-shaped brooch/pendant, cameo pin, solid perfume locket, owl, leaf. As well as rings, tie tack (Bue Blaze), pillbox and wishing charm necklace. For those interested - we have a collection of Avon's perfume brooches in our shop. 
Many other pieces followed and they still produce jewellery today. Famous designers for Avon have been: Kenneth J Lane, Elizabeth Taylor, Coreen Simpson, Jose Barrera, Celia Feraud, Shaill Jhaveri with many collections including the collectable Egyptian Revival. Signature AVON with or without the ©. The initials some times seen are not the designer but an internal code used for the company who manufactured the piece. Eg SH, NR, BW, SP, WN, MR, etc.

 avon in silver hallmark Avon in block capitals and copyright Avon again with copyright
Avon stamp mark avon logo on white box sleeve

A & Z Chain Company- 1905 - its amalgamation in about the mid-1970s into the Allison Reed company. Initially producing fine and plated (or gold filled as the American way of reference this) jewellery including chains. Based in the USA.

B David - 1945 - 1993, US company who produced some very pretty fake jewellery. Signed B David without the copyright symbol. 

Baker Oliver - (1859 - 1939) Produced fine silver buckle designs in hammered silver with strong entrelac or curled motif patterns. Usually embellished with semi-precious stones of a cabochon. He worked for Liberty.

Balleny John- Victorian of Birmingham. Showed brooches in the 1862 exhibition. 

Barcs - an Australian company that produced jewellery at least 1980s up to the present day, maybe earlier as unknown? Brooches, necklaces and clip-on earrings are still available. Signed BARCS in capitals with usually a design number. Possible link with Monet, as a brooch was almost identical except colours to a Monet piece.

Barclay - 1945 - 1957, US company who signed their jewellery "Barclay" ** not to be confused with McClelland Barclay pieces as they are separate companies.


Barclay McClelland- 1935 - 1943, a famous graphic designer who was unfortunately killed in World War Two. The Rice- Weiner company produced his pieces, because of the beauty and his tragic early death. His jewellery now commands high prices.

Beau/Beaucraft- the late 1940s to 2004. Produced high-class sterling silver jewellery based in the US. On the par with Coro for collectability.

Beau Jewels - 1950s - 1970s, US company. Little known about them but thought Bowman Foster Inc produced this line. Many of their lines had the earrings signed only and the brooches unsigned. 

Ben Reig - 1950s - 1970s, an early designer was Omar Kiam. Quite rare to find their jewellery.

Bengal Jacob - 1873 - present, Idar Oberstein, Germany. Famous for their Art Deco jewellery. Produced prolifically many different pieces. Exported worldwide including Woolworths in the UK. Galilaith and chrome were used. Unsigned. The company was closed during World War Two, one of the sons never returned as reported missing. Flourished in the 1950s and 1960s. Not marked jewellery maybe a sticker. Most went wholesale to a retailer who would have sold it under their own name.          
 
Berebi Edgar - New York company. The Berberi company started to produce jewellery in the early 1980s, with epoxy marbled earrings being their most produced as well as necklaces, bracelets and brooches. In the 2000s, this company changed direction completely and stopped producing jewellery and now make high-end homeware and accessories such as mirrors, trinket boxes, picture frames and much more. The signature includes engraved ©Berberi with the accents over the e's. Their early jewellery is unmarked and they used cards and paper stickers. Collectable earrings and other jewellery.
 
BJ - Unknown manufacturer  - would suggest imported from China during the eighties and nineties. Seemed to have produced a wide range of jewellery from the whimsical, animal, cameo and floral. In brooches and necklaces.

BillyBoy- Born in 1960 in Vienna and founded Surreal Couture and then Surreal Bijoux on the Rue De La Paix, Paris. BillyBoy created surreal jewellery for Thierry Mugler and Charles Jourdan. Collects haute couture dresses and Barbie dolls, writing a book in the late 1980s.

Boden Niki - 1990s - today, a German designer who is known for her fabulous mythical beasts, unusual designs and brilliant colours in necklaces, brooches, earrings and bracelets amongst many other decorative goods.

Bogoff- A husband (Henry Bogoff) and wife team that founded "Jewels by Bogoff" in Chicago. Produced high-quality fake jewellery in the 1940s and 1950s. Then 1946 to 1960s when the company closed after Henry's death. All the rhinestones were glued into place by hand. Necklaces, earrings, bracelets and brooches including matching jewellery sets were produced by them. Also pendant necklaces, imitation pearl necklaces and earring wraps. Signed © BOGOFF.

Boucher - 1937 - 1971, Marcel Boucher founded the US company. Jewellery marked Boucher or MB with the Phrygian cap. Marcel died in 1965, his wife Sandra ran the company after.

Brev - another name for patent or the ownership/copyright in Italian. Short for Brevetto. 
brev stamp with pat on jewellery

Brown A R - English pewter company that is based still in the UK. AR Brown produce pewter pins sculptured in animal and bird forms. Very detailed jewellery pins that are signed on the reverse. Great little collectables.
a r brown signature a r brown jewellery

Brown T S - Associated with A R Brown in that this company was started by his son. Also producing fine pewter pins but aimed at the country sportsman. Includes fishing, hunting and sports pins. Also, produce keyrings and pewter sculptures. Started in 1986 and uses high-quality English pewter.

BSK - US, New York company in production from 1948 to 1983 approximately. Produced good quality jewellery which was originally sold in Woolworths and other department stores. Rising in price due to their enamel work which was very good. Also produced a range for the film "My Fair Lady" which are now very sought after. Signed BSK with the © symbol. The My Fair Lady pieces are signed as such as well as the designer. BSK stands for Benny Steinberg, Slovitt, Kaslo who were the founders of the company.
bsk signature mark

Butler & Wilson - 1960s to today. It was in the sixties that the two men met in London. Simon Wilson born in Glasgow had previously trained as a hairdresser, he had been told of another man who looked just like his twin! Meeting Nicky Butler the similarities were in looks, both had blond long hair and both skinny. But their personalities were very different. The two teamed up and started to sell antique and vintage pieces from a market stall along the Portobello road. Specializing in Art Deco and Art Nouveau pieces. Soon in the late sixties, they were using parts of jewellery that were both antique and vintage in their own designs.

In 1972 they moved to their first shop in Fulham Road in London and continued to design their own range of jewellery. The eighties with the fashion for large statement pieces allowed Wilson and Butler to expand further. A large 6-foot billboard of Catherine Deneuve, displayed outside their shop, set the trend for other celebrates to appear being paid with jewellery from the designers. Amongst the celebrates that wear Butler and Wilson are Kate Moss, Sharon Stone, Dame Edna Everage, Jerry Hall and Faye Dunaway. Princess Diana was also a big fan, often dropping into the shop with a single bodyguard to make her choice.

In the mid-eighties, Simon Wilson took over the business when Nicky Butler went to America. They found that they wanted different directions. Nicky wanted to expand and live in the US, whereas Simon wanted to stay in London. So the famous team parted. Nicky now designs silver and gemstone items, very distinctive and very recognizable with its influences taken from antique museum collections and Indian jewellery. He lasciviously uses multiple and oversized stones. Like Simon, Nicky has sold through television shopping channels (HSN) and still retains a consultancy role in the Wilson and Butler Company to this day.

The recession in the nineties hit Wilson and Butler hard, forced to close their shop in Glasgow brought home the importance of diversification within a business. So the nineties saw the company add a unique range of bags, shoes and accessories and in the early part of this century, they added a collection of jewellery made from semi-precious stones. Further expansion in 1994 has seen Butler and Wilson selling their distinctive glitzy jewellery and their flamboyant accessories on the shopping channel QVC. In 2007 the men's range was introduced and recently beautiful vintage inspired clothing. Along with selling their items on QVC, Wilson and Butler have a website and three shops. Two in London at Chelsea and Mayfair with a third in Monte Carlo.

Their limited production of items allows the jewellery and other products to be potentially very collectable. Their early ranges from the seventies and eighties are sought by many collectors worldwide.

Two books have been produced:

Rough Diamonds The Butler and Wilson Collection in April 1994 by Vivienne Becker.

Now out of print but copies are still available in second-hand book shops and on the Internet.

Butler and Wilson 40 Years published July 2009 by Simon Wilson and Madeline Marsh. A special edition with a jewel-encrusted cover is also available. Produced to celebrate 40 years in business; each book donates a percentage to Breast Cancer Care. Why because their shop in Fulham road was next to one of the largest cancer units. Women who had been diagnosed or attending for treatment would drop into the shop and buy a piece of jewellery to cheer themselves up.

You may also be lucky to source one of their catalogue produced over the years on the Internet, but they now command high prices.

