The history of Cooper & Foreman began in 1894 in New York City and spanned six decades, until 1955. Located at 3 Maiden Lane in New York City, the firm initially manufactured diamond and gemstone jewelry and traded in precious stones.

In fact, the firm’s history is inextricably linked with the biographies of its founders and presidents, of whom there were three over the course of those six decades. The first was William Cooper (1851-1926), then Arthur W. Foreman (1866-1931), and the last was Charles C. Pickford (1879-1954).

William Cooper

Born in England in 1851, William Cooper was and came to the United States around 1890. He initially lived in Boston, Massachusetts, and two years later found work as a traveling salesman for the New Haven Clock Co. He later moved to New York City, where he worked for J. T. Scott & Co. and then for Hayden W. Wheeler & Co. In 1894, William Cooper joined Arthur Foreman in forming the firm of Cooper & Foreman.

Due to poor health, he retired from business in 1920. Cooper spent his time at home writing articles on gemstones for trade publications and magazines, as well as books on the subject. Arthur Forman, his friend and partner, took over as president and led the firm until his death in 1930.

Arthur W. Forman

Born in Brooklyn, Arthur Forman began his jewelry business at age 14. His first job was in 1892 with Joseph Fies at 3 Maiden Lane, which Forman later acquired and operated until his death. Arthur Forman was a member of the Merchants Association, the New York Chamber of Commerce, and the Jewelers Security Alliance.

Charles C. Pickford (1879 – 1954)

After the death of Arthur Forman in 1931, Charles Pickford (1879 – 1954) and John Bodenheimer continued the business. Pickford was president and owner of the jewelry firm of Cooper & Forman, and his partner John Bodenheimer became vice-president.

Charles C. Rice (1867 – 1930)

Having worked for the company for over thirty years, Charles Rice served as manager of the factory located at 3 Maiden Lane. In 1905, Cooper & Forman completed modernization work on its factory. By expanding the space and installing new equipment and tooling, the company was able to expand production and increase its workforce.

Born in London, Charles Rice arrived in New York at the age of 21, joining Sexton Bros. & Washburn, located on Maiden Lane. A few years later, he joined Cooper & Forman, and in 1923, he opened his own business as a manufacturer.

Rice was a talented vocalist, singing at Holy Trinity Church and St. Paul’s Church, and was also a member of the Brotherhood of Goldsmiths.

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