Guide to Vintage Avon Jewelry

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If you are looking to add some vintage Avon jewelry to your collection, you have come to the right place. In this guide, you will learn about the history, designers, jewelry marks, materials used, and how Avon influenced the culture of jewelry design and marketing.

Avon may be best known for cosmetics and fragrances, but their jewelry, especially that offered from the mid-1970s to the late-1990s, is in great demand by collectors. Pieces created for special collections, such as those designed by Kenneth Jay Lane and Elizabeth Taylor, are hard to find and, therefore, quite valuable.

What is Vintage Avon Jewelry?

Vintage Avon jewelry refers to jewelry items produced by Avon Products, Inc. in past decades that have since become sought after by collectors or enthusiasts. Avon has been in operation for over a century, and over the years, it has released numerous jewelry collections featuring various styles, materials, and designs. Vintage Avon jewelry can include items from the mid-20th century up to more recent decades.

Table of Contents

• What is Vintage Avon Jewelry?
• History of Avon Jewelry
• Vintage Avon Jewelry Designers
• How Was Vintage Avon Jewelry Produced?
• What was the Cultural Impact of Avon Jewelry?
• Vintage Avon Jewelry Hallmarks
• Materials Used in Vintage Avon Jewelry
• Collectible Vintage Avon Jewelry 
• Is Avon Jewelry Worth Anything?
• Most Valuable Avon Jewelry
• Is Avon Jewelry Real Gold?
• Is Avon Jewelry Real Silver?
• Conclusion
• What do you Think?

History of Avon Jewelry

David H. McConnell founded the California Perfume Company in 1886 with an original and distinctly modern sales plan: ladies going door-to-door selling fragrances and toiletries directly to ladies. Women had the opportunity to establish their own businesses! By the turn of the century, there were 5,000 much admired “Avon Ladies.” Thirty years later, there were 25,000. In 1939, the company became “Avon Products, Inc.” and expanded its product lines, including skin care, talcum powder, and vanity sets.

Avon jewelry began in 1963, initially as a free gift for purchasing a particular product or as a premium for buying a certain number of products. The jewelry, characterized by brilliant stones, filigree, and gold leaf, looked like fine jewelry and was wildly popular. The demand resulted in Avon’s first collection being available for customers in 1970. The collection included necklaces, pendants, rings, and brooches that held perfume, solid or liquid, a status symbol for the ladies of the 1970s.

By 1975, Avon was the world’s largest costume jewelry producer—for men and women. Jewelry representing owls and other animals was popular then, as were cameos, bangles, Christmas and Halloween designs, and the ever-romantic hearts. By the 1980s, Avon’s reputation for offering high-quality yet affordable costume jewelry began to attract notable designers to the line.

Today, after a complicated series of mergers and acquisitions, Avon is an international conglomerate with more than $10 billion in sales. In 2020, it began its new campaign, “Watch Me Now,” and introduced a whole new logo.

Vintage Avon Jewelry Designers

Vintage Avon jewelry featured designs from various talented designers over the years. Some notable designers who have collaborated with Avon to create jewelry collections include:

Jose and Maria Barrera: Jose and Maria Barrera collaborated with Avon in the late 1980s-early1990s. Their pieces are some of the most collectible of Avon jewelry. The bold yet often delicate designs translated well to the Avon brand. Collectors will find that vintage Avon Barrera jewelry is worth two to three times the original price.

Trifari: Trifari, a well-known American jewelry company, partnered with Avon to produce jewelry collections. Trifari is celebrated for its high-quality costume jewelry, and its collaboration with Avon brought its elegant designs to a broader audience through Avon’s direct-selling model. Trifari’s jewelry for Avon often featured classic and timeless designs, incorporating elements such as faux pearls, rhinestones, and intricate metalwork. These pieces were typically offered as part of Avon’s catalog or through its network of representatives.

Elizabeth Taylor designed jewelry for Avon from 1993 to 1997. It was the most popular and the most expensive. Her designs are ornately detailed, luxurious, and often indistinguishable from fine jewelry. Many pieces were inspired by her films, such as Cleopatra and The Taming of the Shrew. One showpiece, in particular, was the replica of the Shah Jenah necklace gifted to her by Richard Burton. ET jewelry was glamorously wrapped in violet, the color of ET’s eyes. 

Celine Dion: In 1998, Celine Dion worked with Avon to offer a “My Heart Will Go On” necklace based on the jewel Rose wore in the movie Titanic.