Butler and Wilson are marked B & W.

Simon Wilson is a workaholic, enjoying a simple life in London. He still loves antique markets and has never attended a jewellery course in his life.

Butler & Wilson is very collectable and now commands high prices for many ranges. 

C - D | E - F | G - H | I - J | K - L | M - N | O - P | Q, R - S | T , U - V | X, Y - Z  |

C and D research on jewellery signatures

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Research on Jewellery marks/signatures C to D

Part of our jewellery marks in alphabetical order. Are you curious about the stamps on the back of your costume jewellery? Then we have a whole load of information. Including where possible the actual photo of the mark or trademark.


C - Often seen a C in a circle - This just means copyright. It may have other stamps with it or it may be on its own. If it is on its own, it is not very good for identifying who made the piece. However, this mark was used after 1955, when the need for copyrighting came into force.
Copyright C mark on this jewelry

Cadoro. 1954 - 1987, US company, based in Manhattan. The Hollywood Stars actors and friends Steve Stuart Brody and Dan Steneskieu founded the company. Following the death of Dan in the 70s (Unknown actual date). The company ceased production in the 70s. But the jewellery and trinkets were available until the 1980s until Steve Brody retired. Good quality, produced in small limited editions and now hard to find. They used unusual materials as well as traditional - chenille, gold metal, rhinestone, enamel and plastic. Renowned for making filigree bra and breastplates also. So that women could then wear see-through tops over the top of them.
Signed CADORO with or without the copyright symbol.

Camco - see Cathedral Art Metal Company below for more information.
camco jewellery camco signature mark

Capri Jewelry Inc - This company was based at 392, 5Th Avenue, New York, USA. They were in production from (1949?) 1952 until about 1977. But remained on the legal file until the early 1990s. One source sites that the owner was a Sol Smith. The jewellery company called DelNicola was incorporated into the Capri company around 1973. Underrated beautiful and well made. However, this company did not make their own jewellery. They purchased from other companies (Florenza and other jewellery businesses) They introduced the usual jewellery pieces: necklaces, bracelets, earrings and brooches from rhinestones, mock pearls and art glass. Jewellery advertisements can be found on the Internet. Signed Capri and ©Capri in block capitals (after 1955).

Cardin Pierre 1950s - today. Italian born designer who lives and works in France. Renowned for his space age and Avant Garde designs. Originally working with Elsa Schiparelli and then head of Christian Dior. Founding his own empire in 1950s, he went on to design not only fake jewelry but couture clothing, accessories, perfume, bags, cars and he purchased Maxim's restaurant chain in 1981. Preferring geometric shapes and motifs and showing such an elegance in design. Pierre Cardin also holds theatre performances for show casing his creations. as well as music festivals. In 1988, Pierre Cardin sold licences for his brand. Although this brought him a lot of money. It watered down his identity and futuristic style. His name was used on products, not associated with him. Logo is a curved P signature. For Pierre Cardin jewellery and accessories to buy. 
pierre cardin jewellery

Carnegie Hattie - 1939 - 1970s, US company owned by Hattie Carnegie (1886 - 1956) who was Austrian and emigrated to the US, when young. Produced cocktail jewelry to compliment her dresses. Signed Hattie Carnegie, Carnegie or HC or HAC in a diamond shape plaque. Initially expensive pieces and remain so today. Very collectible and sought after as did not copy other manufacturers.

Carolee - 1972 - present. Started by Carol Friedlander in the US, first as a kitchen table project that escalated into the company it is today. Produced jewelry that resembles the Duchess of Windsor's jewelry. Available in up market departments stores in many countries and now available online. Just celebrated their 40th anniversary. The Brook Brother Group, acquired Carolee in 2001. In 2017 it launched DECONIC. Based in Brooklyn. Selling contemporary and other luxury brands.

Castlecliff - 1918 - 1977. Clifford Furst and Joseph Bobley launced the company whilst working for other other. First signed their jewelry in 1941, when they first launched their brand. Their main designer was William Markle. Later Larry Vrba .A  New York based US company who produced high quality costume and sterling silver jewelry.
They uesed signatures such as "Castlemark" 1957, "Cassandra" after 1957, with or without the copyright. Also "Anne Klein for Castlecliffe" in 1977. The original company ceased in 1977. However in 1980s, they re-opened with Lucien Piccard as the head. The mark now is Castlecliffe Jewelry Div of Lucien Piccard.
Castlecliff jewellery

Cathedral Art Metal Company (Camco)  - US jewelry company in production between 1920s to the 1930s. They registered their trademark in January 1930s. Remained producing tie tack pins, brooches, necklaces until the late 2000s. Unsure at this point whether they are still in production. The company last renewed the trademark on the 13th January 2010 - it is up for renewal soon. So watch this space! Signed their pieces CAMCO.
camco signature stamp

Caviness Alice - 1945 - 2000 approximately. US, New York company that used the Alice Caviness signature with and without the copyright symbol after 1955, so not useful in dating with. They also like many had pieces produced that were unsigned including parure sets that would only have the one piece stamped. . Some were also made in W Germany, but these were signed W Germany and Alice Caviness.They were of silver or gold plated silver. Catalogue images can be found on the web, that will help with identification and age. This company sold at the higher end of the jewellery market.

Celebrity - New York, US based jewelry company. Estimated to have operated between 1950s to 1970s but little is known about them. High quality, hand set rhinestone in gold, silver or rhodium plate and a bit unusual was their speciality. Along side versatility. Sold at home parties and often included an extra earring - just in case of loss or to wear on a chain. Versatile in use, many had a double clasp on necklaces to convert into chokers or into a bracelet. It made them very attractive to buy. Stamped jewelry with the Celebrity mark or unsigned with a paper hang tag.
celebrity stamp signature

Chanel - 1914 - 1939, 1949 - present. French Coco Chanel designed her couture precious, and costume lines. Sold under the brand "House of Chanel" Some of her jewelry is also dated as well as signed. Famous for her high end bold, big and highly decorative pieces. Coco was very important in jewelry history as she revolutionised the non precious metal jewelry industry. Until the 1920s. Most jewellery was expensive often made of gold and silver. The people who did venture to wear costume jewelry were looked upon as poor. She however mixed real with costume. Famously wearing layers of strings of faux pearl necklaces. Designs include the Maltese Cross and in the 1990s real jewelry was first introduced into the Chanel collection. Coco died in 1971, but her legacy lives on today.

Cherry Chau - 1992 - ?2011. French company and designer born in Hong Kong, studied in London. Hair accessories and costume jewelry. Not to be confused with the bridal make up artist of the same name.

Ciner - 1892 - present, Founded by Emmanuel Ciner in 1892 and started out producing fine jewellery in precious metal with gemstone. This NY company then started to make fake jewelry that looked like real pieces in 1931. Consequently it produced high end pieces. Famous for using small sparkling stones and beautiful enamels. As well as 18 ct plated gold, Swarovski crystal and Japan faux pearls Marked Ciner after 1945, with or without the copyright sign.but previously unsigned. Under Cinerny online today. Famous for being 100% made in America.

ciner signature mark Ciner sappharine clip earrings

Ciro Pearls - Ciro Pearls started producing jewellery in 1917 in the UK. Until 1920 it sold all their range by mail order. In 1920 the company opened its first retail store. They also continued to sell by mail order and also from large department stores. By 1928 they not only sold imitation pearls, diamond, emerald, sapphire and ruby jewellery, but also white zircon, cultured pearls, marcasite, precious stones and gold jewellery. Later platinum was introduced.

At Ciro Pearls height the company had stores and outlets across the world. But as with most old jewellery companies - the mass import of imitation jewellery, in the 1970s and the 1980s, from Hong Kong and other Eastern countries with the following recession. They saw a downturn of profit and in November 1994 the company went into receivership. The Ciro name and company was brought by a London Businessman and now his family-run business continues with the Ciro name. The Ciro jewellery company can still be found online - but does not appear to have any updates since 2018?

Ciro Pearls advertised with pride that their faux pearl and diamante items were difficult to tell from real pearls and diamonds. They produced necklaces, bracelets, brooches, earrings, dress and double clips, rings, badge brooches of regiments, crown jewels reproduction and much more.

Vintage Ciro Pearls is usually marked Ciro or CP. However, there will always be some of their jewellery that is not marked - as with all companies. Also, some Ciro Pearls jewellery is marked twice with Ciro and the company who made it. Ciro adverts. Ciro Pearl jewellery and boxes to buy.

ciro pearls box logo black Ciro Pearls famous necklace  Ciro Pearls cameo jewellery set
Big bold Ciro jewellery

C J - Unknown signature. On many Scottish styled and inspired jewellery. Either marked just C J or C J Scotland. Note there appear to be multiple companies using CJ or C & J. So care should be taken when identifying your piece.

