Saturday, December 20, 2008

Figural Charms Popular in the "Gay Nineties"

Figural Charms
With the “Gay Nineties” fads were in full swing. The first extensive manufacture of figural charms came about after the popularization of the “Brownie,” a character invented by Palmer Cox. This character was immortalized and manufactured by a savvy New York jeweler. Soon figural charms of almost every kind were being manufactured as the latest novelty.
The World’s Fair Columbian Exposition of 1893 presented one of the strangest fads of the 1890’s. Tiny lizards were sold and worn as a form of adornment. The lizard was held in place by being chained in some fashion to the wearer. As soon as the craze spread to New York City it was immediately banned. The jewelry industry was quick to follow and soon lizards became a popular motif for brooches and pins.

Saturday, November 8, 2008

Jewelry Truths

This blog is intended as an information resource site regarding popular myths, misinformation or untruths about collectible costume jewelry that are current on the Internet. This site is not to be used to flame or name specific persons, auctions or website being discussed or to post any pictures that violate copyright laws. Only websites that act as informational resource sites are allowed to be posted. Please do not editorialize. Just state facts

"Platinum Becomes Regulated" A look into our past

Platinum Becomes Regulated
The manufacturing of jewelry was not only influenced by fashion and culture but by changes in government regulations. Metals such as platinum or a combination of platinum with yellow gold had been the choice metal for much of the fine jewelry produced during this period. In France platinum was not recognized as a precious metal until 1910 and was not regulated in the United States until 1975. Changes in government classifications of metals used for jewelry manufacturing altered not only the public’s perception of value but the actual cost of material.

Note: Most jewelry made prior to 1975 in America which is marked Platinum varies in fineness.