Smithsonian Institution: Avon collaborated with the Smithsonian Institution to produce a line of jewelry inspired by the institution’s vast collections of art, history, and culture. The partnership aimed to create jewelry pieces that celebrated the rich heritage and diversity of the Smithsonian’s holdings while making them accessible to a wider audience through Avon’s direct-selling model.

Kenneth Jay Lane: Kenneth Jay Lane’s costume jewelry was in demand by Hollywood celebrities, socialites, and royalty. His designs were fun yet sophisticated, and Avon carried his collections longer than any other of their designers. KJL for Avon pieces commanded a higher price than the “ordinary” Avon jewelry, and the same is true today for vintage collectibles.

Coreen Simpson: In 1994, Coreen partnered with the Avon Corporation to create exclusive designs for their African-American market, the Coreen Simpson Regal Beauty Collection.

Celia Sebiri: The collections she designed for Avon in 1986 featured semi-precious stones and sterling silver.

Louis Féraud: Féraud designed fragrances and jewelry distributed by Avon representatives during the 1980s.

Paula Abdul: The singer, dancer, and choreographer collaborated with Avon in the early 2000s to launch the Paula Abdul Jewelry Collection, featuring bold and statement-making pieces inspired by her glamorous style. The “Forever Selected by Paula Abdul” line was a collection of jewelry and accessories launched by Avon in collaboration with Paula Abdul, the singer, dancer, and choreographer. This collection was introduced in the early 2000s and featured a range of pieces inspired by Abdul’s glamorous style and personality.

How Was Vintage Avon Jewelry Produced?

Here’s an overview of how vintage Avon jewelry was typically produced:

• Design: Avon’s jewelry design process began with creating design concepts by in-house designers or through collaborations with external designers and artisans. Current fashion trends, market demand, and consumer preferences influenced these designs. Avon’s design team would sketch and prototype jewelry pieces, experimenting with materials, colors, and styles to create unique and appealing collections.
• Manufacturing: Once the design concepts were finalized, Avon outsourced its jewelry manufacturing to various production facilities, both domestically and internationally. These facilities were responsible for sourcing materials, fabricating components, and assembling the finished jewelry pieces according to Avon’s specifications. Manufacturing techniques used in vintage Avon jewelry production included casting, molding, stamping, and hand assembly.
• Quality Control: Avon maintained strict quality control standards to ensure its jewelry met the company’s quality and safety requirements. Quality control inspections were conducted throughout manufacturing to monitor for defects, flaws, or inconsistencies in materials, construction, and finish. Avon’s commitment to quality control helped maintain the reputation of its jewelry as affordable yet well-crafted pieces.
• Packaging: Once the jewelry pieces were manufactured and inspected, they were packaged for distribution. Avon provided branded packaging materials, including boxes, pouches, or display cards featuring the Avon logo or name. Packaging not only protected the jewelry during transit but also served as a marketing tool to enhance the product’s perceived value.
• Distribution: Avon’s jewelry was primarily sold through its direct-selling model, with representatives known as “Avon Ladies” or “Avon Representatives” showcasing products to customers in their communities. Additionally, Avon distributed its jewelry through catalogs, brochures, and promotional events. Customers could place orders directly with Avon representatives, who would then process and fulfill orders through Avon’s distribution network.

What was the Cultural Impact of Avon Jewelry?

The cultural impact of Avon jewelry has been significant, influencing fashion trends, empowering women, and shaping the direct-selling industry. Here are some key aspects of Avon jewelry’s cultural impact:

• Accessible Fashion: Avon jewelry made fashion accessible to women of all backgrounds and income levels. Avon brought stylish and affordable jewelry directly to consumers’ doorsteps through its direct-selling model, democratizing access to fashion and self-expression.
• Empowerment of Women: Avon played a pioneering role in empowering women as entrepreneurs through its network of Avon Representatives. By providing opportunities for women to earn income by selling Avon jewelry and other products, the company contributed to economic empowerment and financial independence for millions of women worldwide.
• Expression of Personal Style: Avon jewelry allowed women to express their personal style and individuality. With a diverse range of designs, from classic and elegant to bold and trendy, Avon jewelry offered something for everyone, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
• Community Building: Avon’s direct-selling model fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among its representatives and customers. Through jewelry parties, events, and social gatherings, women connected with one another, shared fashion tips, and built supportive networks, strengthening bonds and friendships.
• Trendsetting and Influence: Avon jewelry often reflected and influenced prevailing fashion trends of the time. Through collaborations with designers, celebrities, and influencers, Avon introduced innovative designs and styles to its collections, shaping how women accessorized and adorned themselves.
• Philanthropy and Social Impact: Avon’s commitment to social responsibility extended beyond business to include philanthropic efforts focused on women’s health, empowerment, and well-being. Initiatives such as the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade and the Avon Foundation for Women raised awareness and funding for important causes, positively impacting communities worldwide.