Claiborne Liz - Fashion designer Belgium/American 1929 - 2007. Established her company in the 1980s. Sold clothing, accessories and jewellery. Signed LC, and/or on a signature card.
Claire's Stores Inc - 1974 to present, worldwide international company for a young fashionable teenager or young adult jewellery and accessories. Aimed at children from 3 to young women of 27. Signature tag with just Claire's on denotes their items. In Jan 2012 they had 3017 stores worldwide. They also have ear piercing facilities. The other brand the company uses is Icing in North America.
Liz Clairbourne signatureon back of jewelry

Claire's - Claire's Accessories. 1974 - still in business. Aimed at young women, teenagers and children (3 to 18). They offer fun and affordable jewellery across the world. Also, have another brand Icing - see information in alphabetical order. We have plenty of Claire's accessories available in stock in our collections.

Claire's tag on necklaceClaire's trademark Claire's trademark on packet 

Coro company started in 1901 in the USA. It closed in the US in 1979 and in Canada in 1998. One of the most successful fake jewelry makers of the twentieth century. Produced with sterling silver during World War Two due to the lack of metal available. Also used many other names including Corocraft, Coro-Craft, Vendome and Jewelcraft.
Up to 1955 they patented their designs after they copyrighted them. Some of their jewelry is signed and some not. Had factories in the US and also Sussex, UK.
Coro - US jewelry company that had a factory in Sussex, the UK from 1949. So although not English they did produce jewellery here in the Uk and you can find some pieces signed as such. In production from 1901 to 1979. The factory was taken over by Swarovski in the late 1970s or early 1980s. The jewellery is both signed and unsigned. Coro also produced many other pieces under various names including Corocraft, Jewelcraft and their high end pieces Vendome.
Corocraft - see signatures used by Coro, Jewelcraft, Corocraft, Vendome in alphabetical order.
corocraft signature mark Corocraft trademark on packet

Countess Fine Bone China - produced by Harleigh China Gift Ware Ltd of Amison Street, Longton, Stoke On Trent. At least 1971 to closed in 1988. 1971 is the earliest established date but may have started a lot sooner. Bone china pendants, plaques and giftware produced. See bone china jewellery.

Coventry Sarah. Started in 1949 by the C H Stuart company. Selling at fashion and home parties, with department stores in the late eighties to early nineties. In the 1960s the company expanded and began home selling in England, Scotland, Canada, Belgium and Australia. Reaching its peak in the 1980s the company went into decline and stopped trading in the mid-nineties. However, had a brief revival in 2003 in the US to 2008. Some of its jewellery for the UK was actually made here in the UK. You will find boxes stating this little known fact. See Emmons jewelry also.
A huge amount of jewelry and accessories can be found today still - Sarah Coventry brooches, necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, men's jewelry, children's jewelry, scarves and key rings.

Each collection was advertised in brochures which helps dating. Several books have also been written which are also invaluable for the name of each piece and matching items. Advertisements in magazines can be found. 

Jewelry signed Sarah Coventry or an abbreviation: S C, Sarah Cov, Also marked targeted country on some jewelry i.e GB, UK and Canada. It is known that "Coventry" and "Sarah Coventry" was used from 1949, The mark "SC" was used from 1950. "Sarah " and "Sarah Cov" from 1951 and 1953 respectively. The mark SAC may not be from this company as there is no documented evidence. We have some old trade magazines that are available for you to browse on our blog posts. These may help with identification.
sarah coventry signature with copyright Sarah Cove signature sarah coventry on box lid trademark

Czechoslavakia - signed on some jewelry pieces. The country became Czechoslovakia as previous Bohemia. The country came into being after the first World War in late October 1918. So jewelry signed Czechoslovakia is dated from 1918. Care need to be taken when distinguishing Czechoslovakian jewelry, some are marked and some are not. The findings are quite distinctive. But take care that it is genuine. They are often made with good quality glass beads and garnets. However most Czech jewelry will be dated between the First World War and the second. Because in WW2, the Germans took over and most of the jewelry makers were in Jewish communities. Never recovering it's early years of brilliance.

Danecraft - 1934 - present, Providence, Rhode Island, US company. The founder was of Italian heritage (Victor Primavera). Produced sterling silver and fake jewelry.

Daub Andreas - 1875 to present. German company producing high quality plated and fine jewelry. Signature is A * D.

Dawson Edith - Created beautiful enamelled jewellery. Wife of Montague Fordham. Arts & Crafts designer of birds and floral delights.

Dawson Nelson - (1859 - 1942) Founded the Artificer's Guild in 1901 in London's Chiswick district. Taken over 2 years later by Montague Fordham. Arts & Crafts era.

DeLizza & Elter (D & E) - 1947 - 1990s, Brooklyn, US company sold worldwide. Made jewelry also for other companies including Weiss, Kramer, Hobe, Eisenberg, Sarah Coventry and hundreds of others. Also sold under the name "Juliana". Glitzy jewels produced over a long period of time with most unsigned but have features that pronounce them as D & E.

DeNicola - 1957 - 1973, New York, US company. Founded by Jerry De Nichola in the 1950s. Collectible for their Zodiac pieces and interesting unusual designs including the angel and George & Dragon design. In 1962 they produced a series of sea life inspired pieces called "Real Life" followed in 1964 by the "Young American" series. Became part of Capri before closing down in 1973.

Denton China English china manufacturers originally based in Stoke on Trent where most of the UK potteries started. Now based in Berkshire. Produced a range of china flower jewellery. Brooches and earring, matching sets can be found. Bone china jewellery to buy.

Demario Robert - 1945 - 1965, NY USA company.

Destiny - UK company selling silver jewellery.

Destiny trademark on card

De Rosa - 1934 - 1970, Ralph De Rosa Company of New York, USA. Sterling silver used during World War Two, like most US companies and produced fake jewelry.

Diamonds and Pearls - Small UK stores selling costume pieces. Available briefly in the mid-2000s. They may be no longer trading.
Diamonds and pearls trademark on card

Dior Christian - 1948 - present. French company. Fashion, accessories, beauty, perfume and jewelry production. Christian Dior jewelry was produced from 1948 in Germany. Marked "Christian Dior" produced by Mitchel Maer (Between 1952 and 1953) An American designer working in England and Chr Dior Germany with a date by Henkel & Grosse from 1955 to today.

DKYN - 1984 - present. Donna Karan, New York, USA company. Clothing, perfume accessories, jewelry and watches. Jewelry that you can't miss, it seems to have its name written all over it!

Dodds - 1952 - 1997. New Jersey, USA. Sold jewellery kits as well as jewelry. Can also have the following signatures due to the location: West 31 street, 11 w 30 st inc, 30 w st inc, w 30 st inc and also Doddz. Famous for their cat pins.  

D'Orlan - 1957 - present, a Canadian company. Founder Maurice Bradden, a protege of Marcel Boucher and first designed for the Avon, Belleville company. He established a factory in Canada in 1957. Manufacturer for Lancel and Nina Ricci jewelry. Famous for using Austrian crystal and producing good quality pieces.
Du Jay - 1934 - 1972, Many pieces were unsigned. High gloss enamel, pave, and bead detail is typical of the company who were originally fine jewelry makers.
D'orlan signature mark

DQCZ - Diamonique brand from the TV channel QVC. Cubic Zirconia synthetic stones are quality cut to resemble real diamonds.

Duke Elizabeth sold by the chain store Argos in the UK. Started around 1980 and named after the director's wife. Now changing to another brand "Jewellery and Watches" Good quality pieces that many have stood the test of time. Unsigned but can still be found in their original signed boxes.
Elizabeth Duke logo

A - B |  



E and F collecting jewellery information

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E and F Collecting jewellery information  

Part of our alphabetically arrange jewellery trademarks, logo's on boxes and cards, signature and marks on the back of jewellery or on tags. This is from E to F. All the photographs of the marks are exclusive to us. We have at some point sourced and owned the jewellery itself. These jewellery trademarks photographs shown are copyrighted and belong to us exclusively. 

A- B | C - D | G - H | I - J | K - L | M - N | O - P | Q, R - S | T, U - V | X, Y - Z  | 


Emmons See Sarah Coventry. Emmons started in 1949 in the US by the same company C H Stuart Co. The jewellery was most of the times the same but marked differently. Sarah Coventry name became the mainline selling at home parties. Marked signature Emmons. See Sarah Coventry information for more info.

Empire Made - Mark used by British companies in Hong Kong in the fifties and sixties under the Empire flag. G & Co? mark on a bracelet unknown with Empire made marking. 

