The provided sources detail a collection of jewelry, primarily watches and pendants, produced by Avon, a company known for its direct-selling model. While not a comprehensive gemological treatise, the materials offer insight into Avon’s use of gemstones – specifically quartz and zircon – within their birthstone-themed jewelry lines, particularly during the 1970s and 2000s. This article will explore the available information regarding these pieces, their materials, and their place within Avon’s product history.
Avon and the Rise of Fashion Jewelry
Avon, founded in 1886 as the California Perfume Company, transitioned to a direct-selling model in the early 20th century, becoming a household name through its network of representatives. The company expanded beyond perfumes to include a wide range of beauty and fashion products, including costume jewelry. The sources indicate a significant presence of Avon watches and pendants on resale markets, suggesting a substantial production volume and enduring popularity. The period represented in the sources spans from the 1970s through the 2000s, showcasing Avon’s adaptation to changing fashion trends. The company’s jewelry often catered to a broad consumer base, offering affordable and accessible fashion pieces.
Quartz and Zircon in Avon’s Birthstone Collections
The sources specifically mention quartz and zircon as gemstones used in Avon’s birthstone jewelry. A 1976 Avon birthstone teardrop pendant and earring set features a blue zircon Austrian glass stone, representing the December birthstone. Another item, a currently sold-out Avon birthstone link watch for November, utilizes quartz. This indicates that Avon employed both natural and simulated gemstones in their lines. The use of “Austrian glass” suggests that not all stones marketed as zircon were natural; rather, they were glass imitations designed to mimic the appearance of the genuine gemstone.
The sources do not provide details on the specific types of quartz used, but it is likely that rock crystal or colored quartz varieties were employed. The prevalence of crystal accents in other Avon jewelry pieces, as evidenced by descriptions of sparkling pendants and rhinestone accents, suggests a preference for clear and brilliant materials.
Historical Context of Birthstone Jewelry
The concept of associating specific gemstones with birth months has ancient roots, though the modern list of birthstones evolved over time. While the sources do not detail the historical origins of birthstone lore, they demonstrate Avon’s participation in this tradition by offering birthstone-themed jewelry. The 1976 pendant and earring set explicitly links the zircon to December, reflecting the established birthstone associations of the time. The practice of wearing birthstones was believed to bring good luck and possess specific healing properties, though these beliefs are largely considered pseudoscientific today. Avon’s marketing likely capitalized on these established beliefs to appeal to consumers seeking personalized and meaningful jewelry.
Avon Watch Designs and Materials
A significant portion of the provided sources focuses on Avon watches. These watches showcase a variety of designs, materials, and features. Common materials include gold-tone and silver-tone metals, leather straps, and crystal accents. Several watches feature quartz movements, a standard for affordable timepieces. The sources list numerous watch styles, including bracelet watches, cuff watches, and watches with date indicators.
Specific examples include:
- Sparkling Bracelet Watch (2005): A 22mm case with a silver-tone band and a new battery.
- Lime Green Watch: A new-with-tags watch in a vibrant color.
- Heart-Shaped Dangle Watch (Y2K): A watch reflecting the design trends of the early 2000s.
- Diamond Accent Watch (2007): A watch featuring genuine diamond accents.
- Marcasite Cuff Watch (2006 & Vintage): Watches adorned with marcasite, a form of pyrite, for added sparkle.
- Cuff Watches: Several cuff-style watches, often with crystal or rhinestone accents.
The variety of designs demonstrates Avon’s attempt to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. The inclusion of features like diamond accents and marcasite suggests a desire to offer higher-end options within their affordable jewelry range.
Gemological Properties (Based on Limited Sources)
Due to the limited scope of the provided sources, a detailed gemological analysis is not possible. However, we can glean some information about the materials used:
Quartz: Quartz is a silicon dioxide mineral with a Mohs hardness of 7. It is a durable and widely available gemstone, often colorless (rock crystal) but can also occur in various colors.
Zircon: Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral with a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7.5. Natural zircon occurs in various colors, including brown, red, and blue. The “zircon” used in the 1976 Avon set is explicitly identified as Austrian glass, indicating a simulated material.
The sources do not provide information on the clarity, cut, or carat weight of the gemstones used in Avon’s jewelry.
Care and Cleaning (Based on Limited Sources)
Given the materials used – base metals, glass, and quartz/zircon – the following care recommendations can be inferred:
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Clean with a mild soap and water solution.
- Protect from scratches: Store jewelry separately to prevent scratching.
- Regular cleaning: Clean regularly to maintain shine.
- Battery Replacement: For watches, ensure regular battery replacement to maintain functionality.
Market Value and Collectibility
The sources indicate that Avon jewelry is available on resale markets like eBay and Poshmark. Prices vary depending on the age, condition, and rarity of the piece. Vintage Avon jewelry, particularly birthstone sets and watches with unique designs, can be collectible. The sources show price ranges from under $10 to over $100 for individual pieces, with some items listed at higher values due to their perceived collectibility or unique features.
Conclusion
The provided sources offer a glimpse into Avon’s history of producing birthstone-themed jewelry, primarily utilizing quartz and zircon (and zircon imitations). While the information is limited, it reveals Avon’s participation in the popular birthstone tradition and its commitment to offering affordable and fashionable jewelry to a broad consumer base. The variety of watch designs and materials demonstrates the company’s adaptability to changing trends. The enduring presence of Avon jewelry on resale markets suggests a lasting appeal and a degree of collectibility among vintage jewelry enthusiasts. The sources highlight the company’s role in making gemstone-inspired jewelry accessible to a wide audience, even if the gemstones themselves were often simulated materials.