History of Staret Jewelry Company

The history of Staret Jewelry Company is rich with innovation, creativity, and a lasting impact on the world of jewelry. From its founding to its influence on modern trends, Staret Jewelry has left an indelible mark on the industry. This article explores the journey of Staret Jewelry Company, from its early beginnings to its legacy in today’s market.

The story of Staret Jewelry Company begins with its founding and the vision of its creators. The company’s signature designs set it apart from other jewelers and contributed to its success in the 20th century. However, World War II had a significant impact on the company’s trajectory, leading to a decline and eventual revival.

Despite challenges, Staret Jewelry Company continued to influence modern jewelry trends, leaving a legacy that still resonates today. Through this article, we will delve into the fascinating history and enduring relevance of Staret Jewelry Company.

The Founding of Staret Jewelry Company

Staret Jewelry Company was founded in the early 20th century by husband and wife, Nathan and Albert Steigman. The couple started their business in New York City, where they quickly gained recognition for their unique and innovative designs. Nathan and Albert were known for their creativity and attention to detail, which set them apart from other jewelry designers of their time.

The Early Years

The Steigmans initially began by creating handcrafted pieces of jewelry using high-quality materials such as rhinestones, glass, and metals. Their intricate designs and craftsmanship caught the eye of many fashion-forward individuals, leading to the rapid growth of their brand. Staret Jewelry Company soon became synonymous with elegance and sophistication in the world of fashion accessories.



Growth and Expansion

As the demand for Staret Jewelry grew, Nathan and Albert expanded their business operations, relocating to a larger studio to accommodate their increasing production needs. Their success was further amplified when they began collaborating with renowned fashion designers and stylists, solidifying their position as leaders in the jewelry industry. The company’s commitment to excellence and creativity led to widespread acclaim among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The Influence of Art Deco

During the 1920s and 1930s, Staret Jewelry Company embraced the Art Deco movement, incorporating geometric shapes, bold colors, and intricate patterns into their designs. This artistic period greatly influenced the signature style of Staret Jewelry, setting them apart as pioneers in modern jewelry aesthetics. The company’s dedication to innovation during this time laid the foundation for their lasting influence on modern jewelry trends.

Signature Designs of Staret Jewelry

Staret Jewelry Company was known for its unique and elegant signature designs that set it apart from other jewelry companies of its time. The company’s creative and innovative approach to jewelry design made it a standout in the industry, and its pieces were highly sought after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Art Deco Influence

One of the most notable signature designs of Staret Jewelry Company was the influence of the Art Deco movement. The company embraced the geometric shapes, bold colors, and intricate designs that characterized this artistic style, creating stunning pieces that captured the essence of the era. Staret’s use of materials such as rhinestones, enamel, and glass in Art Deco-inspired designs made its jewelry truly stand out.

Nature-Inspired Motifs

Staret Jewelry also incorporated nature-inspired motifs into its designs, reflecting the popular artistic themes of the time. This included floral and botanical elements, as well as depictions of animals and insects. These nature-inspired designs were executed with a level of craftsmanship that showcased the company’s dedication to detail and quality.

Innovative Use of Materials

Another hallmark of Staret Jewelry Company’s signature designs was its innovative use of materials. The company experimented with different gemstones, metals, and unconventional materials to create bold and striking pieces that were both stylish and unique. This creative approach to materials set Staret apart from other jewelry makers and contributed to its enduring legacy in the world of vintage jewelry.

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The history of Staret Jewelry Company is deeply intertwined with these signature designs, which continue to be celebrated for their timeless beauty and craftsmanship.

Popularity and Success of Staret Jewelry in the 20th Century

Staret Jewelry Company’s popularity and success in the 20th century can be attributed to its unique and innovative designs that captured the spirit of the time. Established in the 1930s, Staret quickly gained attention for its use of vibrant stones, intricate metalwork, and bold geometric shapes. The company’s pieces appealed to a wide audience and were embraced by celebrities, socialites, and fashion-forward individuals alike.

During the 1940s and 1950s, Staret Jewelry Company experienced significant growth and success. Its creations were featured in popular fashion magazines such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, further solidifying its reputation as a leading jewelry brand. The company’s use of high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship set it apart from other contemporary jewelry makers, leading to an increase in demand for its products.

One of the key factors contributing to Staret Jewelry Company’s success was its ability to adapt to changing trends while maintaining its distinctive aesthetic. As fashion evolved throughout the decades, so did Staret’s designs. From art deco-inspired pieces in the 1930s to nature-themed motifs in the 1950s, the company remained relevant by continually innovating while staying true to its creative vision.

Staret Jewelry Company’s Success FactorsKey Details
Innovative DesignsVibrant stones, intricate metalwork, bold geometric shapes
Growth and RecognitionFeatured in Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar; embraced by celebrities and socialites
AdaptabilityEvolved designs according to changing trends while maintaining original aesthetic

The Impact of World War II on Staret Jewelry Company

During the 1940s, the impact of World War II heavily influenced Staret Jewelry Company, as it did with many businesses at the time. The company faced numerous challenges due to wartime restrictions and rationing of materials. This led to a shift in their production and designs, as they had to adapt to the limited resources available to them.

