~
Napier ~ |
| Napier Co. was named for
its president, James H. Napier, who led the firm from 1920-1960, yet the
company's origins go back to 1875 when it was founded as Whitney & Rice.
After a succession of names (Carpenter & Bliss, E. A. Bliss), it became the
Napier Co. who's costume jewelry we're familiar with. Successive
mergers have occurred over the years, but Napier jewelry is still produced.
Napier is known for sterling pieces of lovely quality, with many having been
produced in the 1950's. It should be noted that silver plated pieces
had especially heavy plating. While the grape theme was used
throughout the company's history, the most stunning pieces were the very
large grape bunches produced in the 1950's. |
Just
click on the image to see the larger view. |
Napier Sterling Pansy Necklace &
Earrings
 |
This rare sterling set features perky
pansies and leaves with a graceful styling. A dramatic yet
feminine effect ca. 1950. Note: one earring back has been
professionally replaced at some time. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 762, 766
[similar pieces] |
|
Necklace:
15¼", 1¾" drop; Earrings: 1 by 1" |
|
SN041 |
$425 |
|
Napier Basket Weave Fur Clip
 |
From the 1940s, this splendid sterling piece combines simplicity with
intricate execution. The gold plated basket weave ribbons end in a
knot. Condition is exceptional in this dimensional fur clip.
Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
1½ by 1¼",
½" deep |
|
SN014 |
$88 |
|
Sterling Ballerina Brooch &
Earrings
 |
These lovely and well made ballerinas are
in a graceful, seated position and appear to be in the middle of a scene
from Swan Lake. The detail on these figurals is wonderful;
excellent condition. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
Reference:
click here for the 1944
patent;
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 770; Brown,
Rhinestone Jewelry - Figurals, p. 22 |
|
Brooch: 2¼
by 2"; Earrings 1¼ by 1¼" |
|
SN030 |
$275 |
|
Napier Sterling Hyacinth Brooch
 |
This rare beauty appears to be a stylized hyacinth,
just springing forth in bloom. With it's Art Nouveau influence,
this graceful piece is a delight. Marked: Napier
Sterling |
|
4 by 1½" |
|
SN010 |
$110 |
Napier Sterling Fall Leaves Brooch & Earrings
 |
The epitome of autumn, one can easily imagine the
gold, burgundy and brown colors in the curled leaves of this rare 1950's
set. Very dimensional; exceptional condition.
Marked: Napier
Sterling © |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 757 |
|
Brooch: 2½ by
1½",
Earrings: 1¼ by
¾” |
|
SN039 |
$230 |
Rose Vermeil Swirled Circles Necklace
 |
Each link of this sterling necklace is a swirled domed circle, enchanting in the rose gold finish. The attention to detail and hand assembly is evident
in the charming way the sections attach. Ca. 1945; mild, even wear to the plating. Marked: Napier
Sterling |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 198, 200 |
|
15½ by ⅞" |
|
SN035 |
$145 |
Napier Silvertone Grapes Brooch & Earrings
 |
Realistically detailed,
this brooch and clip earring set has juicy bunches of grapes with leaves
in a layered construction. Exceptional condition; ca. 1960. Marked:
Napier |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 298, 850-852; Judith Miller, Costume Jewelry,
p. 185 |
|
Brooch: 2¼ by 2"; Earrings: 1¼ by 1" |
|
SN038 |
$150 |
|
Neoclassic Wyvern Earrings
|
These ornate silver plated clip earrings feature classic styling with a mythical theme. The creatures, layered over scrolls, are wyverns (English dragons
or winged lions) and actually look friendly with their upraised paws. [Note: Napier produced some lovely pieces with very heavy silver plating.]
Marked: Napier, Pat Pend |
|
Reference:
Lewis, The Napier Co., p. 256, 464 |
|
1 by ¾" |
|
SN031 |
$88 |
Rosy Vermeil Double Leaf Fur Clip
 |
This rose gold vermeil fur clip has a nice
contrast with the realistic leaves and underlying domed circle. A
lovely and graceful piece from the 1940's, though difficult to
photograph. Marked: Napier Sterling
[7455 etched on the back also] |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 178-182 |
|
2 by 1½" |
|
SN034 |
$110 |
Oversize 'Danish Grape Leaf' Brooch
 |
Designed in 1959, this
eye-catching brooch is enormous but the subtle coloring makes it very
wearable. It looks especially lovely on purple shades or burgundy.
Silver plated brass; exceptional condition. Marked: Napier |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 298; Judith Miller, Costume Jewelry,
p. 185; Rezazadeh, Costume Jewelry, p. 120 |
|
5 by 3¼" |
|
SN036 |
$225 |
|
Napier Modernist Sterling
Bracelet
|
From the 1940s, this sleek modernist
sterling bracelet uses an interplay of curves and angles for a stunning
effect. The squares in the center of each oval link are domed for
dimension. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
7¼ by ⅞" |
|
SN022 |
$120 |
|
Napier Retro Modern Rose Brooch
 |
In
exceptional condition, this Napier brooch has the swirling ribbons
typical of the 1940s Retro Modern style. The flower and leaves
lend grace and romance to this beautiful piece. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
2½ by 2½" |
|
SN009 |
$98 |
|
Napier Grape Bunches Parure
 |
Classic and bold, this
rare grapes parure includes the large panel bracelet, brooch/pendant,
chain and clip earrings. All are silvertone metal which is
oxidized to give depth and interest to the dimensional design.
