American jeweler of Italian origin, Arthur Micallef (1884 – 1975) founded A Micallef & Co in 1919. Located at 158 Pine Street, Providence, Rhode Island, the company manufactured gold filled ladies’ costume jewelry, specializing in cameos. Since 1935 the firm made jewelry under AMco and AMco Jewels brands.

Arthur Micallef headed the firm as its president and Charles Marinari was vice-president. The firm also had offices in New York headed by Charles J. Tonry and John M. Tonry, and J.V. Merrill in San Francisco. In addition, A. Micallef & Co representatives made extensive trips through the country calling on the wholesale trade.

Arthur C Micallef

Born in Providence, Arthur C Micallef graduated from Cranston High School. During WW II he served in the United States Army Air Force, and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. As the president of A. Micallef & Co., Inc., he was a member of the Manufacturing Jewelers & Silversmiths of America and the Providence Jewelers Club.

After WWII, Arthur C Micallef Jr. (August 1921 – January 2013) joined his father’s company. Arthur C Micallef led the firm as president for over 40 years, and his wife Rosalie served as secretary.

Trademarks

Established in 1948 as a corporation, A Micallef & Co Inc launched three trademarks on manufacture of gold and silver costume jewelry. Among them were, in particular, Gold-Bond (1971), Peaks (1977), and Oriana (1982).

Adjustable rings

In 1957 the firm patented adjustable ring, which construction made the sizing device barely visible. The rings were made in 1/20 12K gold with pure nickel interlining for strength and long wear. Some of them had rhodium and sterling silver finish, with the use of genuine stones.

According to business directories and company records, A. Micallef & Co., Inc ceased to exist in 1989.

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