Despite these challenges, Staret Jewelry Company managed to persevere through innovation and creativity. They began using alternative materials such as Lucite and pastes to create their signature designs, which were still highly sought after during this tumultuous period. This resourcefulness allowed Staret Jewelry Company to maintain its reputation for quality and distinctiveness, even amidst the constraints of wartime production.

The impact of World War II on Staret Jewelry Company also extended beyond just the physical materials used in their pieces. The demand for luxury items like jewelry decreased during the war, leading the company to explore new markets and distribution channels. This allowed them to reach a wider audience and establish a foundation for continued success in the post-war era.

Impact of WWII on Staret JewelryDetails
Materiel ConstraintsShifted production and designs towards alternative materials like Lucite and pastes.
Market AdaptationExplored new markets and distribution channels due to decreased demand for luxury items.

Decline and Revival of Staret Jewelry



After enjoying immense popularity and success in the early to mid-20th century, Staret Jewelry Company faced a decline in the latter half of the century. The company struggled to keep up with changing fashion trends and consumer preferences, leading to a decrease in demand for their signature designs. Additionally, economic challenges and increased competition from other jewelry brands further contributed to the decline of Staret Jewelry.

During this period, the once thriving company saw a significant decrease in production and sales, ultimately leading to its closure. However, despite its decline, the legacy of Staret Jewelry continued to inspire designers and collectors alike. The unique and innovative designs created by Staret during its prime remained highly sought after by vintage jewelry enthusiasts.

In recent years, there has been a revival of interest in the history of Staret Jewelry Company. Collectors have begun to appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry behind Staret’s iconic pieces, leading to an increased demand for vintage Staret jewelry.

This renewed interest has sparked a resurgence in the popularity of Staret Jewelry, with modern designers drawing inspiration from their classic designs. As a result, there has been a renewed appreciation for the lasting impact that Staret has had on modern jewelry trends.

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Staret Jewelry Company’s Influence on Modern Jewelry Trends

Staret Jewelry Company has left an undeniable mark on the world of jewelry, with its designs continuing to influence modern jewelry trends. The company’s unique and distinctive style has resonated with collectors, fashion enthusiasts, and jewelry designers alike, cementing its legacy in the industry.

Some key ways in which Staret Jewelry Company continues to influence modern jewelry trends include:

  • Art Deco Influence: Staret Jewelry Company was known for its bold and innovative Art Deco designs, which have had a lasting impact on contemporary jewelry. The striking geometric patterns, use of colorful gemstones, and mixed metal finishes seen in Staret pieces are often cited as inspiration for today’s designers.
  • Statement Pieces: Staret Jewelry was celebrated for its glamorous, statement-making pieces that exuded luxury and sophistication. This approach to creating bold and eye-catching jewelry continues to be popular in the modern era, with many designers drawing inspiration from Staret’s extravagant creations.
  • Timeless Elegance: Despite the passage of time, Staret Jewelry’s timeless elegance remains relevant today. The company’s focus on high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail serves as a reminder that classic designs never go out of style.

As we look at the history of Staret Jewelry Company, it becomes clear that their influence on modern jewelry trends is undeniable. From their Art Deco influence to their timeless elegance, the impact of Staret Jewelry can still be seen in contemporary jewelry design.

Legacy and Continued Relevance of Staret Jewelry Today

Staret Jewelry Company has left an indelible mark on the history of jewelry design and continues to be a source of inspiration for modern trends. Despite its decline in the mid-20th century, the legacy of Staret Jewelry lives on in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts. The company’s unique and innovative designs have stood the test of time, proving that their influence on modern jewelry trends is as relevant today as it was in the past.

One of the key factors contributing to the continued relevance of Staret Jewelry is its signature designs, which are still highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs. The company’s use of high-quality materials, intricate craftsmanship, and bold aesthetic choices set them apart from other jewelry manufacturers of their time, and these same attributes continue to captivate audiences today.

Furthermore, Staret Jewelry Company’s impact on modern jewelry trends cannot be understated. Many contemporary designers draw inspiration from Staret’s iconic pieces, incorporating elements such as bold colors, geometric shapes, and innovative use of materials into their own creations.

This enduring influence underscores the significance of Staret Jewelry in shaping the landscape of contemporary jewelry design. As we continue to celebrate and draw inspiration from this historic brand, it is clear that Staret Jewelry Company will forever hold a special place in the annals of jewelry history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Costume Jewelry Worth Anything?

Yes, costume jewelry can be worth something, especially if it is a rare or designer piece. While it may not have the same intrinsic value as fine jewelry, there are collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its unique style and history.

Who Was JJ Jonette?

JJ Jonette was a popular American costume jewelry company known for its whimsical and creative designs. Established in 1944, the company produced a wide range of collectible items, including brooches, pins, and earrings.

Is There a Market for Old Costume Jewelry?

There is indeed a market for old costume jewelry. Many people are interested in vintage and retro fashion, and old costume jewelry can add a unique touch to their outfits. Additionally, collectors often seek out specific brands or styles of vintage costume jewelry for their personal collections.