The available sources detail a collection of vintage birthstone jewelry produced by Avon, primarily in the 1970s. This jewelry, encompassing necklaces and pendant earring sets, utilized simulated gemstones – specifically, Austrian glass stones – set in gold-tone metal. The focus of the available information centers on the historical context of these pieces as collectible items, rather than a deep dive into the gemological properties of the stones themselves. This article will explore the history of these Avon birthstone pieces, their materials, care instructions, and their place within the vintage jewelry market.
A Nostalgic Offering from Avon
Avon, a company well-known for its direct-selling model, introduced birthstone jewelry as part of its product line in the mid-1970s. The sources highlight a “Birthstone Teardrop Pendant & Earring Set” released in 1976, featuring a blue zircon-colored Austrian glass stone. Another piece detailed is a “Birthstone Cross Necklace” from 2003, featuring a simulated garnet. These pieces represent a period when affordable, fashionable jewelry was readily accessible through Avon’s network of representatives. The jewelry was marketed as a way to personalize gifts and celebrate birthdays, capitalizing on the established tradition of birthstone symbolism.
The pieces are described as being in excellent condition, often including their original packaging, adding to their appeal for collectors. The availability of these items today is limited, with the description of one product noting it is “rare to see a Stone series with a cross as the theme.” This rarity contributes to their value within the vintage jewelry market. The products are described as “old product in stock, brand new and unused,” indicating they were part of Avon’s inventory that remained unsold for an extended period.
Materials and Craftsmanship
The Avon birthstone jewelry detailed in the sources is constructed from gold-tone metal and Austrian glass stones. The pendant and earring set from 1976 features a gold-tone teardrop setting for the zircon-colored glass stone, with matching clip-on earrings. The cross necklace utilizes a gold-tone cross pendant measuring 3x1.8 cm, suspended from a 40 cm chain with a 7 cm extension.
The sources indicate the jewelry is not handmade, but rather mass-produced. The materials used reflect Avon’s commitment to providing affordable jewelry options. Austrian glass stones were a popular choice for simulating more expensive gemstones, offering a similar aesthetic at a fraction of the cost. The use of gold-tone metal further contributed to the affordability of these pieces. The jewelry is marked with the Avon copyright symbol on the earring clips, indicating the manufacturer.
Geographic Origins and Production
One source notes that the product is “Made in Australia.” However, this appears to be a specific listing detail and may not apply to all Avon birthstone jewelry. Avon operated globally, and its production locations likely varied over time. The primary distribution network for these pieces was through Avon representatives in the United States, as evidenced by the pricing in US dollars and the company’s presence in the American market.
Care and Preservation
Due to the age of the jewelry and the materials used, specific care instructions are provided. The sources recommend storing the jewelry in a zipper bag after use to protect it from scratches and tarnishing. It is also advised to avoid wearing the jewelry during showering, swimming, or other water activities, as this can damage the metal and the simulated stones. Proper care will help to prolong the life of these vintage pieces. The sources emphasize that while new in stock, antique items will age over time, and high-standard buyers should carefully review the photos before purchasing.
The Vintage Market and Collectibility
The Avon birthstone jewelry described in the sources has found a niche within the vintage jewelry market. The pieces are appealing to collectors for several reasons: their nostalgic value, their association with a well-known brand, and their affordability. The 1976 pendant and earring set, for example, is listed at a price of $20.00 USD. The limited availability of these items also contributes to their collectibility.
The sources indicate a level of interest in these pieces, with one product having 2.634 views, 1 sold, and 20 saved items on Pinkoi. This suggests a demand for vintage Avon jewelry among online shoppers. The jewelry is categorized as “Antique and Vintage” and is described as having “Unique Features” and being “Eco-Friendly” and “Pinkoi Exclusive.”
Symbolism and Birthstones – A Limited Perspective
The sources do not delve deeply into the symbolism associated with specific birthstones. However, the 1976 pendant and earring set features a zircon-colored stone, representing the December birthstone. The broader tradition of birthstone symbolism, assigning specific gemstones to each month of the year, dates back centuries. While the Avon jewelry utilizes simulated stones, the intention was to provide an affordable way for individuals to connect with this tradition. The cross necklace, representing January with a simulated garnet, also aligns with this practice.
Limitations of Available Information
The provided sources offer a limited scope of information. They primarily focus on specific Avon birthstone jewelry pieces available for sale, rather than providing a comprehensive overview of the company’s entire birthstone collection or the broader history of birthstone jewelry. There is no information on the specific types of Austrian glass used, the manufacturing processes employed, or the marketing strategies utilized by Avon. Furthermore, there is no gemological data regarding the simulated stones, such as refractive index or specific gravity. The sources do not provide details on the range of birthstones offered by Avon, or the duration of the birthstone jewelry line.
Conclusion
The Avon birthstone jewelry detailed in these sources represents a fascinating glimpse into the past. These vintage pieces, crafted from gold-tone metal and Austrian glass stones, offer a nostalgic connection to the 1970s and the era of direct-selling. While not comprised of genuine gemstones, they embody the tradition of birthstone symbolism and provide an affordable way to celebrate birthdays and personal connections. Their collectibility is driven by their rarity, their association with a well-known brand, and their appeal to vintage jewelry enthusiasts. The available information, while limited, highlights the enduring charm of these pieces and their place within the history of affordable fashion jewelry.