The Bold design and Timeless Elegance of Eisenberg Vintage Costume Jewellery
In the realm of costume jewellery, few names evoke the elegance, craftsmanship, and historical richness of Eisenberg. Founded in the early 20th century, Eisenberg jewellery has become synonymous with high-quality designs and meticulous attention to detail. Today, collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike continue to celebrate Eisenberg's legacy, making vintage pieces highly sought after.
The Origins of Eisenberg Jewellery
The story of Eisenberg Jewellery begins with Jonas Eisenberg, who emigrated from Austria to the United States. Initially, Jonas Eisenberg's business focused on producing high-end women's clothing. However, it was the ornate buttons and brooches used to complement his dresses that caught the attention of his clientele. Recognising the potential of these accessories, Eisenberg pivoted to focus on jewellery, officially founding Eisenberg & Sons in Chicago in 1914.
The Rise of Eisenberg: 1930s - 1950s
Eisenberg's transition to jewellery design was met with immediate success. By the 1930s, the brand was renowned for its designs and the high-quality rhinestones that often rivalled genuine gemstones. The Great Depression posed a challenge, yet Eisenberg's jewellery became a symbol of accessible luxury during tough economic times.
The period from the 1930s to the 1950s is considered the golden age of Eisenberg jewellery. During this time, Eisenberg pieces were characterised by bold, theatrical designs that embodied the glamour of Hollywood's golden era. The brand produced brooches, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces adorned with colourful rhinestones, faux pearls, and enamel.
Signature Styles and Materials
Eisenberg jewellery is known for its flashy style, large stones and bold design:
Rhinestones and Crystals: Eisenberg Original pieces often featured high-quality, large, Austrian rhinestones and crystals, which were hand-set into heavy metalwork. Later pieces still made use of sparkly crystals but the metal was more finely plated.
Sterling Silver and Pot Metal: During the 1940s, due to wartime metal shortages, Eisenberg used sterling silver and pot metal for their jewelry settings. Pieces from this era are highly valued by collectors for their historical significance and unique charm.
Christmas trees: Christmas tree brooches hold a special place in the hearts of collectors. These festive pieces are characterised by their vibrant use of rhinestones and crystals. They are more than just holiday accessories; they are treasured heirlooms that capture the spirit of the season.
Eisenberg Ice: Introduced in the 1940s, the Eisenberg Ice line became famous for its sparkling, icy-looking rhinestone pieces. This line remains one of the most iconic aspects of the brand.
Eisenberg Originals: These were made in the 1930s and 1940s, often taking the form of heavy fur clips in bright colours or clear crystlas set in thick pot metal, lightly plated.
Markings and Identification
Identifying genuine Eisenberg jewellery involves looking for specific markings.
They signed their early pieces 'Eisenberg Original'. These were produced between the mid 1930s and the mid 1940s. During the war years and up to 1948 they also produced some pieces in silver, which were marked 'Eisenberg Sterling'.
The most common Eisenberg Original stamp
Other genuine Eisenberg Orginal stamps, the E employed when there wasn't space for the full stamp
Dating other pieces can be confusing because they introduced the 'Eisenberg Ice' range in the late 1940s, used it until approximately 1952, then stopped marking most pieces. After 1970 they again began to mark pieces with 'Eisenberg Ice'.
Collectibility and Market Value
Eisenberg's vintage jewellery pieces are highly collectible and can fetch significant prices on the market. Factors influencing the value include:
Condition: Pristine condition with original stones and minimal wear increases value.
Rarity: Eisenberg Original pieces or sterling silver pieces are particularly desirable.
Design: Colourful and intricate designs command higher prices.
Eisenberg vintage costume jewellery stands as a testament to timeless beauty and exceptional craftsmanship. Cherished by modern collectors, each piece tells a story of elegance and history. For those passionate about vintage fashion, Eisenberg offers a sparkling glimpse into a bygone era of glamour and sophistication.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or a new enthusiast, delving into the world of Eisenberg jewellery is a journey through one of the most illustrious chapters of costume jewellery history.