Empire - Not to confuse with Empire Made - see above. Empire (US company) writes the signature in a script. This is usually written on boxes with unsigned jewellery. It is higher end pieces probably by Juliana - 70s and distributed from the NYC & Providence areas) 

Exquisite -This was one of the ranges produced by Watson Group Ltd. Originally started by W A P Watson (Walter Archibald Parker) a gilt chain maker in the late Victorian period to the early twentieth century. He sold gilt chains in the Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham. In 1914 WAP Watson went off to WW1 and sold his business to Augustus Power and Clarence Flint. They kept the founder's name and continued to produce costume and a small range of silver only stopping to assist in war work as necessary for both WW1 (and WW2). It was possible that WAP Watson intended to return but he was injured and invalid out of the Royal Warwick Regiment in 1923. 

With just 6 people, the family and friends orientated company produced imitation jewellery and also a range of souvenirs and collectables. With the buildings in the Jewellery Quarter becoming to small. In 1954, they moved to Solihull, just along Lode Lane down onto a 3-acre site in Vulcan Lane.

In 1954 the company introduced "Exquisite Company" and instead of producing jewellery as a wholesaler as previous, W A P Watson's now started to produce their own named jewellery (and souvenirs) direct to the retailers. 
They continued producing imitation jewellery and souvenirs until the 1970s, where the influx of cheap jewellery from Hong Kong and other Asian areas made it difficult to continue. Many of the UK and worldwide jewellers were forced to close their doors in this period.

They continued until 2007 when they sold their range of collectables called Tudor Mint to the Xystos Group.

W.A.P. Watson was also responsible for Mirella, which was named after an employer in the 1950s and Myths and Magic fantasy collectables. 

Exquisite jewellery is unsigned pre-1955-ish. I do know for definite that up to 1953 - no jewellery was signed. Following that some were just on a padded card or un-padded card/boxed and unsigned and some pieces were signed. Particularly the necklaces were not always signed. One trademark used by the company is the small bow tag on necklaces and bracelets.

The range is huge, floral and leaves were produced in many different finishes. Much hand-painted enamel such as the Birthday Series. Souvenirs such as the Luck White Heather Scottish range of brooches, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, scarf clips and rings. 

Novelty and souvenir such as the Royal celebrations. Butterfly wing jewellery (well they were in the Jewellery Quarter when this technique was first invented there) faux semi precious stone jewellery, the list is endless as at their highest peak, they produced 20,000 pieces   

Early pieces can be identified by the type of mouldings, fastenings being riveted and signature. Also quality - a MOP and AB garland, brooches were produced over a long period but the earlier brooches are of a much thicker MOP.

We have undertaken continuous research into the Exquisite and Mirella range. We are responsible for much of the information available on the Internet as before many thought the jewellery by WAP Watson had been produced in the 1950s and 1960s.  

Fable - Mostly pewter style fantasy and magical inspired jewellery in fantasy or nerd designs eg dragons, wizards, planets. Signed on the back usually. Dates to the 1980s to 1990s. Now very collectible.

Fisher Alexander (1864 - 1936) Internationally famous enameller of the Arts & Crafts period.

Fordham Montague - Took over the Artificer's Guild and director of The Birmingham Guild of Handicrafts. Husband of Edith Dawson. Arts & Crafts designer.

Frey Michaela - Vienna enamel artist founded her company in 1951 in Austria. She made beautiful enamelled jewelry. Brooches, bracelets, bangles, earrings, etc. The international company is now under the ownership of Friedrich Willie, a partner in 1972 who took over sole ownership in 1992. In 2002 the company became known as FREYWILLIE.
When Michaela died in 1980. The company continued with the artist Simone Grunberger. She along with her team continued to use the fire enamel technique to create a line of jewelry seen today. Since 1995, they have continued to open shops across the globe  
The company is known in the international airport stores as well as shops world wide and selective stores. Michaela Frey's early made enamel jewelry is highly sought after. Worth collecting as this fine enamel technique is excellent and prices will rise in the future.

Florenza - This New york company started out in 1940 to 1981 and they trademarked some of their items from 1956. Originally they made a living by selling their jewelry wholesale and did not advertise it themselves. Florenza had only one designer - Dan Kassof. Not all of their jewelry is marked and some was sold under other companies such as Capri and Coro to name just two. Well made and often plated with 24 ct gold.

Folly Kirks - from 1980s to 1st November 2014. Sold beautiful whimsical jewelry. US based company with fairy dust!

Fisher Alexander (1864 - 1936) Internationally famous enameller of the Arts & Crafts period. 

Fordham Montague - Took over the Artificer's Guild and director of The Birmingham Guild of Handicrafts. Husband of Edith Dawson. Arts & Crafts designer.
Eissenberg - 1914 - today. Started out as Eissenberg & Sons selling clothes and perfume. Jonas Eissenberg was Austrian but had emigrated to the US in 1885. However they expanded and in the 1930s they started to produce jewelry. First the brooch were made to compliment their clothing range. They used rhinestone that were Swarovski and Austrian crystals. That gave a brilliant depth to their shine. Soon their jewelry was so popular that Eissenberg started to produce more under the label Eissenberg Jewelry Inc. In 1958, they stopped their clothing range to concentrate on the jewelry side.
Artists such as Picasso, Caldar and Miro designed some of the enamel pieces.  
Signatures include Eissenberg Original ( 1938 - 1942) Eissenberg Original Sterling (1943 - 1944) Eissenberg Sterling (1944 - 1948) E (1940s - 1950s) Eissenberg Ice - i block capital letters ( 1949 - 1958) Eissenberg Ice - in script (1970s) Eissenberg Classics - to today. Many pieces including the early ones are not signed. Also the marks overlap. So dating and identifying can be a problem.
High end jewelry much sought after and of high value.

I and J jewellery marks

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I and J Jewelry Marks


Signed jewellery identification continuing alphabetically. This is our I to J designer section. All the photos are our own. Taken from the jewellery we have owned. This unique page contains both old and modern jewellery information on companies still trading and those that are not.  

A- B | C - D | E - F | G - H | K - L | M - N | O - P | Q, R - S | T, U - V | X, Y - Z 

Icing - see Claire's Stores Inc. N American store line for room decorations, cosmetics, jewellery and accessories.

IFS - relatively unknown but seem to sell pewter tie tack pins and kitchenware in pewter. Probably Italian or European in origin.

Iris - unsigned faux pearl jewellery. Paper tag in green and gold attached with Iris and a seahorse motif. From Majorca. Little information is available.

J C - Unknown mark on very good quality earrings. 

Jewel Crest - an Australian company that sells high-quality jewellery encrusted with Swarovski crystals.

Jewelcraft was the name used by Coro (US) in the UK for their Jewelcraft jewellery. The company were not allowed to use the name Coro because of the UK company Ciro. So the majority of sales were under the name Jewelcraft here in the UK. The dating is unclear but the name was used in the fifties through to the 1970s when the company stopped trading. 

Jewelcraft signatures are often in a script, and look out for their distinctive pear-shaped tag with concentric circles that seems to be used by only them. Signatures can be rubbed and difficult to find sometimes. 
Jewelcraft signatures are often in a script, and look out for their distinctive pear-shaped tag with concentric circles that seems to be used by only them. Signatures can be rubbed and difficult to find sometimes. 
 
Jonette Jewelry (JJ)  - 1944 - 2006 US company we have examples of their signature and jewellery. Used the name Artifact as well. 

Jonquille - Unknown company

Julianna - See D & E jewellery.

Gand H jewellery identification

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G and H jewellery identification.

Following on from our alphabetically arrange designer jewellery information from Victorian to modern trademarks, tags, signatures and hallmarks. All the photos included to help you identify are our own. that means that we have sourced and owned the actual jewellery at some point. 

A- B | C - D | E - F | I - J | K - L | M - N | O - P | Q, R - S | T, U - V | X, Y - Z  | 

Garne - 1940s - 1960.A  smaller jewellery company probably based in New York, America. They produced glitzy jewellery that was often handcrafted. Pieces that are signed Garne (with an accent over the e) have been found also signed Coro (same jobber) and they were known to have D & E makes some of their pieces. Their logo is Garne in joined-up writing on a slant with a small crown above. They made Garne necklaces, earrings, bracelets and brooches.

Gaskin Arthur - Husband and wife team with Georgina Gaskin. Arts & Crafts era, linked with Birmingham.Various designs used from Italian Renaissance to Scandinavian folk art. The headmaster of the Vittoria Street School of Jewellery and Silver-smithing in Birmingham. Botanical plant drawing was part of the curriculum, this was then used in their designs.

Gaskin Georgina - Wife of Arthur Gaskin - Most jewellery was produced by her. see below.

