Vintage Sherman Costume Jewelry

The allure and sparkle of vintage Sherman jewelry has resulted in collectors all over the world searching out special pieces. Sherman Jewelry was made in Canada from the late 40´s to the early 80´s. The creativity and sparkle of the masterful designs by Gustave Sherman drew in the purchaser and today many vintage jewelry collectors buy only Sherman.


Sherman jewelry was and is known for its sparkle. The company used only the best quality Swarovski crystals. The most popular cut stones used in Sherman pieces are the long marquise and the navettes. Most Sherman pieces include one or both of these cut shapes. The stones were always prong-set, rather than glued. This speaks further of the quality of workmanship and design.


The underside plating was heavy and polished to a fine finish. The plating was either rhodium, gold-plated or japanned metal. The Sherman signature on the underside of each piece is unmistakable. The older pieces had a sweeping and slightly slanted S before the other letters.


The most sought after pieces by collectors are the big bold brooches, bracelets and necklaces in bright colors. Collectors love the aurora borealis pieces, but brooches with deep Siam reds are highly sought after. These pieces can fetch hundreds of dollars. In October, 2008, a three-piece set in Siam red sold for nearly $800 in an ebay auction. The bigger and bolder the piece, the more valuable. Sherman pieces with colored stones are collected more than those with clear stones.


If buying and collecting any vintage rhinestone costume jewelry, invest in rare pieces and learn as much as you can about the design company. Other things to consider are color and quality of design. These are the things that determine value.


Make a showy statement this winter and wear a big, bright and bold Sherman brooch on your dark winter coat. Sherman brooches sparkle like diamonds in the snow.