About Black, Starr & Frost Brand
Black, Starr & Frost is an American jewelry maker whose history started back to the early 19th century. Established in 1810 by Isaac Marquand in New York City, the company initially operated as Marquand & Co. before changing its name to Black & Starr in 1830. The addition of a third partner, Isaac Frost, in 1857 established the renowned brand we know today as Black, Starr & Frost.
In its early years, the company gained prominence for crafting exquisite silverware, jewelry, and timepieces. Black, Starr & Frost worked for an elite clientele, including notable figures such as President Andrew Jackson, Tsar Nicholas II of Russia and King Edward VII of England.
The House thrived throughout the 19th and into the early 20th century, becoming the first American jeweler to open a branch on Fifth Avenue in New York. This strategic move further solidified its status as a luxury brand.
Black, Starr & Frost earned a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and design. Their pieces featured intricate detailing, reflecting the prevailing styles of the times, from Victorian and Edwardian to Art Nouveau and Art Deco.
The brand experienced a revival in the late 20th century when it was acquired by the Mann family who worked to restore the legacy of Black, Starr & Frost, maintaining its commitment to luxury and craftsmanship.
Today, Black, Starr & Frost continues to be a distinguished name in the world of luxury jewelry. The company’s custom pieces and timeless collections blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design sensibilities. While the brand’s ownership and structure have changed over the years, its enduring legacy as one of America’s oldest and most prestigious jewelers remains intact. The maker’s contribution to the history of American jewelry is marked by its ability to capture the essence of luxury throughout different eras.
About Vintage Jewelry
Vintage jewelry is a broad topic with multiple aspects to discuss. We decided to answer a few basic questions to provide a broad introduction to this captivating subject. So, what defines vintage jewelry? Why is it so appealing? And how does one navigate the optimal way to buy vintage jewelry online?
In the industry, different sellers and makers have different opinions regarding the specific timeframes characterizing the creation of vintage jewels. Here at Nadine Krakov, our definition places vintage within the bracket of anything produced between 50 and 100 years ago. Consequently, we label all jewelry crafted from 1930 to 1980 as vintage.
This time frame comprises Art Deco, Retro and Mid-Century styles. Why do we love vintage jewelry so much? It’s all about the quality of making and, of course, the aesthetic.
Vintage pieces were mostly made by hand or at least hand-finished while modern jewels are mainly cast. As the lifestyle back in the days was much slower, jewelry makers literally had more time in their hands. Skilled craftsmen honed their craft and reputation. They couldn’t allow a flimsy, poorly done piece to ruin that. Mass market jewelry didn’t exist at that time. Each little detail of a piece was executed thoughtfully and with the high quality in mind.
All the above is especially important when you are looking for a vintage engagement ring. If you want to find a special, one-of-a-kind engagement ring, look no further because we’ve got you covered. Either it’s a perfect diamond ring or a stunning color gemstone ring, we have a great variety to choose from.
How to shop your vintage jewelry online? Ask questions about the maker’s marks and hallmarks, request a video of the piece, and show it to your jeweler. The easiest way to be confident with your purchase is to find a trustworthy, reputable seller. And if you happen to be in the Beverly Hills area, just google “vintage jewelry near me”, find Nadine Krakov Collection store and stop by for a good chat with a sip of champagne.