Gaskin Arthur - Husband and wife team with Georgina Gaskin. Arts & Crafts era, linked with Birmingham.Various designs used from Italian Renaissance to Scandinavian folk art. The headmaster of the Vittoria Street School of Jewellery and Silver-smithing in Birmingham. Botanical plant drawing was part of the curriculum, this was then used in their designs.

Gems TV - 2004 - 2010. 2011 - 2013 to today. Now known as Gemporia, UK jewellery TV channel selling silver, gold and gemstone jewellery originally. Now has an online presence.

George - 1990s - today. Clothing brand available at Asda stores. Fashionable and value for money range.

Ges Gesch - just means "Made in Germany" in German. Short for Gesetzlich Geschutz. It is the German meaning for trademark, copyright or patent. 

Gerrys - In production from the early 1950s to the mid-1990s. This US jewellery company produced different pieces from Christmas, cameo to floral and other motifs. Classed as an average quality and worth collecting.

Hart May - Skilled enamellist who use plique-a jour techniques. Married to Fred T Partridge.

Giusti Louis - This Italian painter by trade has been producing jewellery since at least the 1950s. He has recently passed away. Signature is L G in a plain tag with a heart shape on its side. The L.G. is enclosed within this.  

Goody - 1920s USA company that manufactured in America dress clips and hair accessories in metal, diamante, plastic and other materials.

Grau David - David Grau was in business from the late 1980s to early 2000s. Not in production since 2004. Sold good quality jewellery and was based in Barcelona, Spain.

HAC - See Hattie Carnegie.

HC - See Hattie Carnegie

Hart May -
Skilled enamellist who use plique-a jour techniques. Married to Fred T Partridge.

Henkel & Grosse - 1907 - 2005. From 1955 this company produced Dior jewellery. Good quality costume jewellery. 

 Hobe - 1887 - today. Cie Hobe founded his gold jewellery company in France, Paris. But it wasn't until 1927 when the costume jewellery was produced. It was Cie's son William, who took over this line in America. He made the Ziegfeld Follies costumes and jewellery in Hollywood in the 50s. Where he became famous and the stars loved his pieces. Almost always marked with Hobe. In the 2000s, the original company sold on to another. Before then all the jewellery had been designed by members of the Hobe family. Still in business today, with a new and different style.  

Hodel Joseph - Arts & Craft's designer. Member of the Bromsgrove Guild of Applied Art in Birmingham. Produced floral leaf and fruit patterns in silver with semi precious stones. He made buckles, brooches and pendants.

Hollywood Birmingham Manufacturers - Bloxidge Brothers from at least 1929 until the 1980s. Signed from the 1950s - 1980s found. Very similar to Exquisite with some of the moulds used, but copying was rife in the pre 60s era for many companies? Unsigned earlier jewellery can still be found if it is still in its original boxes that are signed. Sole manufacturer of their jewellery at one time was Woolworths. Which of course is now gone
Since writing the above: An advert came to light with a D Ackerman and Sons of London. That they were the "creators of Hollywood jewellery" as well as the Ainette brand. I have a theory that the Bloxidge Brothers made the jewellery for this company, which they then sold under the name Hollywood. - but this will need to be confirmed.

Hollywood (Joseff )- USA company. 1928 - today. Eugene Joseff started in 1928 in Hollywood. Starting out making historical costume jewellery for Hollywood films and productions. He was pretty savvy and rented them out rather than sold them. Originally with his brother Jimmy Glaser. He founded Sunset jewellery manufacturers. After his brother left. Joseff continued and it is said that in the 30s to 40s, he made about 90% of the costume pieces in films. Most of the jewellery along with jewelled daggers, breastplates and other ornamental accessories used when filming is still owned by the company. In 1937, he expanded to retail and started selling jewellery in stores across the US. Tragically in 1948, he died. Crashing his aeroplane that he was flying. His wife Joan and partner took over until her death in 2010 at 97.  The company also made jewellery for Dallas and still today their pieces can be seen in TV productions.  

Hong Kong Following the cessation of the British Empire in the sixties. Hong Kong began to import jewellery across the world. Cheaper than most of the established manufacturers, this contributed to many of them closing. Signed Hong Kong on the clasps. Now collectable in its own right. 

Honora - US company that have been trading since the 1950s in quality and affordable jewelry. Now specialise in selling freshwater pearls in all sorts of jewelry and in all sorts of colours. Plastic removable tag with Honora in capital letters. 

Kand L Top jewellery brands

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K and L Top Jewellery Brands.

Here is our brand's information for jewellery. From designer to the unknown. Each small piece of information that I have been gathered to help you identify your own preowned and vintage jewellery. Looking at the back or on tags or on boxes they are in. The photos are to help you more visually. They are our own that we have had in stock or now sold. Arranged alphabetically (sort of) 

A- B | C - D | E - F | G - H | I - J | M - N | O - P | Q, R - S | T, U - V | X, Y - Z 

Kaywin Novelty Jewelry - Late 1920s to the mid-1940s. New York company set up by Dan Kosoff and Marty Weiner. This was Dan Kosoff's first business before he went onto Florenza. The name is an amalgamation of parts of both of their names. They made jewellery including many dress clips and accessories with buttons, buckles and brooch chatelaines being popular. Rhinestones, beads, cabochon and brass stampings were used with findings and embellishments that were sold at that time. Signed "Kaywin Nov NY" mostly, but also "Kaywin" on its own.

Keyes - a Canadian company that was based in Montreal. The 1940s to the 1990s production of high-end costume jewellery also known as fake jewellery. Friends of the Keyes included Marcel Boucher and Sherman.

Kigu of London - Kigu manufactured compacts for which it was famous for as well as a small range of Kigu jewellery. They also produced enamelled pillboxes, folding mirrors, combs, clocks and other handbag type accessories

The first powder compact was created by Josef Kiaschek in Hungary. Gustav Kiaschek, his son went on to start the company KI-GU in Budapest.

Gustav's three sons emigrated around the world. George arrived in London in 1939 and founded Kigu of London. The war stopped production as with most of the manufacturing companies in the UK. All the factories concentrated on production for the war effort. Paul his brother joined the company after World War 11 in 1947. After George died in 1977, his son David joined the company until the early eighties when the company was sold to another compact firm called A S Brown who produced the range of Mascot compacts. Later Laughton & Sons (Stratton) took both the Kigu and Mascot brands and amalgamated it with their own famous brand Stratton.

Jewellery produced by Kigu is well made and seems to have been produced from the fifties. They produced some gorgeous cuff bracelets, earrings and necklaces in the fifties. A range of simulated marcasite in earrings and matching brooches called Marquetta produced in the 1950s. This jewellery was rhodium-plated or 22 ct gold plated. Some of the range were hand enamelled in three alternative colours. The earrings were either clip on, screw or in French wire form. The clipped earrings have a very distinctive clip finding not seen on any other earrings. Production continued into the eighties. The mark used is Kigu
For some photographs of their jewellery and the Marquetta range. Also extensive information with photographs on the Kigu compacts and other accessories visit their informative website. 
Kigu of London - Kigu manufactured compacts for which it was famous for as well as a small range of Kigu jewellery. They also produced enamelled pillboxes, folding mirrors, combs, clocks and other handbag type accessories

The first powder compact was created by Josef Kiaschek in Hungary. Gustav Kiaschek, his son went on to start the company KI-GU in Budapest.
Gustav's three sons emigrated around the world. George arrived in London in 1939 and founded Kigu of London. The war stopped production as with most of the manufacturing companies in the UK. All the factories concentrated on production for the war effort. Paul his brother joined the company after World War 11 in 1947. After George died in 1977, his son David joined the company until the early eighties when the company was sold to another compact firm called A S Brown who produced the range of Mascot compacts. Later Laughton & Sons (Stratton) took both the Kigu and Mascot brands and amalgamated it with their own famous brand Stratton.

Jewellery produced by Kigu is well made and seems to have been produced from the fifties. They produced some gorgeous cuff bracelets, earrings and necklaces in the fifties. A range of simulated marcasite in earrings and matching brooches called Marquetta produced in the 1950s. This jewellery was rhodium-plated or 22 ct gold plated. Some of the range were hand enamelled in three alternative colours. The earrings were either clip on, screw or in French wire form. The clipped earrings have a very distinctive clip finding not seen on any other earrings. Production continued into the eighties. The mark used is Kigu

For some photographs of their jewellery and the Marquetta range. Also, extensive information with photographs on the Kigu compacts and other accessories visit their informative website. 
 
King Henry William Birmingham UK/London silversmiths & jewellery maker Victorian to? See Shiptons also. Mark on silver was H W K. Arts and Crafts include landscaped boxes.

