Tortolani vintage jewellery
Jewellery brand “Tortolani” existed in California from 1934 until World War II, and then from 1950 until 1976. Tortolani jewelry was extremely popular due to its exciting design and has a high collection value today.
Frank Tortolani, founder of the dynasty of jewelers, came to America from Italy in 1923. He founded the family business and his children helped him. When he closed his factory, his eldest son, Donald, founded his own jewelry trademarks «Corina» and Crislu. Also, Frank’s grandchildren successfully continued the jewelry business.
Traditionally, Tortolani craftsmen used metal alloys of gold and silver tone, bronze, silver and gold plating. However, his decorations received recognition only in the 50s, after numerous awards for original design and unique method.
He signed a contract with Max Factor in the manufacture of boxes for cosmetics. Now these items are highly collectible. At the same time, he created a nominal jewelry for the celebrities of the time. Thus, among his clients were Frank Sinatra, John Wayne, Bob Hope, Jerry Lewis and many others.
Swan silver plated brooch. 1950sMaker’s mark
Tortolani vintage jewellery
Bird chick on branch gold tone rhinestone brooch with faux pearlsBouquet of roses silver tone broochCat brooch of bronze toneClown with umbrella silver tone brooch. 1950sCoral reef gold tone brooch. 1960sFlower earrings of gold toneOld tree gold plated brooch. 1960sRose bud silver tone clip earringsSeagull brooch. Silver tone, rhinestonesSilver tone plant broochSkeleton key silver tone broochSoccer ball playing mouse brooch of gold toneTwo fish with bubbles brooch. Gold tone, rhinestones, faux pearlsLeprechaun elf brooch from Irish folklore, brings good luck in moneyCactus brooch in gold and silver‘Streetcar’ brooch. Gold tone, faux pearls. 1960‘Tram’ brooch of gold tone with faux pearls. 1960Angel shoulder brooch of gold tone with rhinestones, 1960sGalina Karputina collection. Flower brooch and clip earrings of gold tone, 1950sPlant tree brooch and clips, gold tone, faux pearlsFlower gold tone faux pearl pendant1950s floral design broochGarden tomato brooch. Gold tone, enamelTennis player brooch. 1960sDonkey brooch. 1964Flower brooch 1964. Galina Karputina collectionA wild goose silver tone art glass brooch. Galina Karputina collectionA wild swan brooch. Silver tone, rhinestones, glass cabochon. Galina Karputina collectionGrapevine brooch of gold toneTwo wings gold tone broochMaker’s mark