Signed Batya vintage costume jewelry

Signed Batya vintage costume jewelry
The history of Batya jewelry began in 1974 in Los Angeles, California. Headed by Marton S. Stark (b. 1929) Batya Originals Inc. launched two jewelry brands for the production of costume jewelry and accessories. In addition to Batya, they owned the “Marika Pearl” trademark.
Originally, the company employed 6 people and produced limited quantities of handmade jewelry for women and children. The brand’s most notable designs included teddy bear brooches/pendants with articulated arms, legs and head. Also, in various festive looks – Christmas, Birthday, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Wedding, etc.
Traditionally, craftsmen used gold plating, metal alloys, enamel and rhinestones. Often sold in branded boxes, each brooch is marked Batya in capital letters.
The wholesale and manufacturing company operated for over two decades and ceased to exist in 1998.
Notably, there is a similar brand, Batya Jewelry Design, owned by Bette Allen and based in Tucson, Arizona. However, this is a completely different brand, specializing in hand-forged jewelry made from sterling silver, copper and natural stones. In addition, the markings include a hand-engraved author’s name, metal and design name.