Signed Robert Rhinestone Cluster Clip On Earrings

A pair of elegant clip on vintage earrings signed Robert, with intricately hand wired and pronged rhinestones and filigree backing. They were created by a Master. Robert actually designed for Miriam Haskell before going out on his own. The designer’s full name was Robert Levy. He, along with David Jaffe and Irving Landsman, created the Fashioncraft Jewelry Company in New York City in 1942. Landsman left the company in 1951. Fashioncraft’s name was changed to Robert Originals, Inc. in 1960, but the company often went by the name of Robert or Original by Robert. Levy often included nature and floral images in his designs that were indicative of the Art Nouveau movement. Faux pearls, crystal beads, colored glass, and high quality imported Austrian rhinestones were set onto ornate gilded filigree with openwork mountings. Based on the company’s advertisement in the 1940s, expert jewelers could mistake the stones Levy used for genuine precious jewels. Because of its exceptional design, workmanship, and materials used, the jewelry had a high price tag. For example, in the mid-1940s, a Robert Originals pin and earring set would sell for approximately $50. Robert jewelry was used in the television networks and even in a few Hollywood films including the Oscar-nominated Elia Kazan movie Viva Zapata starring Marlon Brando and Jean Peters. In 1975, Robert Levy retired.