New England Glass Works Art Deco Jewelry
The history of New England Glass Works company began in 1911 and lasted forty-five years. Its founders were three brothers – Albert, Alexander, and Leo Weiner, who emigrated to the United States from the Russian Empire in 1900. According to Rhode Island Jewish historical Notes, the company was initially a hatpin and glass novelties manufacturer located at 12 Beverly Street, Providence RI.
In 1918 Albert Weiner invited his brother-in-law, Isaac Rice, who was an experienced glass blower and jeweler, to join the company. That was Isaac Rice, who invented the formulas for imitation pearl essence. Noteworthy, no one could enter the pearlizing room except the owners, as the company carefully guarded the secret of the formulas.
The jewelers handcrafted popular in the Art Deco era dress and fur clips, while brooches were less common. The marking was a glass with the inscription NE inside, which meant New England. A characteristic, distinctive feature of NE jewelry was rich filigree and floral motifs.
In 1927 Albert Weiner left the family business to form his own company “The Albert Manufacturing Company”. When Isaac died, his sons, Albert Rice and Robert Rice took over his business. However, they remained partners with Alexander Weiner until 1946 when they left for Barclay Jewelry Company.
New England Glass Works expanded the business by opening its division – Rice Weiner & Co. in 1946. Its sole owner was Alexander Weiner, and later his two sons, Howard and Lloyd Weiner joined the company. Both companies, New England Glass Works and Rice Weiner & Co ceased to exist in 1956.
Howard Weiner started his own company Lambert Mfg., which he operated until his retirement in 1985.
New England Glass Works Art Deco Jewelry (1911-1956)