King Jessie M - Scottish Glaswegian born and worked for Liberty. Known for her Mackintosh inspired birds with flora enamelled silver buckle work.

Kisumu - Contemporary and original. Started to trade via Facebook. Now under Amber jewellery, who only sell wholesale

Kramer - 1943 - 1970s/80s. New York company started by Louis Kramer.  Joined by his brothers Harry and Morris. Made costume pieces in enamel, gilt metal and Swarovski and Austrian crystals. Usually signed Kramer,Kramer of New York or Kramer NY. In the 1950s and 1960s, they worked with Dior. These pieces are stamped Christian Dior by Kramer, Dior by Kramer or Kramer by Dior. Parure or sets of jewellery are the most collectable and sought after from this company.

Krystal, London - 1980s to today. Produces Swarovski crystal-encrusted handcrafted jewellery made in the UK. The tag has Krystal London on and on the reverse the designer Kish.

Lalique Rene 1888 - today For a more in-depth account see the Rene Lalique information link.

Lane Kenneth J (KJL) - Kenneth Jay Lane 1932 - 2017, Started out in 1963 when working for high-end stores in America. First took ordinary plastic bangles and sold them outside the store he was working in. Progressing to selling his jewellery to the Duchess of Windsor. He copied high-end real jewellery and made them in costume. Starts and politician wives loved to wear them. It was safer than wearing more expensive ones. In the 90s, sold on QVC. His company is still in business today. 

Lambourne's Company founded in Birmingham UK. 

Lee Judy 1950s - 1970s - House party company selling in the home. From the company Blanch-Ette that was founded in 1958. Judy Lee was the trademark that they used. Not so well known or available. they are worthy of collecting now. The company used unique designs and very good quality findings or stones.
 
L C - see Claiborne Liz.

Liberty Arthur Lasenby - In 1875 he opened a small shop in London's Regent Street. First, he sold oriental fabrics and good - so the shop was called "East India House" By 1885, the shop was doing very well and had become a lot bigger. Arthur Liberty had also now started to included English designers to create fabrics, fashion and furniture amongst other products. In the 1890s, silver and pewter jewellery & other products were sold under the trade names "Tudric" and "Cymric". By the early 1900s, he had also included European products into the now Liberty & Co. Celtic designs attributed to Archibald Knox. Oliver Baker and Jessie M King were another two jewellery designers that worked for Liberty. However, Liberty insisted on having a policy of anonymity for the designers.    

Lin - Bangkok, Thailand wholesale to suppliers. Started in 1985 and now sell worldwide both jewellery and fancy goods. All are in silver. 

M and N brands of jewellery

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M to N brands of vintage to modern jewellery.

Brands of jewellery information and mark guide from M to N. Part of our alphabet jewellery series. The marks and brands are photographed for additional information. The photographs are taken from items that we have sourced, so they are copyrighted to us. 

A- B | C - D | E - F | G - H | I - J | K - L | O- P | Q, R - S | T, U - V | X, Y - Z |

MacDonald Francis - (1873 - 1921) Part of the Scottish Arts & Crafts movement famous four. Sister to Margaret MacDonald.

MacDonald Margaret - (1864 - 1933) Wife to Charles Rennie Mackintosh and sister to Francis Mackintosh. One of the 4 well known Scottish Arts & Crafts designers.

Mackintosh Charles Rennie - (1868 - 1928) Forerunner and well known Arts & Crafts designers in Scotland. With 3 other members of his family. See above and below.

MacNair James Herbert - (1868 - 1955) Husband to Francis MacDonald. One of the four Scott's Arts & Crafts designers.

Mali - Handcrafted jewellery from the African continent. Well made and signed Mali. Similar to JJ in pewter.

Marsel Lorraine - American wholesaler in Texas. She used the signature "Lorraine © Marsel" on her jewellery, trinkets and accessories sold. However, she is famous for reselling pieces brought from Florenza. These are marked with Florenza as well as Lorraine Marsel. if it only has the Lorraine signature - THEN it is not a Florenza piece. 

Mann Adrien - 1968 - 1992 ?approx. Manufactures and retail of upmarket imitation jewellery, London UK. When dissolved in 1992/1993 Marcel Roland Mann b 1943, was the director. The company had the following companies also - The Ringleader LTD, Imitation jewellery supplies LTD, Amboise Promotions LTD, Adrien Mann (Holdings) LTD, Adrien Mann (contracts) LTD, Paris London Manufacturers LTD, Adrien Mann wholesale LTD, Adrien Mann retail LTD. Unsigned and signed imitation jewellery produced.

Marks & Spencer (M & S) Started out in 1884 as a market stall selling penny items in England. Now a global company with stores that not only sell jewellery and accessories but food, home furnishings and clothes. Marked M &a S. Accessories can be marked, St Michael.   

MASJ Crafted pewter from Edward and Maureen Ann Story-Jones in the Mid Wales county of Montgomery shire 1984 to 2017. Silver Scenes range was started along with other giftware in 1984. The items are silver plated over a pewter base. Just becoming vintage with the 1980s and 1990s usually signed and dated. Early pieces are signed AND dated - later post 2000s pieces appear not to be.

The company was taken over when the couple retired in 2005, and continued until June 2017, by the new owners Phil Wilson and Bill Whitby. The company was dissolved in 2017, but you will still find beautifully crafted jewellery and giftware available today. 

 Miracle - A Hill and Company LTD first started producing jewellery based in Birmingham in 1946. Predominantly producing imitation jewellery but also a smaller range of sterling silver and semi-precious gemstone jewellery.

In 2006 the company became Miracle Jewellery Ltd and was still in production until 2013. In 1996 the firm celebrated its 50th jubilee.

Miracle jewellery although most known for the faux multi-coloured gemstone -  Scottish and Celtic designs, have produced a wide range of historically inspired jewellery over the years.

From styles inspired from Africa & Chinese, Anglo Saxon, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Baroque, birthstone, Medieval & Gothic, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Roman, Commemorative, English, Welsh & Irish, nature & animal, heraldic, mosaic, Renaissance, Viking and including diamante, rhinestone, faux marcasite & pearls.

Most of Miracle are of faux stones with the exception of sterling pieces and those with semi-precious stones that are marked "Miracle & gem" Also a small range of natural slate jewellery

Many different types from A Hill and Miracle LTD have been produced including necklaces, bracelets, pendants, earrings (clip, screw & pierced styles), brooches, kilt pins, keyrings, rings, scarf clips, fobs and rosaries.

Non-jewellery pieces include tea, coffee, caddy spoons and paper knives.

The majority of jewellery is signed, with only a few exceptions and when to add a signature was difficult. Notable look a likes to Miracle were the company Jacobite and Exquisite seventies range of faux stone vintage costume jewellery. Miracle jewellery company in Birmingham has closed its doors and shut April 2013. It is now owned by the Cornwall company St Justin. 
Other signed jewellery associated with Miracle (who owned the designs) are:

Sol D OR Made by A Hill & CO LTD for Sol-var of Ireland.
MIZPAH - The Mizpah jewellery is signed Mizpah and have a double heart pierced with an arrow. Not to confuse with earlier Mizpah pieces from other companies that have Mizpah on the front of the jewellery. These were produced by Quarrier Ward and the Ward Brothers. The designs were taken over by the Miracle LTD along with the designs from W. Johnson & sons.
The Ward Brothers produced sterling silver from the nineteenth century and were originally based in Edinburgh. Moving to Birmingham to increase production, this company produced Scottish designs with brilliantly faceted stones. Marked with the Ward Brothers Birmingham or Edinburgh assay hallmark or if under 7 grams in weight they are marked "sterling/silver and WBs"
The Ward Brother's designs were acquired by Miracle and today are still produce, now by St Justin of Cornwall.

Jewellery by Miracle, SOL D'OR, Mizpah and the Ward Brothers is very collectable.
 

Mirella - See Exquisite for the manufacturer information. A rare range of jewellery as Mirella was predominantly little nick-knacks such as ring holders and trinket boxes and mirrors. The name was from an employee of W A P Watson company. 1950s - 1970s. For more information see Exquisite. Please note. Mirella jewellery can often be the same jewellery stamped Exquisite on the reverse. 

Monet. For Monet jewellery information and great jewelry, pictures See Monet jewelry.

Mott Thomas L (TLM) 1875 - 1970s. Birmingham UK company based in the Jewellery Quarter. Produced miniature works of art in portraits, floral and places. Enamel travel map charms for tourist collection and most famous for his "butterfly wings" designs in the 1920s. Using real butterfly wings. Signed TLM or TM. Produced brooches, rings, pendants, charm bracelets and charms. As well as other souvenirs. Their imitation jewellery and silver pieces is now very highly sought. See Shiptons also. 

