The history of the jewelry manufacturing concern Silverman Bros began in Providence in 1897. Noteworthy, its founder was 18-year-old Archibald Silverman. Archibald’s family came to the United States from Poland, which was part of the Russian Empire, when he was 10 years old. While still a schoolboy, he worked part-time in Providence jewelry workshops, performing various duties and learning the craft.

With the small sum of $5, he bought some wire for making brooches and rented two spaces in a jewelry factory on Eddy Street Providence. Three months later, he convinced his brother Charles to join him in the business. In 1917, the brothers moved into their own building at 296 Public St., Providence, where they manufactured costume jewelry for 24 years.

During World War II, Silverman Brothers stopped making jewelry and switched to making military insignia, as well as aircraft and torpedo parts. The company employed 700 people during World War II. Notable, the company received the Army and Navy “E” award, the only company in the jewelry industry to receive such an honor.

On December 5, 1946, Silverman Brothers became corporation. Archibald Silverman was president, and his sons Leon, Norman, and Irvin also held management positions. Charles’s sons Harold, Sidney, Milton, and William also worked for the company. Jewelry production expanded, but the company’s workforce was reduced to 270 people.

History of Silverman Bros Jewelry Company

Archibald Silverman served for another ten years, retiring in 1956. He was president of the Manufacturing Jewelers and Silversmiths of America, and later became the association’s first honorary member. Under his leadership, the Jewelers’ Buyers’ Guide began publication, and his name has been in Who’s Who in America since 1932.

The last mention of the company dates back to 1957. Thus, the company existed for exactly 60 years.