Russ Berrie vintage costume jewelry

18.11.2021

161 1 minute read

Russ Berrie vintage costume jewelry
The history of the legendary brand for the production of toys and souvenirs Russ Berrie brand began in Oakland New Jersey, in 1963. Its founder was Bronx-born Russell Berrie (1933-2002), who started his career as a toy seller in 1956. The smart boy soon realized that buyers also need inexpensive knick-knacks that can be bought in between, to cheer up or give gifts. This inspired Russell to create his workshop. Thanks to his talent and brain, his workshop in a rented garage went on to become a multi-million dollar international corporation.
The son of a jewelry seller, he was involved in this business from childhood, and the creation of costume jewelry, along with toys and souvenirs, was quite logical. The designs of these jewelry pieces are easily recognizable. Traditionally bright enamel and plastic pins, pendants and badges were excellent gifts for the main holidays – Christmas, Easter, Halloween, etc. The marking contains the word Russ, or Russ Berrie. Also, many of Russ Berrie decorations produced in Hong Kong in 1990-2000s, have the according labeling.
Noteworthy, Russell was a great philanthropist who entered the list of 40 most generous Americans in 1998. According to him, “there is nothing more important in life than helping a fellow human being.”