The history of M. J. Averbeck, manufacturers of gold Jewelry and silver novelties, importers of diamonds began in 1890. The company was originally known as Averbeck & Averbeck, 16-18 Maiden Lane, New York. In 1900, Maximilian Justus Averbeck (1862-1938) became the sole owner of his firm which he renamed M J Averbeck.

Located at 19 Maiden Lane, the company increased their manufacturing facilities for the production of various jewelry lines and accessories. In 1911 M J Averbeck issued an attractive catalog containing 144 pages, illustrating with fine cuts the large line of jewelry. Solid gold finger rings, pendants, La Vallieres, brooches, scarf pins, bracelets, wrist watches, mesh bags, etc.

The company’s sale announcements in 1916 came as a complete surprise. They sold out safes, display cases, tables, counters, partitions, shelving, etc., all at reduced prices. Many of the company’s employees found other jobs, and some founded their own businesses. For example, Irving Cohn, who had worked for MJ Averbeck for 15 years, started his own business, Irving Jewelry Co. Asher Green, also formerly of MJ Averbeck, became manager of his New York office.

The fact is that in 1916 Maximilian Justus Averbeck retired and decided to engage in a completely different business, namely real estate insurance.

Antique Jewelry by Averbeck