Jerry Fels founded Renoir of California in 1946. He specialized in solid copper jewelry in the spirit of the Arts and Crafts movement. In 1952, Fels established a subsidiary company, Matisse Ltd., which specialized in copper jewelry with colorful enamel decoration. Production at both companies ceased in 1964.
*** Note: Earrings prior to 1960 are generally clip or screw on. If you wish them to be made into pierced, please indicate on your order. ***
Rebajes and Home Studio Jewelry
During the period when the Renoir and Matisse jewelry was produced, many other companies and individuals designed jewelry similar to them. One of the more popular companies was Rebajes. Rebajes opened his studio in New York City in 1934 and ran his business until 1967. He was a master of copper jewelry. His pieces are not signed, so I cannot authenticate his work. However, I have many copper pieces that may be his.
Many art studios, colleges and homes got into making enameled jewelry on solid copper in the 1950s and 1960s. I have several home studio palette pins and earrings. All are one of a kind items, so there are not multiples of any of the selections listed. A few of the pins have earrings that match.
