Hollycraft Jewelry: Glamorous Designs and Pastel Rhinestones
Hollycraft is known for its glamorous designs and use of a wide variety of rhinestones, especially those in pastel colors. Among vintage jewelry, Hollycraft pieces stand out, continuing to be loved by collectors. In this article, we will dive into the history and unique features of Hollycraft jewelry.
History of Hollycraft
Hollycraft was founded by Joseph Chorbajian. He immigrated from Turkey to the United States at the age of 17 in 1917, and in 1936, he established The Hollywood Jewelry Manufacturing Company. This jewelry manufacturing business later merged with his cousin Archie and friend Jack Hazard, leading to the rebranding of the company as Hollycraft in 1948. Hollycraft jewelry was produced from 902 Broadway, New York, and continued until the late 1960s. By 1972, the company was fully sold to another corporation.
Features of Hollycraft Jewelry
The designs of Hollycraft jewelry are often inspired by Victorian styles, with a distinctive use of pastel-colored rhinestones. This gives the jewelry a glamorous yet elegant appearance. Additionally, the metal is often gold-plated with an antique finish, creating a classic yet modern charm.
Hollycraft jewelry is also known for its intricate craftsmanship and delicate designs, making its beauty immediately apparent. In particular, Christmas brooches and vintage brooches are highly popular among collectors. The pastel rhinestone brooches are both eye-catching and graceful, making them perfect for any outfit.
Popular Hollycraft Jewelry Items
Among Hollycraft's jewelry, the following items are particularly popular:
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Christmas Brooches: Hollycraft's Christmas brooches often feature colorful rhinestones, especially in pastel colors. These pieces are in high demand as decorative items for the Christmas season.
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Pastel Rhinestone Pieces: Hollycraft jewelry features rhinestones in soft pastel colors such as pink, blue, green, and yellow. These vibrant and eye-catching pieces are particularly attractive to vintage jewelry collectors.
Hollycraft Jewelry Markings
Hollycraft jewelry always features a marking, which plays a crucial role in confirming its authenticity. The form of the marking and the manufacturing year allow collectors to identify the period and authenticity of the piece.
Main Markings
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Hollycraft Mark
This is the most common marking found on all Hollycraft jewelry. If you see this marking, it guarantees that the piece was made by Hollycraft. -
Hollycraft Corp Mark
Starting in the 1950s, some Hollycraft jewelry pieces were stamped with "Hollycraft Corp." This marking indicates that the piece was made after the company became incorporated. -
Manufacture Year Mark
From 1950 onward, Hollycraft began adding the year of manufacture to their markings. This allows for easy identification of the production year, providing a key clue for determining the vintage value and era of the jewelry.
Importance of the Markings
Markings are not only proof of authenticity but also serve as an essential factor in determining the production year of Hollycraft jewelry. For collectors and vintage jewelry enthusiasts, the accuracy of the marking significantly affects the value of the piece. Knowing the year of manufacture and verifying the proper marking can make a big difference in establishing the authenticity and worth of a Hollycraft item.
