Wendell August Forge vintage costume jewelry
Gingko tree rectangular brooch. 1950s. Wendell August Forge vintage costume jewelry
Wendell August Forge vintage costume jewelry
One of the oldest American companies, WAF manufactures jewelry from various hand-forged metals. The history of the company began in 1923 in Brockway, Pennsylvania. Its founder, Wendell McMinn August (1885-1963), after the closure of his mine began to engage in blacksmithing. Useful household metal crafts, ennobled by grinding and engraving, were in demand far beyond the state. Moreover, WAF was able to expand its business during the Great Depression and during the Second World War.
Since jewelry made of pewter, copper, aluminum and bronze successfully competed with items made of silver and gold, in the 1930s-1950s, the company completely switched to the manufacture of jewelry and decorative utensils.
Gradually, gold plated and silver items appeared in the catalogs of the company, as well as items made of leather and glass of their own production. Noteworthy, each piece is unique and individual, as it is still handcrafted by high-class artists and craftsmen.
Ladybug aluminium vintage brooch pin
The engraving of this hallmark is artisan in itself and absolutely unique. Along with words and letters, the marking includes an image of a silversmith making a product by hand in a workshop
Wendell August Forge vintage costume jewelry
Angel with Lamb vintage brooch. Aluminum
Birdhouse aluminium vintage pendant brooch
Farm scene pewter collectible pendant
Floral design textured hand wrought pewter cuff bracelet. Before 1950
Flower vintage stick pin. Aluminium
Handmade aluminum flower can brooch pin
Nature design aluminium bracelet
Nursing a tradition of caring. Made exclusively for District three O.N.A. Bronze brooch. 1997
Engraving indicating the use of bronze and traditional marking
Hallmark
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