As much as I enjoy compiling old JCK magazine covers, I get even more excited exploring old jewelry ads. 

The covers tell our magazine’s story, but the ads give life to the companies and retailers who gave JCK a reason to exist in the first place.

Here are 5 cool jewelry ads from the 1800s:

The Watchmaker and Jeweler December 1869

Redfield & Rice Manufacturing Co.

I chose this ad not for its design, but for the ubiquity of its central image. I can’t tell you how many ads there are in our early archives that involve an image of a fork. If I were I spoon or butter knife, I’d be very offended.

The Watchmaker and Jeweler September 1870

Adams, Chandler & Co.

One can never have enough firemen’s parade trumpets. How close was I to blowing my rent money buying one of these babies off eBay? Very.

The Jeweler’s Weekly Aug. 18, 1886

R.S.F. & Co.

This ring would go nicely with a with a top hat and walking cane. No one would want to mess with you.

The Jeweler’s Weekly Aug. 25, 1886

R.F. Simmons & Co.

This was the only ad that used color that I saw from the 1800s. Looks to be lined with a gold leaf-like material. Eye-catching compared to all the black and white surrounding it.

The Jeweler’s Circular Feb. 6, 1895

R. Wallace & Sons Mfg. Co.

One of the more ecletic mix of products during any era, never mind the 1800s. The perfume bottle for the missus, and the knife for the gent to use on himself when he picks up the bill.

Bonus Ad:

The Jeweler’s Circular Feb. 13, 1895

The Dueber-Hampden Watch Factories

Nothing says “Buy our watches!” like an omnious factory pouring dirty soot into the sky.

Which one is your favorite?

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