AVON, one of the largest and oldest jewelry companies, has manufactured a vast array of jewelry styles – pendants, stones, rings, earrings, necklaces, and brooches – since the 1960s, all possessing value in today’s market. While the provided sources do not focus on a specific birthstone or gemstone, they offer a comprehensive overview of AVON jewelry, its history, how to identify and date pieces, and assess their value. This article will delve into the world of vintage AVON jewelry, providing a collector’s guide to understanding its history, markings, materials, and the factors influencing its worth.
The History of AVON Jewelry
Founded in 1886, AVON initially focused on toiletries and perfumes. It wasn’t until 1963 that the company introduced its first collection of jewelry, beginning with precious stones and pendants. The line expanded significantly in 1970 to include necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, and brooches. During the 1960s and 70s, AVON jewelry was often given as gifts, contributing to its widespread circulation and enduring presence in the vintage market. The company’s success stemmed from offering affordable, fashionable jewelry through its direct-selling model, making it accessible to a broad customer base.
Collaboration and Artistic Influence
AVON didn’t solely rely on in-house designs. The company collaborated with numerous artists and costume jewelry companies to create diverse collections. Notable collaborators include Kenneth Jay Lane (K.J.L), Jose and Maria Barrera (Barrera for AVON), Coreen Simpson (identified by a logo depicting a woman’s face), Louis Féraud (Louis Féraud Paris), and Elizabeth Taylor (known for her “White Diamonds” collection). AVON also partnered with established costume jewelry companies such as Ungaro, Swarovski, Centennial, Trifari, and Celine Dion, further broadening its design range and appeal.
Identifying and Dating AVON Jewelry
Determining the age and authenticity of AVON jewelry involves careful examination of markings, materials, and color tones.
Examining the Markings
Markings are crucial for identifying AVON jewelry and often indicate collaborations with other companies or artists. Most marked AVON jewelry was likely produced from 1970 onwards. The absence of markings suggests the piece may date back to the earlier period of AVON jewelry production, between 1963 and 1970, when jewelry was frequently given as gifts and less emphasis was placed on branding. The AVON brand name is typically stamped on discrete areas of the jewelry. Some pieces feature the brand name enclosed in an oval. Specific markings like “925” indicate sterling silver, confirming the quality of the metal. Company codes such as “sh/on/sp/hs” were used for inventory purposes and may also denote special occasions, with “HS” representing “Honor Society.” Markings like “s/s” denote Sterling Silver, and “RJ” stands for Registered Jeweler.
Material Analysis
The materials used in AVON jewelry provide clues about its age. Between 1963 and 1970, gemstones and fancy plastics like resin, lucite, and thermosets were commonly used. The introduction of diamonds and pearls coincided with the official sale of AVON jewelry, indicating a later production date.
Color and Tone
Color tones can also help determine the age of AVON jewelry. Gold tones, along with bright and pastel colors in rhinestones and gemstones, were prevalent in the earlier years of the AVON jewelry line.
Notable Vintage AVON Jewelry Pieces
While thousands of AVON jewelry pieces have been produced, certain items are particularly valuable and sought after by collectors. The provided sources highlight a few examples:
- Black Woman Cameo Necklace & Earrings (1994): Priced at $150, this piece features a clothed strap, gold metal detailing, and a pendant, bearing Coreen Simpson’s logo.
- “Little chick in the egg” Brooch (1980s): A uniquely designed and rare brooch, valued at $45.
- Gold-tone Bell flowers Clip-on Earrings: These rare earrings, with a unique bell-flower design, are valued between $45 and $50.
- Vintage Gold-tone Crystal Pendant Necklace: Priced at $60.
- Vintage Sterling Silver Starburst Pin Brooch: Valued at $100.
- Golden Vintage Collector Bottle Perfume (1960-1970): Priced at $45, this item showcases the company’s origins in toiletries and perfumes.
- White Diamonds Faux Pearl Brooch Pin: Designed by Elizabeth Taylor, this brooch, featuring a bow and pearl tear-drop pendant, is valued between $100 and $130.
- Elizabeth Taylor’s Royal Jewels Set: A more elaborate set including a necklace, pendant, and earrings, priced between $350 and $400.
- Avon Gold Tone & Beaded Pendant: Designed by Shaill Jhaveri, this pendant, adorned with gemstones and pearls, is valued between $60 and $70.
- AVON ‘Parisienne Bloom’ Earrings: Designed by Ungaro, these rare hook wire earrings with a tear-drop stone and floral design are priced at $50.
Condition and Value Considerations
The condition of vintage AVON jewelry significantly impacts its value. As with all antique jewelry, pieces will inevitably show signs of wear and age, including fading, discoloration, or rust spots. It’s important to acknowledge that minor imperfections are common in vintage jewelry and should be considered when assessing its worth. The uniqueness of a design, the artist’s mark, and the rarity of the piece in circulation also contribute to its value.
Selling AVON Jewelry
Several avenues are available for selling vintage AVON jewelry. Local jewelers can provide appraisals and potentially purchase the pieces. Pawn shops offer another option, though they typically offer lower prices. Online platforms, such as eBay, are popular for selling vintage jewelry to a wider audience. Auction houses are suitable for high-value items, potentially fetching thousands of dollars.
Care and Cleaning
The sources indicate that the metal used in AVON jewelry, particularly pieces from the 1940s to 1980s, is prone to fading, discoloration, or rust. Gentle cleaning with appropriate jewelry cleaning solutions is recommended, but harsh chemicals should be avoided. The sources emphasize that the jewelry should not be altered, such as converting clip-on earrings to pin-type, to maintain its vintage integrity.
Conclusion
Vintage AVON jewelry represents a fascinating chapter in the history of costume jewelry. From its humble beginnings as a companion to the company’s toiletries and perfumes to its collaborations with renowned artists and designers, AVON jewelry has left a lasting mark on the fashion world. Understanding the history, markings, materials, and condition of these pieces is essential for collectors and enthusiasts alike. While the provided sources do not focus on a specific birthstone, they offer a valuable resource for navigating the world of vintage AVON jewelry and appreciating its enduring appeal.