Tammey Jewels vintage costume jewelry
Tammey Jewels vintage costume jewelry
The history of the American costume jewelry brand “Tammey Jewels” owned by Jean Barnes began in the state of Indiana. Incorporated in 1961, Tammey Jewels Inc. address was 9392 Lafayette Road, Indianapolis, Indiana.
Born in Beaver Falls, Pa, Jean Barnes (1924 – 2004) began her career as a dancer. During World War II, she married Bruce Barnes and the couple moved to Indianapolis. Jean worked at Empire Crafts selling porcelain and silverware to customers’ homes. Bruce, with whom she happily lived for 26 years, died tragically at the age of 48. A widow with four daughters, Jean Barnes not only survived, but became a successful business woman ahead of her time.
Her first home-party selling businesses, which motto was “Fashion Jewelry for the woman who cares”, became very successful, and the company expanded. Tammey Jewels kiosks, gift shops and jewelry boutiques appeared one by one in other states – Florida, Georgia, Ohio and Texas. Noteworthy, in addition to jewelry business, Jean Barnes owned a restaurant in Indianapolis, Indiana. Also, she was an expert in buying and selling real estate.
Talented business woman, Jean Barnes retired in 1986, sold her business, and moved to Florida.