Napier. 1878 - today see Napier jewellery information for a more in depth history and our 
 
New Look - Started out in 1969 in the UK. in Taunton, Somerset. A small shop grew into a large fashion brand. Selling in the UK, China, Europe and Asia. Sells cheaper lines of fashion jewellery to the younger women of today.  

O and P Understanding jewellery marks

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O to P, In Understanding Jewellery Marks series.

Looking for jewellery marks to understand the company and designers. Then you have come to the right place. This is a guide full of information from O to P with photos of the marks to aid identification and help understand.

A- B | C - D | E - F | G - H | I - J | K - L | M - N | Q, R - S | T, U - V | X, Y - Z 

Oasis - mid-1990s to today. A British company that sells both vintage & contemporary jewellery and clothing worldwide.

Partridge Fred T - Part of Ashbee's Guild and School of Handicrafts. Produced exquisite combs inspired by French Art Nouveau. Used brass, horn shell and steel materials. Married to May Hart.  

Past Times - 1986 - 2012. Past times sold historical and reproduction history jewellery, accessories as well as home furnishings, books, makeup and more. The jewellery came in their trade logo boxes. But unfortunately does not appear to have been signed. Nice quality and an excellent historical version of jewellery to wear.

Pell 1941 - present-day, Company situated in Long Island, New York, USA. Produced fake jewellery of good quality the simulated "fine" jewellery. Uses rhinestones, crystals and other stones. The family business started by brother's Gaita.

PL - unknown but probably an Asian manufacturer from the 1980s and 1990s. This is a registered trademark. Note the R in a circle - small next to the PL stamp. This is the registered mark of a company. If no R or copyright sign - then not a company brand. But be aware that PL can also be meaning plated metal. It can also be mean platinum.

Poole - see Pottery jewellery for Poole and more information soon.

Princess Pearls - Unknown company. Hangtag on a faux pearl necklace.

Principles - 1984 - today (Under the Debenhams umbrella of brands) Fashion stores across the UK, that closed in 2009. First under the Burton's Group, then Arcadia Group, Rubicon Retail & Mosaic Fashions.
 

Q, R and S jewellery maker's guide

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Q, R and S Jewellery Maker's Guide.

Company jewellery maker's guide beginning with Q, R and S. Arranged alphabetically to include jewellery brands modern, vintage and antique, logos, designers and famous stores that sell.
 
A- B | C - D | E - F | G - H | I - J | K - L | M - N | O - P | T, U - V | X, Y - Z  |  

Readings - patent information on Victorian/Edwardian shirt clips. Unknown information.
 
Royal Orchid Company LTD -  Jewelry company from Chiang Mai, Thailand. Producing orchid design jewellery.

RT - unknown company. Mark found on a 1980s enamel jewellery brooch. Copyright signature and similar backing to the enamelled jewellery of the "Fish" company. 

Salmon David - UK company that sold fashion and costume jewellery based in Manchester. Seems to have been trading from the eighties and stopped in the nineties. 

Sara - Unknown company with a heart shaped tag. On one side of the tag is the words Sara in lower case and the other has 3 dashes that form a face. Quality gemstone made jewelry. Be aware that Sarah Coventry jewelry has been known to be signed Sara - although this is rare.

Sea Gems UK - the 1990s - today. Cornish based company that originally produced enamel jewellery. Now making silver jewellery, fine enamel jewellery and gifts. Very collectible and inspired by Celtic and other traditional organic origins. 

Sherman 1947 - 1981 Canada's finest glitzy jewelry producer. Gustave Sherman in Montreal. Produced gorgeous rhinestone and crystal jewelry including earrings, necklaces, bracelets and brooches. Aurora borealis effect on his stones is thought to predate the stated start date of use in 1956. Used Swarovski crystal in his Sherman jewelry and rhodium plating especially to the back of the pieces. Unfortunately, many of his pieces were not signed. Those that were can be dated from the type of signature

Sherman in script on an oval plaque is the earliest for the 1950s. In a rectangle the 1960s.

Identification - a square rhinestone tag at the very end of the necklaces.

They do sparkle is one of their characteristic features due to the Swarovski stones

If you like very sparkling rhinestone jewelry then this is one to collect.

Shiptons - family company based in the Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham, UK. From Victorian to today. Patented the reverse carved butterfly wing jewellery in 1923. Most found are 18th century dressed men and women and the Dutch boy fishing. Rarer jewellery includes the fairies, Elves and Art Deco scenes. Scenes of England including the sea views and inland water ways. Signed by Dorothy Buckley, Daisy Smith and ?

Thomas L Mott and Henry W King were companies Shipton's purchased their butterfly wings pieces for their shops. The shops were in coastal resorts including Hastings.

Silver Scenes - see MASJ for a more detailed guide. 

Sophos - See the Sophos jewellery follow the link for Sophos information.

Sphinx -English company  For Sphinx information and photographs. 

Stratton UK company founded in Birmingham in Victorian England. Famous for made in England men's jewellery as well as compacts and all sorts of other items. For more information see Stratton vintage jewellery.

Swarovski - This company used the swan emblem to mark their jewellery. 

T, U and V jewellery trademark directory

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T, U to V Jewellery trademarks Directory.

Alphabetical arranged jewellery directory of trademarks and company information. From past to present. We explore T, U and V brands that start with these letters. 

A- B | C - D | E - F | G - H | I - J | K - L | M - N | O - P | Q, R - S | X, Y - Z  |  

Taiwan Jewellery - made in Taiwan stamps and marks.
 

Taylor Elizabeth - In the 1990s Elizabeth Taylor promoted her perfume "White Diamonds" with several items jewellery including a brooch and clip earrings with bows and diamante. These are signed with a signature "WD" and identified from their boxes. Still today, some gift sets include her designer jewelry the most recent a pendant with a chain seen in 2015. She also had a range of costume jewelry especially designed for her tastes with Avon in the 1990s. They are now very collectible. Since her death and sale of her fine jewels. There are quite a few companies making copies of her most famous pieces under her name. This includes QVC.  

Trifari - see Trifari jewelry and more in depth information Examples of Trifari jewelry and the marks.  

Torino - American selling company that sells pewter jewelry with a novelty flare.

Ultra Craft - US company based in Rhode Island. Founder was Luigi Guadagno (C1936 - 2002) an American Italian who was born in Italy. The company made the Miss Universe and Miss America crowns in the eighties. Just a few pieces of Ultra Craft jewelry is available on the web. Brooches and earrings mostly found. Hand finished in large sizes and two tone or single colored metal. Pewter used with gold tone metals. A mix of whimsical and arty. Loved cat designs!

Torq - Little known about this company before 1995. At that point, they had 69 jewellery shops in the UK selling lower costing jewellery and watches. In 1995 they were in receivership and taken over by the Salisbury Stores group. This Sheffield UK based company owns the Salisbury luggage stores and Sock Shop chain.  

Tudor Mint - Myths and Magic Range by WAP Watson see Exquisite and WAP Watson.

Vendome - See Coro for all Vendome accessories information and more links.

Vogue Bijoux - High quality jewelry produced in Italy. This company closed in the 1990s and were famous for their hand finished costume pieces. Often finished in 18 ct gold plate. They are not the same as Vogue jewelry - which is a completely different brand.

Vogue No 1 - Unknown company but probably from Asia. Late 1980s to the 1990s selling fashion jewelry.

Vrba Lawrence - American jewelry designer. Worked for Miriam Haskell and Castlecliffe to name a few.

W, X Y and Z stamps on jewellery

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W, X, Y and Z Stamps on Jewellery.

Stamps on the back of jewellery shows who made it and which designer it is. It can also tell you how old as certain companies used different stamps at different year ranges. Hallmarks were more used for gold and silver - this is not included in this alphabetically arranged directory.

A- B | C - D | E - F | G - H | I - J | K - L | M - N | O - P | Q, R - S | T, U - V |  

W A P Watson - See Exquisite for further details as this was the company that produced the Exquisite and Mirella range also. W A P Watson can be seen on the Gothic Tudor Mint range of brooches and key rings. Often in pewter and with a crystal stone (real and faux) as with the Tudor Mint range of Dungeons and Dragon series. Signed on the reverse in a  circular plaque. See Exquisite for more information.

Weiss - 1942 - 1971.Albert Weiss worked for Coro initially before striking out on his own. Excelled in the 1950s and 1960s, that had to arrange with Hollycraft to cover orders and demand. Produced some fabulous sparkling pieces on the par with Eisenberg. Famous for brooches in rhinestone, figural of birds, butterfly and fruit, Swarovski crystal earrings and much more

Wilson Henry - (1864 - 1934) Inspired by nature, Medieval and the Renaissance period and was part of the Arts & Crafts era. Used gemstones carved to fit his designs - unusual amongst other jewellers of this period.

