The history of Renoir of California jewelry company located at 6725 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, began in 1942. Its founder was Jerry Felsentein (1917 – 1996), better known as Jerry Fels.

Born in Brooklyn, American costume jewelry designer Jerry Fels studied fine art in New York, in Art Students’ League and National Academy of Design. Jerry Fels began his career as a freelance designer for New York stores. He moved to California in 1942, where he, in partnership with his brother-in-law Curt Freiler and Nat Zausner, established “Renoir of Hollywood”.

Noteworthy, the first mention of the company was in May 1944 in the Jewelers’ Circular, featured in the category “They are New”. The ad presented handmade costume jewelry ensemble in garland pattern in copper – choker, bracelet and earrings.

In 1943 Renoir of Hollywood moved to Santa Monica Boulevard, and changed its name to “Renoir of California”. Five years later the firm moved to Hollywood Boulevard.

Artisan Jewelry by Renoir of California

Located on Boudrie Street, Los Angeles, Renoir of Hollywood was a jewelry firm on manufacture of artistic pieces with hand-crafted appeal. Although the influence of the Arts & Crafts movement in jewelry waned during World War II, Jerry Fels continued to work in this style, adapting his pieces to the modernist style.

The company’s jewelry contrasted with the typical post-war costume jewelry glittering with rhinestones and gilding. Undoubtedly, avant-garde, modernist, and brutalist jewelry was chosen by those who rejected tradition and wanted to look original.

Trademarks by Renoir

In 1952 Renoir of California moved to 1755 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles. The same year Renoir started Matisse Ltd jewelry line, made from copper but with the addition of enamel. In 1958 Renoir firm registered three more trademarks – Sauteur, Copperwood, and White Copper by Renoir.

Among most notable artisans, designers and enamelists of Renoir of California jewelry firm was Curt Freiler, who sheared, soldered, hammered, and polished all items by hand. Curtis Tann was responsible for enameling work.

Despite the fact that the main material of these ornaments is copper and metal, today they are highly collectible and sometimes cost more than gold ornaments, due to their artistic value.

Modernist Artisan Jewelry by Renoir of California