This article explores the history and design of Avon’s “Heavenly Angel” birthstone pins, specifically those associated with the month of October. These collectible pins feature designs inspired by October’s traditional and modern birthstones – pink tourmaline and opal – and represent a blend of sentimental jewelry and accessible gemstone symbolism. The available sources primarily focus on the design and marketing of these pins, offering limited geological or historical context for the gemstones themselves.
A Symbol of October: The Angel Pin
Avon’s “Heavenly Angel” birthstone tac pin for October is a notable example of how birthstone jewelry has been adapted for mass-market appeal. Described as “STUNNING,” the pin is designed with openwork golden wings and “sparkling aurora borealis accents.” The central motif features an opalescent head and a gown adorned with pink rhinestones, directly referencing the colors associated with October’s birthstones. The pin is presented as a symbol of “love, guidance, and protection,” and marketed as both a gift and a “meaningful keepsake.” It comes “New in Box (NIB)” with original Avon packaging, emphasizing its collectible nature.
Design and Materials
The October angel pin is constructed with a focus on aesthetic appeal rather than utilizing genuine gemstones. The design incorporates golden wings and a gown embellished with pink rhinestones intended to evoke the look of pink tourmaline. The head of the angel is described as “shimmering opalescent,” suggesting a material meant to mimic the play-of-color characteristic of opal. The pin measures approximately 1.5 inches in size. The use of rhinestones and other simulated materials allows for affordability, making the pin accessible to a wider audience than jewelry featuring natural gemstones.
Jane Davis Angel Brooches: A Vintage Counterpart
While the primary focus is on the Avon pin, a related item from Jane Davis, a vintage jewelry designer, offers a comparative point. A 1996 Jane Davis “Angel of Love (AOL)” brooch features a similar angelic motif. This brooch is crafted from gold and silver-tone metal with filigree wings and a faux pearl head. A silver bow on the gown holds an emerald green rhinestone. The Jane Davis brooch, like the Avon pin, utilizes materials to create a visually appealing design, though it references a different birthstone – emerald, associated with May. The Jane Davis brooch is approximately 2 inches long and 2 inches wide at its widest point, and features a rollover safety clasp and a signature mark on the back.
Birthstone Representation in Avon and Sarah Coventry Collections
The provided sources indicate that both Avon and Sarah Coventry, another jewelry company, produced a range of birthstone-themed jewelry. Sarah Coventry offered birthstone earrings, pendants, and rings for various months, including amethyst for February, aquamarine for March, emerald for May, ruby for July, peridot for August, sapphire for September, topaz for November, and rose zircon for October. The range of offerings suggests a broader market trend of associating jewelry with specific birth months and their corresponding gemstones. The sources list numerous other jewelry designs from Sarah Coventry, including pins, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, showcasing a diverse catalog of styles and materials.
The Appeal of Collectible Pins
The Avon pin and the Jane Davis brooch both exemplify the popularity of collectible pins. The Avon pin is specifically marketed as a “timeless collectible,” and the Jane Davis brooch is described as a “precious pin.” The appeal of these pins lies in their sentimental value, their aesthetic design, and their potential for appreciation as vintage items. The limited-edition nature of some designs, such as the Jane Davis AOL collection, further enhances their collectibility. The sources also mention other pin designs from Sarah Coventry, indicating a strong market for pins as both fashion accessories and collectible items.
Materials and Craftsmanship
The materials used in these pins – rhinestones, faux pearls, and metal alloys – reflect a focus on affordability and accessibility. While not utilizing genuine gemstones, the materials are chosen to simulate their appearance and create a visually appealing effect. The craftsmanship involved in creating these pins varies. The Jane Davis brooch is described as “intricate,” suggesting a higher level of detail and skill in its construction. The Avon pin, while also described as “beautifully designed,” is likely produced on a larger scale with a focus on efficiency.
Sarah Coventry: A Broader Jewelry Landscape
The sources provide a glimpse into the extensive catalog of Sarah Coventry jewelry. Beyond birthstone pieces, the company produced a wide range of designs, including floral motifs, animal figures, and abstract patterns. The company also offered hostess gifts and awards, suggesting a marketing strategy focused on social gatherings and recognition. The variety of materials used by Sarah Coventry, including metal, rhinestones, and faux pearls, reflects a commitment to offering affordable and fashionable jewelry to a broad audience.
Table of Birthstone Associations (Based on Sources)
| Month | Avon Pin Association | Sarah Coventry Jewelry | Jane Davis Jewelry |
|---|---|---|---|
| October | Pink/Opal Inspired Rhinestones | Rose Zircon | N/A |
| February | N/A | Amethyst | N/A |
| March | N/A | Aquamarine | N/A |
| May | N/A | Emerald | Emerald Rhinestone |
| July | N/A | Ruby | N/A |
| September | N/A | Sapphire | N/A |
| November | N/A | Topaz | N/A |
Conclusion
The Avon “Heavenly Angel” birthstone pin for October, along with related designs from Jane Davis and Sarah Coventry, represents a fascinating intersection of birthstone symbolism, affordable jewelry, and collectible design. While the sources do not provide extensive geological or historical information about the gemstones themselves, they offer valuable insights into the marketing and aesthetic appeal of birthstone-themed jewelry. These pins serve as a reminder of the enduring popularity of birthstones and their ability to evoke feelings of sentimentality, protection, and personal connection. The focus on simulated materials and accessible designs demonstrates a commitment to making birthstone jewelry available to a wide audience.