Signed Fort vintage costume jewelry
Signed Fort vintage costume jewelry (1945-2005)
Fort Jewelry Company, Inc., located in Providence, Rhode Island, began in 1945 as a family business founded by Samuel and Lena Forte. The company was a well-known distributor of costume and men’s jewelry, as well as a manufacturer of collectible souvenirs and gift products. The successful family business expanded production and had subsidiaries in Cranston, Rhode Island, Florida (1981-1999), and California (1982–1995).
Over more than 60 years of its activity, the company has undergone a change in ownership, management, and an expansion of collections of costume jewelry and souvenirs under various trademarks. Some of the most notable ones include Bravi (1978-1984), Pedigree Hall Of Fame (1987-2008), ‘When something’s Worth Remembering’ (1993-2003), Heaven’s Voice (1993-2004), The Golfer’s Reward (1988-2009), Christmas Classics (1987-2008), and ten more.
Fort’s jewelers used only the finest pewter metal, hand casting and hand polishing each piece individually to achieve the rich luster of the fine pewter. Skilled artisans also used sterling silver and gold plating. Markings on the back of the pieces include the word Fort, sometimes “USA” (on a round cartouche), and a graphic image of a fortress tower.