You may have heard of Monet Jewelry from a friend or seen them on an internet or video blog online. The jewelry’s apparent aesthetics and luxurious designs might have caught your attention, and you want to own one as well. Although most of the products are relatively budget-friendly, some of their costume accessory prices are no joke, and you may have to spend thousands of dollars for the jewelry you like. Nevertheless, you still want to have one but want to know more about the background of the brand and items in their collection. If this is your concern, then today’s topic is specially written just for you! Without any further delays, let’s begin…
When an individual hears Monet, the first thought that probably comes to their mind is the legendary painter from France. If you have an insufficient understanding of jewelry, then such an instance would be the case. However, there’s a line of jewelry that is named after the great impressionist. Monet Jewelry is a jewelry brand that offers luxury costume accessories that includes earrings, rings, brooches, bracelets, and necklaces, just to name a few of them. Their products are primarily made of gold and silver that emits an elegant and classical look when worn. With this being said—you can safely assume that most of their items aren’t for daily use, and it’s reserved for special occasions only.
Other than their main shops, Monet costume jewelry is also found in estate and vintage specialty shops. You may also find some on the internet, but it is recommendable to buy them personally, especially if the item is high-end. Also, the prices of each item may depend on the materials used. Aside from the material, some of the pieces are expensive because they are handcrafted. Its overall value would likely go up depending on the difficulty of the designs involved. There are items that cost about $30, while others can go up to thousands of dollars.
Monet Jewelry was founded by brothers Michael Chernow and Jay Chernow. At its inception, the brand was formerly named Monocraft Products Company. The business primarily manufactures emblems or plaques made of either gold or silvers that are used in lady’s handbags. Their products were in high demand during those periods because of the quality of the outputs. In the 1920s, the US experienced an economic depression. The owners of the company saw this event as an opportunity to start a new line of business. Since most women can’t afford fine jewelry in that era, they have decided to focus on costume jewelry during the 1930s.
In 1937, they changed their corporate name from Monocraft Products Company to Monet, and they have been known to produce high-end costume accessories since then. The individual responsible for the business’ transition was catapulted by a former Cartier jewelry maker Edmond Granville. In 2000, the company was purchased by Liz Claiborne—a prominent American fashion designer. As of today, Monet Jewelry continues the legacy of its founder and remains a top costume accessory manufacturer.
The brothers Chernow always has the drive to innovate their products and level up their business, as evident by the notable Monet Jewelry marks below—
·1927 – 1937: the foundation of Monocraft Products Company
·1937 onwards: Monet Jewelry
·The official brand symbol of Money was copyrighted on 1955
·Transitioned to Monet Jewelry makers
·Added Monet Sterling to their production
If you want to see the entire markers of Monet in detail, you can check for COSTUMEJEWELRYCOLLECTORS.
The varying designs of Monet through the years are also a remarkable timestamp of the company. Let’s take a look at each of them—
The 1930s
Brothers Michael Chernow and Jay Chernow founded Monocraft Products Company. They are first known for their costume plaques used in lady’s handbags.
The 1940s
The company rebranded to Money Jewelry and began selling costume jewelry in department stores nationwide. Some of the notable jewelry in their collection is accessories that are made with rhinestones and Austrian crystals. As a result, it emits a sparkling glamour yet simplistic aesthetics.
The 1950s
In response to the ever-changing fashion trends of the 50s, they have included new designs and items in their collection. Among their bestsellers at that time are bracelets, necklaces, jewelry earrings, charms, bow pins, and dog collar pins.
The 1960s
Monet presented new lines of jewelry and accessories that includes bangles, hoop earrings, and big pendant necklaces during this era. However, the company’s bestseller is a three-piece set of jewelry comprised of a classical clip earring and bib necklace.
The 1970s
During the 70s, the brand focused on extending its ling of earring collections.
The 1980s and 1990s
During this period, a notable production of Monet is their costume jewelry for Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent. It’s a brooch designed with elegant black enamel and crystal rhinestones accents.
2000 onwards
Since Liz Claiborne’s purchase, the brand has extended its line of jewelry and accessory brands. One of their popular products includes the Liz Claiborne line, which features carved items with corals, green opal, and various radiant gems.
In the present day, Monet Jewelry is still among the sought-after jewelry and accessory brands around the globe. And the reason for such popularity is pretty much apparent once you lay eyes on their jewelry. They are made of quality materials and handcrafted with proper diligence. The hallmarks of Monet Jewelry are their frequent use of precious gemstones like opal, corals, diamonds, etc. In addition, the base of the items is primarily made of silver and gold. In the next section, I’ll provide you with the prices of these pieces as of today…
As mentioned in the earlier sections, the value of each jewelry and accessory piece depends on the materials and amount of work put into producing the items. Below are the prices of some of their jewelry—
Monet Necklaces
An example of their mid-range Monet Necklaces is their Monet 70s Vintage which cost about $300. Its silver and white gold plate and intricate design emit an elegant look that makes them an excellent piece to wear during special occasions and luxury events. In general, the price range of these necklaces could go anywhere from $30 to $500 on Etsy.
Monet Bracelet
Monet bracelets and gold plating with silver beading at its core provide an elegant look. Such a look makes them an excellent choice for high-end occasions. Also, they perfectly suit corporate attires that blend well with either dark or semi-dark accents. The price range of these pieces could go from $30 to $200 on Etsy.
Monet Jewelry Earrings
If you’re looking for a bundle of earrings that allows you to mix and match, then Monet has several Monet jewelry earrings that can suit your preferences. Some of their popular pieces are the Vintage Monet Signed Small Clip-on Earrings. The price range of these pieces could go anywhere from $20 to $200 on Etsy.
First and foremost, go to accredited Monet Jewelry resellers to make sure that you are buying authentic products. But in case you want to know the difference between fake and real Monet jewelry, there are several markers to distinguish genuine pieces. The most basic identifying factor is that the manufacturer stamps a signature on each of their products. The signature is written in either bold or script letters. And the words you’d supposed to see in a Monet Jewelry are also either Monet Sterling or Monet 925.
The most frequently asked question about Monet Jewelry is as follows—
The line of Monet jewelry is handcrafted and usually made of gold and silver.
Monet Jewelry started selling costume items in the 30s. Thus, their items are valued as vintage. Also, the company is still manufacturing jewelry and is still among the sought-after jewelry pieces that are perfect for all types of occasions.
Each item has triple plating, making them durable that could last for many decades upon proper care.
