DFB Briggs vintage costume jewelry

DFB Briggs vintage costume jewelry
The history of the American jewelry company D.F.B Co began in Attleboro, Massachusetts in 1882. According to “The New England Magazine” (1908), the company belonged to W. C. Tappan (July 4, 1864 – June 8, 1907) and his brother Charles.
An important turning point in the company’s activities was the invention patented on May 20 1890. In particular, a patent for a bracelet that could be stretched not due to banal elastic bands, but with the help of a hinged connection of the links. In 1903 they began the manufacture of the famous Carmen bracelet, signed “Carmen” and sometimes even diminutively Carmelita – in honor of the daughter of one of the owners of the company. Made until 1940s, the design of bracelets changed slightly over the years. So, instead of engraving with a graceful floral design, filigree inserts with glass cabochons imitating natural stones and rhinestones appeared. In addition, the engraving was often personalized, for example, with the name of the owner or love letters.
The company became the largest manufacturers of compacts, chains, bracelets, earrings, etc. and had offices in New York, Chicago, st. Louis and London.
Traditionally, the company’s craftsmen used sterling silver, gold filling or plating, and guilloche enamel. They labeled products with “D.F.B. Co.”, made in USA, Carmen, and Patented.
Noteworthy, D.F.B. marking was last used in 1922 as the company name changed to Briggs, Bates & Bacon. Bates & Bacon also belonged to Tappan brothers, which they purchased in 1907. The company ceased to exist in 1950. Extremely rare, the products of this company are highly collectible.

DFB Briggs vintage costume jewelry