The history of the Ernest Steiner Original jewelry brand began in 1932 in New York and lasted until 1970. In fact, the Ernest Steiner company which owned the trademark was no newcomer in the trade, having been continuously in the costume jewelry field ever since 1911. Ernest Steiner Original was one of three trademarks registered by Ernest Steiner & Co., Inc.

The second trademark “Hot Cha” for the production of bracelets, necklaces, rings, earrings, clips and brooches was also registered in 1932. The brand name Hot Cha is American slang meaning Flashy, vivacious, attractive, desirable. The third trademark ES for gold jewelry dates back to 1962.

According to a 1940 article in Modern Plastics magazine, jeweler Ernest Steiner created necklaces, bracelets, lockets, earrings, and pins from antique gold- and silver-colored metal. The designer often decorated his pieces with plastic medallions made of jade, carnelian, and lapis lazuli. Steiner jewelry markings include the stylized Ernest Steiner Original or block letters, on an oval cartouche.

Made from metal alloys, silver, natural stones and rhinestones in a somewhat modern design, today Steiner jewelry is relatively rare and highly collectible. In addition to jewelry, Steiner made various accessories, the most famous of which was the sewing kit in the shape of a nut, which has become a kind of business card of the company.

Similar companies

The 1940s Jewelers’ Circular Keystone repeatedly mentioned Ernest Steiner & Co as a manufacturer and wholesale jewelry company headquartered at 545 5 Ave New York 17, NY. Noteworthy, the jewelry companies of the same name, Ernest D. Steiner, Incorporated, existed in Michigan (1975 – 1979), and Ernest Steiner & Son, Inc in Florida since 1975. Both companies ceased to exist and were in no way connected with the Steiner business in New York.

Ernest Steiner Original Jewelry and ads