The late 20th century saw a surge in collectible birthstone jewelry, and among the most popular were the Avon Angelic Birthstone Pins. Specifically, the pin representing February, featuring a simulated amethyst, offers a glimpse into the era’s jewelry trends and the enduring appeal of birthstone symbolism. These pins, produced by Avon in 1996, represent a blend of religious iconography, affordable fashion, and the personalized sentiment associated with birthstones. This article will explore the history and characteristics of this particular piece, its context within Avon’s product line, and the broader cultural significance of amethyst as a February birthstone, based on available information.
A Touch of Angelic Sentiment
Avon, a company renowned for its direct-selling model, released a series of “Angelic Birthstone Pins” throughout the 1990s. These pins featured a cherubic or angelic figure alongside a gemstone representative of each month. The February pin specifically showcases a simulated amethyst, a purple-hued stone intended to represent the birthstone for that month. The design incorporates a matte gold-tone finish and depicts an angel, often referred to as an “angel of love,” adding a layer of sentimental value to the piece.
These pins were not presented as fine jewelry but rather as affordable accessories, intended for everyday wear or as small gifts. The absence of original packaging or boxes for many surviving examples suggests they were often purchased as impulse buys or as part of larger Avon orders. The pins were sold individually, allowing collectors to acquire the stone corresponding to their own birth month or those of loved ones.
Avon’s Collectible Appeal and Market Context
The popularity of the Avon Angelic Birthstone Pins stemmed from several factors. Avon’s direct-selling network provided widespread access to their products, and the company’s marketing strategies often emphasized collectibility. The birthstone theme tapped into a long-standing tradition of associating gemstones with specific months and attributing symbolic meanings to them. The pins’ relatively low price point made them accessible to a broad consumer base, fostering a sense of affordability and encouraging multiple purchases.
The provided sources indicate a secondary market for these pins exists, with examples being sold on platforms like Poshmark and eBay. Prices vary, but generally remain low, reflecting the pins’ status as vintage costume jewelry rather than valuable gemstones. Bundled sales, offering discounts for multiple purchases, were a common practice, both during the original Avon sales and in the current resale market.
Amethyst and the February Birthstone Tradition
While the Avon pin features a simulated amethyst, understanding the history and symbolism of natural amethyst provides context for its selection as the February birthstone. Although the sources do not detail the origins of this association, amethyst has a rich history of use in jewelry and adornment.
Amethyst is a variety of quartz, and its purple color is due to iron impurities and natural irradiation. Historically, amethyst was considered a precious stone, valued for its beauty and rarity. The name "amethyst" comes from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning "non-intoxicated," as ancient Greeks believed the stone could prevent drunkenness. This belief led to amethyst being incorporated into drinking vessels and worn as amulets.
Throughout history, amethyst has been associated with royalty, spirituality, and protection. It was often used in religious settings, adorning ecclesiastical garments and vessels. The stone is believed to promote clarity, peace, and emotional balance. While the Avon pin does not carry the inherent value of a natural amethyst, it embodies the symbolic associations of the gemstone, offering a touch of its perceived benefits to the wearer.
Physical Characteristics and Care
The Avon pin utilizes a simulated amethyst, meaning the purple stone is not a natural amethyst but a manufactured material designed to resemble it. The sources do not specify the composition of the simulated stone, but it is likely glass or a synthetic material. The pin itself is constructed with a matte gold-tone finish, suggesting a base metal coated with a gold-colored alloy.
Given the materials used, the pin requires relatively simple care. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and prolonged exposure to moisture. Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth is recommended to maintain its appearance. The pin’s construction suggests it is not particularly durable and should be handled with care to prevent damage.
Collecting and Identifying Avon Birthstone Pins
Identifying authentic Avon Angelic Birthstone Pins is relatively straightforward. Key features include the cherubic or angelic design, the matte gold-tone finish, and the presence of a simulated gemstone representing a specific birth month. The pins are typically marked with the Avon logo, although this may be small or difficult to locate on older pieces.
The provided sources indicate that these pins were produced in sets, making complete collections desirable to some collectors. The condition of the pin, including the presence of any wear or damage, also affects its value. While not highly valuable in terms of material worth, the pins hold nostalgic appeal for those who remember Avon’s popularity in the 1990s and for collectors of vintage costume jewelry.
Variations and Related Avon Jewelry
The provided sources list a wide range of other jewelry items produced by Avon, including earrings, pendants, rings, and pins featuring various gemstones and designs. These include pieces specifically labeled as “Sarah’s Birthstone” jewelry, indicating a continued focus on birthstone themes within Avon’s product line. The company also produced jewelry with floral motifs, religious symbols, and abstract designs, catering to a diverse range of tastes. The sources also mention other Avon lines such as "Satin Beauty," "Satin Elegance," and "Silverwood," demonstrating the breadth of their jewelry offerings.
The availability of matching earrings, pendants, and rings for some birthstones suggests that Avon intended to create coordinated jewelry sets. However, the sources do not provide details on the extent to which these sets were actually sold as complete collections.
Conclusion
The Avon Angelic Birthstone Pin featuring a simulated amethyst represents a unique intersection of jewelry fashion, birthstone symbolism, and the direct-selling model of the late 20th century. While not a valuable gemstone in its own right, the pin embodies the enduring appeal of amethyst and the sentimental value associated with birthstones. Its affordability and accessibility made it a popular accessory, and its continued presence in the vintage jewelry market demonstrates its lasting appeal to collectors and those seeking a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era. The pin serves as a small but significant artifact of a particular moment in jewelry history, reflecting the tastes and trends of the 1990s.