Born in 1898 in Russia, H M Schrager emigrated to the USA and settled in Northern Illinois before 1920. He was lucky to find a job in W Reichert & Co, 15 W. 37th Street, New York. According to the 1922-25 Jewelers’ Circular Keystone, Schrager was “for many years a traveling representative for W. Reichert & Co.”, wholesale dealers in art jewelry and novelties.

Undoubtedly, working for the company became an invaluable experience for the young man and a springboard into the world of jewelry business.

W Reichert & Co manufactured a wide range of jewelry and accessories selling them in different states through its representatives. Their product range included beaded bags, rings, cloisonne enameled gifts, French steel beaded bags, Magyar necklaces, hand wrought sterling jewelry, Italian Mosaic jewelry, French pearl festoons, perfume trays, and novelty brooches.

Incorporated in Chicago, Illinois, H M Schrager & Co Inc began its history in 1938, with offices both in Chicago and New York. Ten years later Schrager founded House Of Schrager, Inc., alternative name HOS Jewelry, Inc. One of the trademarks launched by the company in 1958 was Jonne. After retirement of Schrager in 1963, the company ceased to exist.

Advertising of Schrager

An experienced trader, Schrager understood the importance of advertising his jewelry. His firm was especially active in advertising from 1940. Thanks to these ads, today we can see the unique designs of high quality Schrager jewelry. During World War II, along with the glamorous jewelry, the company manufactured patriotic designs, with figurative pins depicting the US Navy and the like.

Schrager Jewelry and ads