Gorgeous! Marked: Napier |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 298, 851; Rezazadeh, Costume Jewelry, p. 120
[similar pieces] |
|
Brooch/pendant: 3 by 2¼"; Chain: adjusts to 22½"; Bracelet: 7½ by 2";
Earrings: 1¼" diam. |
|
SN019 |
$345 |
|
Rose Gold Vermeil Bow Brooch
 |
Simple elegance form the mid-1940s, this
softly knotted bow is constructed of sterling silver with a rose-gold
plating. It's a lovely dimensional piece in near-perfect condition
- a rare find. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
Reference: Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 180, 193
[similar bow pins] |
|
3 by 2" |
|
SN028 |
$100 |
|
Hops Blossoms Necklace & Bracelet
 |
This necklace and bracelet set has an
unusual design of leaves and hops blossoms. Well constructed,
these delightful pieces are heavily silver plated, ca. 1950. Marked: Napier |
|
Necklace:
18 by ½"; bracelet: 7½ by ½" |
|
SN032 |
$185 |
|
Napier Sterling Vine Brooch
 |
Cascading its way along a lapel, this sizable piece features leaves and
fruits or berries. Blueberries, perhaps? Very fun for day
wear. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
4 by 1¾" |
|
SN004 |
$98 |
Napier Sterling Shell Earrings
 |
Elegant spiral shells with fluted and
flared edges make these earrings wonderfully dimensional. Fanciful and fun! Exceptional condition; ca
1950.
Marked: Napier Sterling Pat Pend |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 950 |
|
1¼ by ⅞" |
|
SN040 |
$92 |
|
Napier Green Apple Brooch
|
The peridot green molded apple stone
actually glows in this enticing brooch. Like its Austrian cousins,
the stone has a satin finish and lovely detail. Goldtone settings,
excellent condition, ca. 1970. Marked: Napier © |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 865; Brown,
Rhinestone Jewelry - Figurals, p.
272
[similar brooch] |
|
1⅝ by
1¼" |
|
SN020 |
$52 |
Silver Leaf Bracelet
 |
Reminiscent of Art Nouveau pieces, the
links of this alluring bracelet have a graceful leaf curled over each
domed panel. Like many quality pieces from Napier, the bracelet
has a thick silver plating, appearing to be a sterling piece. Marked: Napier
Pat. Pend.
[clasp] |
|
7 by ⅞" |
|
SN024 |
$120 |
Sterling Tropical Leaf Earrings
 |
Hand cast sterling with a realistic
wrinkly texture, these unusual leaf earrings have the Napier butterfly
clip for comfort and ease of use. Exceptional condition; ca. 1950. Marked: Napier
Sterling Pat Pend |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 755-757 |
|
1¼ by 1⅛" |
|
SN033 |
$92 |
|
Sterling Berry Vine Brooch
|
From the 1940s, this lyrical design
depicts a curved branch or vine with heart-shaped leaves and berries -
blueberries, perhaps? See item SN015
for this design in vermeil. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
3¼ by 2" |
|
SN027 |
$98 |
|
Napier Sterling Wide Bow Brooch
 |
Deliciously dimensional, this 1940s piece is sterling with a rose gold
plating. Representative of the Retro Moderne jewelry, this
graceful brooch is in exceptionally good condition. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
4 by 1½" |
|
SN008 |
$95 |
|
Napier Silvertone Grapes Earrings
 |
Part of the wonderful grape bunch series,
these clip earrings are of an excellent vintage. Well made and
detailed, they're great for the wine lover and are in exceptional
condition. See item SN016 for
goldtone pieces. Marked: Napier Pat Pend |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 852;
Judith Miller, Costume Jewelry,
p. 185 |
|
1½ by 1" |
|
SN026 |
$70 |
Napier Sterling Butterfly Fur Clip
 |
From the mid to late
1940's, this rarely seen fur clip (pin clip) is an enchanting butterfly
in profile with open-work on the folded wings. Marked: Napier
Sterling |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 199
[similar figural fur clips of the same
size and construction] |
|
1⅝ by 1⅛" |
|
SN037 |
$98 |
Ornate Amethyst Pear Cabochon Bracelet
 |
This stunning link bracelet is impressive
in its dimension and design. Each curved link has Art Nouveau
inspired scrolls with a huge tear drop cabochon in amethyst color.
The rope style border ties the links together visually. Silver
plated, beautifully made and rare. Marked: Napier Pat Pend |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 301; Pitman, Inside the Jewelry Box, Vol. 3,
p. 113
[matching necklace] |
|
7 by 1⅛" |
|
SN029 |
$185 |
Napier Double Pleated Swirl Brooch
 |
Interlocking and complementary, the two
swirls of this brooch look like pleated ribbons with curled under ends.