Warner Brothers - Copyright jewellery produced for the film company. Under Warner Bros marking.

West Germany - Western Germany jewellery signed pieces will only date between the years 1949 to 1990 when the republic of Western Germany was in existence.

Willie Frey - see Michaela Frey information. 

Yves St Laurent   - see YLS jewellery mark on the reverse of his jewellery.

1928 Jewelry - 1960s to the present day (USA). Online shop as well as several outlets in California and a shop in Canada. Also sells to the Macey's Store. Sells their own antique and vintage jewellery inspired brands lines under various names includes "Downton Abbey, Signature 1928, Antiquities Couture, Symbols of Faith, 2028 and many more.
Unknown and unidentified signatures - that we can not read to be shown soon.

Collecting funky jewellery this year 2020

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What funky jewellery am I collecting this year?

At the start of each year since 2012, I have racked my dysfunctional brain on what unusual and funky jewellery to collect. It has to be cheap, fashion or costume, slightly kitsch and a mix of pre-owned and new. Throughout the year, I photograph and showcase that collection. In previous years, I have collected alien and space themed jewellery, dinosaur jewellery, recycled, witch, Gothic and magic styled pieces. Along with Egyptian jewellery and unusual vintage beads. Not forgetting those plastic brightly coloured rings that could be found on cakes from a well-known shop.

Avon cat with brooch witch brooch.


Do I wear my funky jewellery?

Actually no. I see it as art pieces to display and admire (Or cringe - depending on your tastes). Yes, I would wear it in the right circumstances - but that has yet not been an option or the opportunity has not reared its head at this point. However, the funky pieces that I collect are made to be worn.

Do I stop collecting jewellery?

Ahh...No. Every year I end up adding to previous yearly collections. So that's another alien brooch, space rocket earrings or an Egyptian pharaoh necklace that I find on my travels ends up in its respective theme jewellery box. I find my jewellery mostly at vintage sales, car boots, charity shops, jumble sales, stores, markets or online. As I am no longer selling vintage and handmade jewellery. I tend to only look a couple of times a month now and only buy a couple of items that catch my eye. Everything I have that I brought to sell is in storage until I find the time in a few years time to start to sell jewellery again. However, each year's themed collection is not for sale as I keep them for showing at a later time on another blog to inspire and see how much is available out there. Also, Google tends to archive blogs and it is better to add a fresh collection over time. So look out for each past year's funky collection that I will be re-photographing and showcasing soon.

 Now what to collect this year?

There are so many things to create a brand new theme that I was spoilt for choice. Some of the ideas are Disney jewellery, sea-themed, real shell, fossil, science (as in DNA and molecular shaped), political or fruit. I considered cactus-shaped, charity and those rubber/silicone band bracelets. I wanted something that I would not normally source and it had to be interesting.

The funky jewellery I intend to collect this year is politically inspired and news related jewellery.  

As at last, we are getting out of the European Union. I have decided to collect politically related pieces. Starting with Brexit and moving on through the different political and news-related issues that are ever-present in the world. I hope to find climate change inspired jewellery and badges. I think that someone will also produce charity jewellery to raise funds for the Australian people and animals harmed in the awful fires soon. So that we do not forget and raise more money. 

As this year continues there will be other things that happen. Political, environmental, social and other changes here and abroad. As well as breaking news issues. If no specific jewellery is produced then I plan to buy a kangaroo brooch and koala earrings, for the Australian fire reminders as well as other similar pieces that serve as a memorial or commemorative piece. But they may not have been first made for that purpose intentionally.  

To start off - I have ordered a few Brexit badges and plan to buy a necklace.  So watch this blog...

Stratton jewellery

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Stratton jewellery and accessories with their men's jewellery


Stratton jewellery and accessories. Once based in Birmingham and London - This company started in the 1860s and folded in the late 1990s. The brand name "Imitation" was also produced by Stratton.
They made a wide range of items from women's jewellery, men's jewellery, jewellery boxes, trinket boxes and accessories to buttons and not forgetting their range of famous compacts. All our items have been sourced here in the UK and photographed by us. 
Stratton Made in England. Stamp on the reverse of a pretty trinket box

Stratton long tie clip in white and gold

Signature on the back of the above white tie pin. It says "Stratton, made in England, Pat app for" Patent applied for

Some Stratton pieces are unsigned. This pair of cufflinks has "Metal" and Pat number on only.

Stratton of London on the inside of a box

The patent number on one of Stratton's cufflinks

Presented by Stratton England on a box containing cufflinks and tie pin

The passant lion is an emblem used on Stratton boxes with the gold and red detail. However, this is not signed Stratton. It is from a shop on Bond Street, London.

Bond Street jewellery but in fact made by Stratton. See above on how to identify


Corocraft jewellery

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Jewelcraft to Corocraft and Coro jewellery. With Vendome


One of the brand names used by the jewellery company Coro was Jewelcraft. It was used here in the UK quite a lot, because of the court case that Ciro Pearls the UK company had with Coro – over the right not to use their name here as it was too like their own. Ciro won and so Coro was not allowed to use their brand name of Coro here and that means that many of the pieces found here in the UK will be marked “Jewelcraft” or “Corocraft” instead. All the ones we will be showing are signed – unless they come within a set and at least one other is signed. But I will tell you about this when I show the jewellery.

In this blog, we will gradually add the photographs and signatures of Jewelcraft jewellery that we have found and hopefully build up quite a jewellery library of images. Below is a pair of large earrings by Jewelcraft with a red enamel design and next to it the Jewelcraft markings on their jewellery.

jewelcraft red flame earrings
Large 1960s red enamel clip on earrings by Jewelcraft
mark of jewelcraft jewelry
Jewelcraft signature on the reverse of above earrings
Jewelcraft pewter earrings
Pewter Jewelcraft earrings with metallic grey floral detail. Clip-on style as with most of their early earrings was.
pearl brooch Jewelcraft
Very large and impressive single stem flower brooch with cream faux pearl detail and gold tone finish. Stamped Jewelcraft
Corocraft leaf by Coro
The 1970s stylised leaf brooch twisted in an all gold-tone finish. Stamped Corocraft
Corocraft stamp on jewelry
Corocraft stamp on the reverse of the above floral brooch
Corocraft was another Coro mark. Above is a leaf with the Corocraft stamp on. Pretty in all gold tone. In the seventies and eighties, I can remember that when shopping most of the jewellery around was saying Corocraft. But few are found here today – I puzzled about this for a while. I think that the cards and boxes were signed but not the actual jewellery pieces. Which will make it difficult to firmly identify.
Corocraft earring backs in their original packaging

Corocraft earring backs with the information shown from their original packet


jewelcraft jewelry set in enamel
Jewelcraft bracelet with matching enamel earrings (Clip-on style)
The above is a matching Jewelcraft jewellery set of a bracelet and earrings. In a light brown color. The bracelet is signed Jewelcraft but the earrings are unsigned. Without them being sourced together we would not have known they were from Coro.

As usual, we will be adding more Coro/Jewelcraft jewellery photographs as we take and source more. So please bookmark this and all our jewellery blogs

Miracle jewellery | St Justin Jewellery

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Miracle jewellery designs now under the ownership of St Justin jewellery

Since 1946, Miracle LTD has been a resident of Birmingham in the UK. But early in 2013, it was announced, that on the retirement of the owner, it had been taken over by the Cornish company St Justin. Both companies produce fine pewter and silver made jewellery in the style of Celtic, Scottish and historical reproductions. So we are showcasing both Miracle jewellery and St Justin jewellery together. 

  

  Miracle jewellery information 

First produced in Birmingham, England in 1946. It produced the famous Mizpah designs that were first made by the Quarrier Ward and Ward Brothers over 100 years ago. The Mizpah jewellery was set with the purple Bohemian glass that looks like amethyst and glass Cairngorm stones in its yellow-orange colour. Silver made jewellery was also produced in the Miracle, Ward Brothers and W Johnson designs. Handcrafted with engraving and completed with real semi-precious gemstones.
Although it's sad that Birmingham is at the end of an era for Miracle. It is still continuing Ward Brother’s legacy. We are very glad that the company has remained in the UK.


Large clip-on earrings - not in the usual style of Miracle.

 

Miracle stamp under the clip - can be missed at first glance

 

On this page, we will showcase the Miracle, Mizpah and St Justin jewellery that we have sourced and photographed. We will be leaving them so that you can see the many designs and information


Mizpah jewellery stamp = 2 hearts with an arrow through. (not to confuse with Mizpah Victorian pieces)St Justin jewelleryMizpah jewellerySt Justin jewellery SJC mark used by St Justin early in the companies history.


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