The history of the famous jewelry brand Uncas began in 1913 in Providence, Rhode Island. However, since 1911 the company was known under the name of its creator, “Vincent Sorrento Inc.” In 1911 Vincent Sorrentino, in partnership with Catherine Sorrentino and Frank Deangelis and with an initial capital of $ 100,000 formed Vincent Sorrentino Inc.

Vincent Sorrentino was president and treasurer of the corporation, and Catherine Sorrentino was vice-president and secretary. They purchased a factory for the production of gold and silver jewelry in Providence. Noteworthy, the factory previously belonged to Adjustable Safety Hat Pin Co.

The first trademark launched by the firm was “V.S.Inc.” Then followed Uncas (U and Arrow), Kiddiegem, Stylecraft Gems, Personality 1941, Glow-Lite, Curtis Creations, and more.

Born in the province of Naples, Italy, February 22, 1891, Vincent Sorrentino was the son of Luigi and Anna Maria (Caruso) Sorrentino. At the age of 15 he immigrated to the United States, and settled in Providence. He began his career as an apprentice in local jewellery workshops, and mastered every branch of trade very well.

Sorrentino had been a foreman in the Cutler Jewelry Co. factory for four years, before he entered the employ of Thomas MeGrath, 9 Calender St., in 1908. He worked until the latter part of 1910, when he started his own small business in Thomas MeGrath’s store.

From the very beginning, Vincent Sorrentino faced various obstacles, including fines, bankruptcy and charges. Thus, in 1912, he was fined for violating the law on child labor. In 1914, creditors filed a petition in U.S. District Court for bankruptcy against Vincent Sorrentino, Inc., 9 Calender St., Providence.

Uncas Jewelry Manufacturing Company History

Despite everything, Sorrentino successfully continued his jewelry business, expanding production and product range. In 1929 his firm moved to a larger plant, at 623- 631 Atwells Avenue, Providence. Notably, about 800 people worked at the new factory. In 1933 Vincent Sorrentino purchased the Beacon Mfg. Co. of 86 Page St., manufacturers of mechanical instruments. He moved machinery of the Beacon Co. to the new plant.

Vincent Sorrentino retired in 1960 and his son Stanley Sorrentino (1928 – 2020) succeeded his father as president of Uncas Manufacturing Co. From 1976 to 1991 he was president-treasurer and chief executive officer. He graduated from Colby College in 1951, and was previously an assistant treasurer and vice-president.

In 1961, Uncas, the country’s largest producer of rings, celebrated its 50th anniversary. During fifty years of its existence, the Uncas bought out and absorbed more than 12 ring manufacturing firms.

Providence Jewelry Manufacturing Company Uncas

In 1991 John Corsini became the new president and continued Uncas as his family business alongside with his son and daughters. John Corsini and his son Christopher celebrated 100 years of Uncas in June, 2011. The company became a global manufacturer and distributor of jewelry sold throughout the United States, Europe and Asia.