A timelessly classic piece, solidly made and in superb condition. Marked:
Napier, Sterling |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 761 |
|
1¾ by 1½" |
|
SN018 |
$75 |
|
Napier Sterling Berry & Leaves Brooch
 |
These berries have wonderful dimension in this lovely old sterling
vermeil brooch. Blueberries, perhaps? There is a small ding on the
top leaf;
condition is otherwise excellent. Note: some photos were taken in
lighting to reduce reflections; both are shown for comparison. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
3 by 2" |
|
SN011 |
$98 |
|
Napier Grape Panel Bracelet
 |
Bold and beautiful! This link bracelet is made of large panels
with dimensional bunches of grapes. At first glance it appears to
be silver, but the back panel is lighter, more like aluminum. A
stunning piece with push clasp and safety chain. Marked: Napier |
|
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 298, 851 |
|
7½ by 2" |
|
SN003 |
$175 |
|
Napier Sterling Ribbons Fur Clip
 |
The depth of this piece is incredible and hard to
capture. The sterling base is gold plated. The ribbon like
strands curl and swirl like bouncing tresses or ocean waves.
Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
2 by 2¾", 1" deep |
|
SN005 |
$98 |
Napier Sterling Fan Earrings
 |
Delicate bows and flowers create the
intricate design on these realistic sterling fan clip earrings.
See item SN007 for the matching brooch.
The fan pieces were a 1955 special issue collection with some of the
proceeds to benefit a charity. Marked: Napier Sterling
© |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 829-830;
Click here
to see the patent from 1955. |
|
1¾ by 1⅜" |
|
SN021 |
$90 |
|
Napier Scroll Link Choker
|
Each link of this lovely necklace is a
flared, folded scroll with nice dimension. It lays nicely on the
neck in a sinuous curve. An extender can be easily added to adjust
the length. Ca. 1952; designed by Eugene Bertolli. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
Reference: Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 256 |
|
14½ by ⅝" |
|
SN025 |
$140 |
|
Napier Pleated Ribbon Sterling
Fur Clip
 |
A circle of ribbon
ends in three vivacious streamers in this 1950s sterling two-prong fur
clip. As with all Napier pieces of this time frame, it's well
built and of nice weight. A lovely tailored look for daytime.
Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 761 |
|
3¼ by 1⅝" |
|
SN017 |
$98 |
|
Napier Blueberry Vine Brooch
 |
Sterling with a rose-gold finish, this brooch gracefully wends it's way,
just like a real vine. These 1940s pieces are charming and hard to
find. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
3½
by 2½" |
|
SN015 |
$98 |
|
Napier Crescent Moon Bracelet
 |
Reminiscent of crescent moons, this fun piece is a rose gold vermeil
bracelet with a rarely seen clasp type. This is one of those
special, well-made Napier pieces from the mid-1940's. Marked:
Napier, Sterling |
|
7½ by 1⅛" |
|
SN013 |
$100 |
|
Napier Sterling Fan Brooch
 |
Feminine and lacy, this pretty fan piece has an
intricate bow and ribbon design on it. Matching pieces to
this brooch included earrings (see item SN021) and a charm style bracelet.
The fan pieces were a 1955 special issue collection with some of the
proceeds to benefit a charity. Marked:
Napier Sterling |
|
Reference:
Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 829-830;
Click here
to see the patent from 1955. |
|
2 by 1½" |
|
SN007 |
$72 |
|
Napier Golden Grapes Brooch & Earrings
 |
A
popular motif, these vintage pieces depict bunches of ripe grapes with
their leaves. This line is less commonly found in the rich
goldtone and these are in exceptional condition. The shiny and
satin portions of the goldtone finish give it depth. Earrings are clip
style. Marked: Napier |
|
Reference: Lewis,
The Napier Co., p. 298, 850-852; Judith Miller, Costume Jewelry,
p. 185 |
|
Brooch:
2½ by 2¼"; Earrings: 1¼ by 1" |
|
SN016 |
$145 |
|
Napier
Retro Moderne Sterling Fur Clip
 |
Sleek
and oh-so-1940s, this pieces has both linear and curvaceous
elements. The image fails to show it's true beauty as the
overlaid rods nestle into the folds of the "draped"
backdrop. Sterling with a rose-gold plating, and in exceptional
condition. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
3½
by 2" |
|
SN001 |
$98 |
|
Napier Sterling Doves Brooch
 |
These
sweet birds are all lovey-dovey as they sit together on their branch.
Their bodies are simulated jade cabochons and the detail in this older
Napier piece is remarkable. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
1¾
by 1⅝" |
|
SN002 |
$82 |
|
Napier Sterling Gift Bow Fur Clip
 |
Delightful Retro Moderne piece with cinched up ribbons, as if it's ready
to adorn a special gift package. Deep dimension with a rose gold
plating over silver. Marked: Napier Sterling |
|
3 by 2¾" |
|
SN006 |
$100 |
|
 |
Back to Signed
categories
|
|