Vintage Avon Jewelry Hallmarks

Some initials are merely an internal company code for who manufactured the piece.

Identified initials are: SH, MR, LYK, BW, WN, SP

© AVON

K.J.L. for AVON (Kenneth Jay Lane)

Barrera for AVON (Jose and Maria Barrera)

Large script E within an oval (Elizabeth Taylor)

Smithsonian Avon  

• Celia Sebiri for Avon – 1987
• Shaill Jhevari for Avon – 1993 to 1994
• Coreen Simpson for Avon – 1994 to 1998.
• Billy D. Williams for Avon
• Trifari designed and made the 1986 Centennial Jewelry for Avon

Please note that a Canadian company, Avon of Belleville, made costume jewelry between 1945 and 1971. Those pieces have no connection to “our” Avon.

Here is a link to see all of the Avon marks.

Materials Used in Vintage Avon Jewelry

Vintage Avon jewelry featured a wide range of materials, depending on the specific design and era in which it was produced. Some common materials used in vintage Avon jewelry include:

• Metals: Avon jewelry often featured base metals such as gold-tone or silver-tone alloys, as well as brass, pewter, or copper. These metals were frequently plated with gold or silver finishes to give the appearance of higher value.
• Rhinestones: Rhinestones were commonly used in vintage Avon jewelry to add sparkle and mimic the look of gemstones. These were typically made from glass or acrylic and came in various colors and sizes.
• Faux Pearls: Avon frequently incorporated faux pearls into their jewelry designs, offering an affordable alternative to genuine pearls. These pearls were typically made from glass or plastic and often featured in necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
• Enamel: Enamel detailing was a popular decorative element in vintage Avon jewelry. It added color and dimension to pieces, with enamel being applied to metal surfaces in various designs and patterns.
• Lucite: Lucite, a type of acrylic resin, was sometimes used in vintage Avon jewelry to create lightweight and colorful pieces. It could be molded into various shapes and incorporated into earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
• Resin: Resin was another material commonly used in vintage Avon jewelry to create durable and lightweight pieces. It could be molded, dyed, or carved to achieve different textures and designs.
• Glass: Avon occasionally utilized glass beads or cabochons in their jewelry designs to add visual interest and texture. These glass components came in various colors, shapes, and finishes.
• Plastic: Avon often used various types of plastic, including acrylic, celluloid, or Bakelite, to create lightweight and colorful jewelry pieces. Plastic beads, charms, and pendants were commonly featured in vintage Avon designs.
• Wood: Wooden beads, pendants, and accents were occasionally used in vintage Avon jewelry to add a natural and rustic touch to designs. Wood was often incorporated alongside other materials to create contrast and texture.
• Shell: Avon sometimes used shell components, such as mother-of-pearl or abalone, in their jewelry designs to evoke a beachy or nautical vibe. Shell beads, cabochons, and inlays were popular in vintage Avon pieces.
• Fabric: Fabric or textile elements, such as ribbons, fabric-covered beads, or fabric-wrapped cords, were occasionally used in vintage Avon jewelry to add softness and texture to designs. These fabric accents complemented metal and stone components in multi-material pieces.
• Ceramic: Avon occasionally incorporated ceramic beads, pendants, or cabochons into their jewelry designs to add a handmade and artisanal feel. Ceramic elements could be glazed or painted to achieve different colors and patterns.
• Semi-Precious Stones: While Avon’s jewelry primarily featured simulated or imitation gemstones, some vintage pieces may include genuine semi-precious stones such as turquoise, jade, agate, or amethyst as accent stones or focal points in designs.
• Leather: Leather cords, straps, or accents were occasionally used in vintage Avon jewelry, especially in designs with a bohemian or Western-inspired aesthetic. Leather added a rugged and earthy element to the pieces.

