Gerry’s, an American costume jewelery company, was founded in the early 1950s. From the beginning the founder decided to produce funny and inexpensive costume jewelry. The first brooches, created in enamel and painted metal, were made in the shape of animals with personality.

What does BSK mean on a brooch?

The company was founded in New York in 1948 and was in business until the mid 1980s. (I’ve seen one reference book listing the 1970s, but most seem to agree that they closed their doors in the mid 1980s. The letters BSK stand for the first initials of the three owners: Benny Steinberg, Slovitt and Kaslo.

What is the oldest brooch?

The oldest brooches date back to the Bronze Age, made with thorns and flint and later with metal. It wasn’t until the Roman-Byzantine period in the 3rd century that brooches took on a more decorative purpose – worn by men and women to fasten a scarf or shawl or accessorise an outfit.

When was Trifari made?

Trifari was established by Italian Gustavo Trifari, Leo Krussman and Carl Fishel in 1925. The company began by creating jewelry for actors in Hollywood, which raised the profile of the brand.

Does Trifari use real pearls?

Trifari Costume Jewelry is made of materials that differ from fine colored gemstones, old pawn Indian jewelry, valuable pearls, etc. Trifari pieces use an array of materials like rhinestones, coral, enamel, jade, and colored stones set in metal settings.

Are Gerry’s brooches rare?

In addition, among collectors are very popular brooches with the image of animals, birds, butterflies and flowers. Gerry’s was also famous for themed brooches, for example sport series – tennis rackets, bowling, etc., but they are particularly rare. The company ceased operations in 1996.

What do you get Gerry’s for Christmas?

Golden Bear from Gerry’s with a gift box and a poinsettia flower on the scarf. The brooch is made of alloy coated with a burnished gold, bear eyes made of red crystals, bear partially decorated with colored enamel.

When did Gerry’s creations start making jewelry?

Gerry’s costume jewellery (1950-1990) Company Gerry’s Creations, Inc. began producing jewellery in the 1950s. It was well known for Christmas brooches, as well as decorations in the form of animals. You can find Gerry’s jewelry of rather unusual designs, like the above brooch for Ten-pin bowling lovers.