The 1993 Avon Teddy Bear Birthstone Pendants represent a charming and nostalgic line of jewelry, offering a personalized touch with each month’s corresponding birthstone. These pendants, featuring a gold-toned teddy bear design, were popular items sold through Avon catalogs, and remain collectible vintage pieces today. The pendants consist of a teddy bear holding three clear crystal “balloons” and a specific birthstone for each month, suspended from a 16-inch chain. This article will detail the available information regarding these pendants, including their design, materials, and historical context as presented in available sources.
History and Lore
These pendants originated as part of a larger collection of teddy bear-themed jewelry released by Avon in 1993. The pendants were sold with accompanying teddy bear-shaped boxes, designed to protect and present the jewelry. The boxes themselves are flocked and feature a white bow tie and textured paw prints, adding to the collectible appeal of the set. The pendants were marketed as birthstone jewelry, aligning with the tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year.
The pendants represent a specific moment in jewelry fashion, capitalizing on the enduring popularity of teddy bears and the personalized gift-giving trend of birthstone jewelry. While the tradition of birthstone jewelry dates back centuries, these pendants offer a distinctly 1990s aesthetic. The pendants were intended as gifts, and the packaging was designed to enhance the presentation.
Geological Formation and Sources
The birthstones featured in the Avon pendants are not described in detail regarding their geological origins in the provided sources. However, the January pendant specifically features a garnet zircon. Garnets are a group of silicate minerals that have been used in jewelry for thousands of years. Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral, also commonly used as a gemstone. The sources do not provide information on the specific mining locations of these stones used in the Avon pendants.
Gemological Properties
The pendants themselves are constructed from a gold-toned alloy and feature crystal and gemstone accents. The alloy is electroplated, and is not composed of pure silver or gold, a detail important for individuals with metal sensitivities. The birthstones are relatively small and are set into the teddy bear’s belly.
The January pendant features a garnet zircon, while the March pendant features an aquamarine birthstone. The sources do not provide details on the cut, clarity, or carat weight of these stones. The chain accompanying the pendant is 16 inches in length. The chain width is approximately 0.4 cm, and can be adjusted between 17 and 20 cm in length. The chain is also constructed from alloy.
A summary of the materials is provided below:
| Component | Material |
|---|---|
| Pendant | Gold-toned Alloy |
| “Balloons” | Clear Crystal |
| Birthstone (Jan) | Garnet Zircon |
| Birthstone (Mar) | Aquamarine |
| Chain | Alloy |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The provided sources do not detail any specific symbolism or metaphysical beliefs associated with the Avon Teddy Bear Birthstone Pendants themselves. However, the use of birthstones inherently carries symbolic meaning. Garnets, traditionally associated with January, are often linked to passion, energy, and vitality. Aquamarine, the birthstone for March, is often associated with tranquility, clarity, and courage. The teddy bear itself is a symbol of comfort, innocence, and affection. Combining these elements, the pendants likely appealed to buyers seeking a sentimental and personalized gift.
Care and Cleaning
Due to the alloy construction and the presence of rhinestones, specific care instructions are recommended. The sources advise against exposing the jewelry to sweat, rain, sea water, perfume, and cosmetics. It is also recommended to remove the jewelry during activities such as sports and housework to prevent damage.
For long-term storage, the jewelry should be wiped with a dry cloth and placed in a sealed bag to prevent contact with air, particularly important in humid climates. The necklace and pendant should be stored separately to avoid scratching. The sources also recommend careful packaging for shipping to prevent damage during transit. The use of bubble wrap and a protective box is advised.
The sources also note that the metal is electroplated and not pure silver or gold, and individuals prone to allergies should consider this before purchasing.
Vintage Considerations
The pendants are described as vintage items, originating from 1993 and around 2003. As such, they are not brand new and may exhibit minor flaws or traces of wear. Potential buyers are advised to carefully examine the photographs and product descriptions before making a purchase, as returns, refunds, or exchanges are not accepted. The sources emphasize that online shopping carries the risk of color difference between the screen and the actual product.
The pendants are marketed towards collectors of vintage jewelry and those seeking a nostalgic piece from the 1990s. The sources suggest that if the pendants are intended as a gift, the recipient should be aware of their vintage nature and potential imperfections.
Purchase Instructions and Condition
The sources emphasize the importance of carefully reviewing product photos and descriptions before purchasing. The pendants are sold “as is,” with any existing scratches or imperfections noted in the product description. The sources also state that the photographs are enlarged, and buyers should pay attention to the size indications. The pendants are described as being in good condition, with the buckle switch functioning normally. The chain length is adjustable, with an extension of approximately 3 cm.
Sources
- Checkmate - Avon Teddy Bear Pendant
- Poshmark - Avon Teddy Bear Pendant (January)
- Pinkoi - Avon Teddy Bear Pendant
Conclusion
The Avon Teddy Bear Birthstone Pendants from 1993 represent a charming and collectible piece of jewelry history. While the provided sources offer limited detail regarding the geological origins of the gemstones, they provide valuable insight into the design, materials, and historical context of these pendants. These pendants appeal to collectors of vintage jewelry and those seeking a nostalgic reminder of the 1990s. Their personalized nature, combined with the enduring appeal of teddy bears and birthstones, makes them a unique and sentimental piece of jewelry.