The history of the Marvel Jewelry Mfg Co began in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1941. Its founder and president was Arthur Albanese (1904 – 1975). Before founding his own jewelry company, Arthur Albanese had extensive experience in the jewelry business.

Thus, in March 1930, Arthur Albanese was one of the three incorporators of the Paragon Jewelry Co., Inc., Providence, Rhode Island. Soon he became vice-president and treasurer of the firm. Besides, in July 1930 he purchased the firm United Mfg. Co., 11 Bassett St.

According to the Jewelers’ Circular, 1941, Arthur Albanese, formerly part owner of the Vogue Mfg Co, established his own firm, the Marvel Jewelry Mfg Co. Located at 46 Chestnut Street, Providence, Marvel firm was manufacturer of watch attachments and jewelry.

Of course, 1941 wasn’t the best year to found a jewelry company, due to wartime restrictions on the use of silver and gold. While other jewelry companies were closing, Arthur Albanese managed not only to survive but also to expand his business.

The appointment of sales representatives

In July 1947, Arthur Albanese announced the appointment of sales representatives to cover the wholesale jewelry trade. All of the men appointed were well-known to the wholesale trade. Victor King, 303 Fifth Ave., New York City, represented Marvel in the Eastern territory. He formerly worked for such famous firms as Ostby & Barton, and Briggs, Bates & Bacon. Ben Guth, working out of New York, covered Chicago and the Midwest. Harry Diamond, with headquarters at 215 W. 5th St., Los Angeles, was covering the West Coast.

Marvel Jewelry Mfg Co became corporation in 1949. In his announcement, Arthur Albanese stressed the continuing growth of the Marvel lines, and added that he had prepared advertising plan for Marvel in a substantial list of consumer magazines.

Start of costume jewelry manufacturing in 1954

Since 1941 Marvel had launched several trademarks, including MA, Celeste, Marleda, Commando, and Alba. An important event in the company’s history was the establishment of Alba Originals in 1954, a new division to make costume jewelry. The new “Alba” style jewelry was entrusted to Ralph Scudieri. The Alba line was sold nationally through selected wholesalers.

After Arthur Albanese’s death in 1975 his wife Frances Butera Albanese (1891 – 1983) continued to ran the company together with her son. Notably, she had been affiliated in the jewelry business with her husband for 54 years.

It’s important to note that at the same time as Marvel Jewelry Mfg. Co., another jewelry company with a similar name existed in New York City. This was Marvel Jewelry Co. Inc., located at 375 E 163rd Street. The company’s president was Abe Shikes, vice president David Schiff, and treasurer Anthony Fischetti.

Marvel Jewelry