Iconic Vintage Jewelry

The Story of Jewelry & Iconic Vintage Brands 💎 A Sparkling History

Jewelry has been a part of human history for over 100,000 years- first as symbols of status and spirituality, and later as expressions of love, fashion, and personal identity. Early pieces were made of shells, bones, and stones, evolving into the metalwork and gemstone pieces we know and love today.

By the time of ancient civilizations like Egypt and Mesopotamia, jewelry had become highly stylized. The Egyptians were among the first to craft elaborate gold necklaces and bejeweled rings. In Ancient Rome, gemstones were worn as both amulets and status symbols. Over the centuries, European royalty popularized the use of diamonds, rubies, and sapphires- setting the tone for what would become modern fine jewelry.

But not all vintage jewelry is about precious stones. In the 20th century, especially during the Art Deco, Mid-Century, and Costume Jewelry eras, innovation and accessibility took center stage. Materials like Bakelite, rhinestones, lucite, and enamel turned everyday jewelry into affordable, expressive works of art, and many of these pieces are now highly collectible.

✨ Popular Vintage Jewelry Brands to Know:

1. Trifari
Founded in the 1920s, Trifari is famous for its timeless, elegant costume pieces. Designed by Alfred Philippe (formerly of Cartier), Trifari jewelry often mimicked high-end designs using quality materials and techniques.

2. Coro
Coro produced a wide variety of affordable, stylish pieces from the 1930s through the 1970s. Known for whimsical brooches and matching sets, Coro is one of the most collected costume jewelry brands today.

3. Weiss
Founded in 1942, Weiss is known for dazzling rhinestone pieces with incredible sparkle. Their clear and colored stones remain favorites among collectors.

4. Sarah Coventry
Popular in the 1950s–70s, this brand was sold through home jewelry parties, offering stylish and affordable designs that were accessible to many.

5. Miriam Haskell
Synonymous with elegance and intricate detail, Haskell’s handmade pieces featured faux pearls, beads, and filigree metalwork, and were worn by Hollywood stars and socialites.

6. Monet
Known for high-quality plating and sleek, modern designs, Monet offered luxury-inspired costume jewelry that was durable, affordable, and fashion-forward.

7. Napier
Napier jewelry, especially from the 1950s–60s, featured bold, stylish designs ranging from chunky bracelets to textured earrings, making it a favorite of vintage fashion lovers.

8. Eisenberg
Originally a clothing company, Eisenberg’s jewelry became so popular in the 1930s–40s that it overshadowed their garments. Their rhinestone brooches are especially sought after.

An archeological jewelry find and a flashback through time:

This necklace is among the oldest jewelry pieces in the world. It dates the late 4,000, early 3,000 B.C. It is a part of the Cucuteni-Trypillia culture- predecessors of the Dacian people and respectively known in modern times as Romanians. The necklace was made from animal teeth, bones, and shells.

Bringing you up-to-speed from ancient to vintage:

💍 Visit Dishfunctional for a rotating selection of timeless and classic vintage and estate jewelry. Remember us when you have a function and need a little something to add to your dress or outfit. As most of you know, we sell jewelry for all occasions and for daily wear.

📿The jewelry designers listed are just a few included in our collection. Whether collecting for style, sentiment, or history, vintage jewelry maintains a refinement that never fades over time.

Stay Connected:

🔘Follow us on social media for more vintage inspiration and updates on new arrivals.

🗣️Share your jewelry photos or videos with us using the hashtag #DishfunctionalBling for a chance to be featured on our page!

#VintageJewelry #JewelryHistory #Trifari #Weiss #MiriamHaskell #MonetJewelry #Coro #Napier #Eisenberg #SarahCoventry #JewelryCollectors #DishfunctionalFinds #ShopVintage #SparkleAndStyle