Collectible Vintage Avon Jewelry

Determining the “most collectible” vintage Avon jewelry can be subjective and dependent on various factors, including rarity, design appeal, historical significance, and condition. However, some vintage Avon jewelry pieces are often sought after by collectors due to their popularity, distinctive design, or association with specific designers or themes. Here are a few examples:

• Designer Collaborations: Vintage Avon jewelry designed in collaboration with renowned designers such as Kenneth Jay Lane, Elizabeth Taylor, or Erickson Beamon can be highly collectible due to the prestige and quality associated with these collaborations.
• Limited Edition or Signature Pieces: Avon occasionally released limited edition or signature pieces, often featuring unique designs, special materials, or commemorative themes. These pieces may have been part of exclusive collections or released in limited quantities, making them desirable to collectors.
• Novelty or Figural Jewelry: Avon produced a variety of novelty or figural jewelry pieces, including animal motifs, floral designs, and thematic collections inspired by holidays or cultural themes. Pieces with whimsical or nostalgic designs can be particularly collectible among enthusiasts.
• Birthstone Collections: Avon’s birthstone jewelry collections, featuring simulated gemstones corresponding to each month, are popular among collectors for their versatility and sentimental value.
• Complete Sets: Complete sets of vintage Avon jewelry, including matching necklace and earring sets or multi-piece collections, can be desirable for collectors seeking cohesive and coordinated ensembles.
• Rare or Hard-to-Find Pieces: Vintage Avon jewelry items that are rare, discontinued, or difficult to find due to limited production runs or short-lived availability may command higher prices and attract dedicated collectors.

Is Avon Jewelry Worth Anything?

Yes, Avon jewelry is worth something to the people who collect it. Because Avon is a company that has been around for decades, and because they have massive distribution, there is a plethora of vintage jewelry designs available. 

Here are a few specific examples of vintage Avon jewelry pieces and their potential values:

• Vintage Avon Signed Brooch: A vintage Avon brooch featuring a unique design and signed by Avon may range in value from $10 to $50, depending on factors such as design intricacy, materials used, and condition.
• Limited Edition Avon Necklace: A limited edition Avon necklace from a special collection, such as a holiday or commemorative series, could be valued at $20 to $100 or more, depending on its rarity, design, and condition.
• Avon Designer Collaboration Earrings: Earrings from a collaboration between Avon and a renowned designer, such as Kenneth Jay Lane or Elizabeth Taylor, may have a higher value range of $50 to $200 or more, depending on the designer, design complexity, and materials.
• Vintage Avon Charm Bracelet: A vintage Avon charm bracelet with a selection of themed charms, such as animals, flowers, or holidays, could be valued at $20 to $80, depending on the number and uniqueness of charms, as well as the overall condition.
• Avon Birthstone Ring: An Avon birthstone ring featuring a simulated gemstone corresponding to a specific month may range in value from $10 to $40, depending on the quality of the stone, design, and condition.

One thing contributing to the demand for vintage Avon jewelry is its limited supply. The market was never flooded with a particular piece or line, and they were regularly discontinued. Another thing is that jewelry was only a tiny portion of the Avon business. Find a piece from the 1960s, and you have had a very successful hunt!

Most Valuable Avon Jewelry

The most valuable Avon jewelry includes:

• Designs by Elizabeth Taylor sell for a high price, some pieces can fetch upwards of $500
• Kenneth Jay Lane designs are highly collectible. They can sell for $200 – $500
• Avon’s President Club pins are rare because they were not sold for retail and were only given to top Avon sellers. 

Is Avon Jewelry Real Gold?

Avon Jewelry typically does not use real gold in its pieces. Instead, Avon primarily utilizes base metals such as brass, pewter, or copper, which are often plated with a gold finish to give the appearance of higher value.

There is some Avon jewelry marked with a 14k gold mark, so they did use some real gold, but it is rare. 

Is Avon Jewelry Real Silver?

Most of Avon’s vintage jewelry is silver toned and not made with real silver. They do have a section on their current website for sterling silver pieces. 

If you are a fan of vintage costume jewelry, you definitely don’t want to miss out on our article featuring the best vintage costume jewelry shops on Etsy! From unique and one-of-a-kind pieces to affordable yet stylish options, these shops have it all. So, what are you waiting for? Check out the article to discover your next favorite piece of vintage jewelry!

Conclusion

In conclusion, vintage Avon jewelry holds a unique place in the world of costume jewelry, blending timeless elegance with affordability and accessibility. From its humble beginnings as a direct-selling venture to its collaborations with renowned designers and celebrities, Avon has offered a diverse array of jewelry collections that reflect the fashion trends and cultural moments of their respective eras.

To see more examples of Avon jewelry, please visit the Avon pages on Etsy and eBay. 

What do you Think?

What are your thoughts on vintage Avon jewelry? Do you have any pieces in your collection or have you come across any that you particularly admire? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!