Hollywood’s Most Dazzling Costume Jewelry Legends
By Something Vintage Jewelry | August 2025
When we think of Hollywood glamour, sparkling jewels come to mind. Yet many of the most iconic pieces worn by stars like Marilyn Monroe and Joan Crawford weren’t diamonds—they were costume jewelry. Crafted from rhinestones, Lucite, glass, and base metals, these jewels made high style accessible and redefined elegance.
Born from wartime innovation and a changing society, costume jewelry reflected freedom and creativity. America embraced it wholeheartedly, and Hollywood’s leading ladies turned these sparkling creations into must-have fashion.
American Pioneers of Style
Charel
Known for vibrant parures featuring Bakelite, rhinestones, and enamel, Charel’s playful yet polished sets remain beloved today.
“Charel’s playful parures made Bakelite and enamel synonymous with mid-century style.”
Eisenberg
Originally a fashion brand, Eisenberg became synonymous with bold jewelry. Rhinestones and sterling silver made their pieces so alluring that some customers bought the clothing just to keep the attached jewelry.
“Eisenberg’s dazzling rhinestones defined mid-century glamour.”
Kramer of New York
Founded in 1943, Kramer produced intricately crafted parure sets of gilt metal and rhinestones that captured couture-level elegance.
“Kramer’s intricate designs rivaled couture in elegance.”
Bergère
Established in 1948, Bergère made a name with colorful mid-century parures featuring glass and enamel—creations that still captivate.
“Bergère’s enamel parures captured the bold mid-century spirit.”
Bogoff
Chicago-based Bogoff became a household name for its refined rhinestone creations that mirrored the sophistication of fine jewelry while remaining affordable. Their pieces brought sparkle to department store counters and movie-star wardrobes alike.
“Bogoff’s rhinestone parures brought affordable sophistication to mid-century fashion.”
Deauville
Deauville offered coordinated parures that reflected a French-inspired sense of elegance. Their refined necklaces, bracelets, and earrings balanced delicacy with glamour, appealing to American women who wanted continental style.
“Deauville’s designs captured subtle elegance with a European touch.”
Hollywood’s Enduring Influence
These American designers elevated costume jewelry from trend to artistry. Miriam Haskell brought couture-level beadwork to the masses and was adored by stars like Joan Crawford. Trifari, led by Alfred Philippe, produced iconic fruit-salad pins and playful Lucite “jelly bellies.” Joseff of Hollywood defined Tinseltown aesthetics, crafting jewelry for classics like Gone With the Wind and Ben-Hur, using matte-finish metals ideal for film lighting. Together, these innovators proved that costume jewelry wasn’t just imitation—it was lasting artistry.
How SVJ Carries the Legacy Forward
In their time, Charel, Eisenberg, Kramer, Bergère, Bogoff, Deauville, and countless other designers transformed statement jewelry into something every woman could wear. At Something Vintage Jewelry (SVJ), we honor that legacy — curating authentic vintage pieces that preserve the artistry and history of costume jewelry for today’s collectors and wearers alike.
You deserve to feel confident, elegant, and unforgettable. That’s why SVJ curates only authentic vintage pieces — from dazzling parures to whimsical brooches — each enriched by its designer’s story and era.