The available sources detail a series of collectible plush animals released by Avon in the year 2000, marketed alongside birthstone associations. While not focusing on a traditional gemstone, this collection represents a unique intersection of birthstone symbolism, collectible merchandise, and a specific moment in time – the turn of the millennium. This article will explore the details of these items, focusing on the “Gill the Goldfish” plush, its associated birthstone, and the context of its release, based solely on the provided documentation.
A Millennial Marketing Strategy
Avon, a company with a long history in direct sales, launched a series of plush animals in 2000, each linked to a specific birth month and, by extension, a birthstone. These were marketed as “Millennium Birthstones,” capitalizing on the cultural significance of the new century. The items were accompanied by tags and booklets detailing the animal’s name, birth date, and a poem relating to its birthstone. The collection appears to have been a limited-edition offering, adding to their collectible appeal. The sources indicate a focus on nostalgia and collectibility, with descriptions emphasizing the items’ age and “antique and vintage” status.
Gill the Goldfish and January’s Simulated Garnet
The most detailed information pertains to “Gill the Goldfish,” associated with the birthstone for January. While the sources do not detail the specific symbolism connecting goldfish to January, the plush itself is described as being 7 inches long and featuring original tags, including a rhinestone-decorated hang tag. A booklet included with the plush provides further details about its identity and birthstone association.
Notably, the birthstone associated with this plush is described as a “simulated garnet.” This indicates that the items did not feature genuine gemstones, but rather imitations. A separate source details a “Birthstone Cross Necklace” also from Avon, featuring a “simulated garnet,” reinforcing the company’s use of artificial stones in this product line. The necklace is described as being 40cm in length with a 7cm extension chain, and the cross pendant measures 3x1.8cm.
Product Details and Condition
The sources provide specific details regarding the condition and materials of these Avon collectibles. The items are described as being “new without tags” or “new in stock, but things will get old if you keep them for a long time!” This highlights the age of the products and suggests they are primarily sought after by collectors. The sources advise storing antique jewelry (and by extension, these collectibles) in a zipper bag after use and avoiding exposure to water during activities like showering or swimming to prolong their lifespan.
The materials used in the construction of these items are not explicitly detailed beyond being described as plush. The necklace is noted to be made of an unspecified metal. The country of manufacture for at least one item is listed as Australia. The product is identified as “Pinkoi Exclusive, Eco-Friendly,” though the context of this designation is unclear.
Market Information and Availability
As of the time the sources were captured, availability of these items is limited. One source specifically states, “Only one in stock, order soon.” The Avon Birthstone Angel Tac Pin, specifically the July version, is also noted as having limited stock. The pin is described as being 2 gauge in size, red in color, and made by Avon. Its UPC is 094000131550. The seller notes the pin is “nwot” (new without tags).
The sources also indicate that these items are being sold through various online marketplaces, including Bonanza and Pinkoi. Pricing information is not provided, but the limited availability suggests potential value for collectors.
Avon and the Broader Context of Birthstone Jewelry
The sources do not provide extensive information about the history of birthstones or Avon’s role in the birthstone jewelry market. However, the existence of these collectible plush animals demonstrates Avon’s attempt to capitalize on the enduring popularity of birthstone symbolism. The company’s use of simulated gemstones suggests a focus on affordability and accessibility, appealing to a broad customer base.
Kremp Florist, mentioned in one source, represents a different facet of gift-giving and seasonal celebrations, potentially indicating a cross-promotional opportunity for Avon’s birthstone-themed products. Kremp Florist has been serving the Avon Lake, Ohio region for over 65 years, offering fresh flowers and plants for various occasions.
Gemological Properties (Limited Information)
Due to the nature of the sources, detailed gemological information is severely limited. The only gemstone mentioned is garnet, and even then, it is specified as “simulated.” Therefore, a discussion of garnet’s properties must be limited to acknowledging its existence as the traditional birthstone for January. Genuine garnet typically exhibits a range of colors, including deep red, orange, and even green. Its hardness on the Mohs scale ranges from 6.5 to 7.5, making it relatively durable for jewelry use. The chemical composition of garnet varies depending on the specific species, but generally includes silicate minerals with iron, magnesium, and other elements.
The sources do not provide any information about the materials used to simulate garnet in the Avon products.
Care and Cleaning (Based on Limited Information)
Given the use of simulated gemstones and plush materials, specific care instructions are limited. The sources advise storing antique jewelry in a zipper bag to prevent tarnishing and avoiding exposure to water. For the plush animals, gentle cleaning with a mild detergent and air drying would likely be appropriate. However, due to their age and collectible status, professional cleaning may be recommended.
Summary of Available Data in Table Format
| Item Type | Birthstone Association | Material | Condition | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plush Animal (Gill the Goldfish) | January (Simulated Garnet) | Plush | New with tags | 7" long, includes booklet and hang tags |
| Cross Necklace | January (Simulated Garnet) | Unspecified Metal | New in stock | 40cm chain with 7cm extension, 3x1.8cm pendant |
| Angel Tac Pin | July | Unspecified Metal | New without tags | 2 Gauge, Red |
| Country of Manufacture (at least one item) | Australia | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Conclusion
The provided sources offer a glimpse into a unique marketing campaign by Avon at the turn of the millennium. The “Millennium Birthstone” plush animals, particularly “Gill the Goldfish” associated with January’s simulated garnet, represent a nostalgic collectible item that blends birthstone symbolism with popular culture. While the sources lack detailed gemological information, they highlight the enduring appeal of birthstones and Avon’s strategy of offering affordable, accessible products to a broad audience. The limited availability of these items suggests a growing interest among collectors seeking a tangible connection to the past.