The history of exquisite costume jewelry under the Valjean brand began in 1944 and spanned nearly three decades. The founders of the Valjean Pearl Corporation were copartners Louis Rabinowitz and Sam Shemler. Notably, each of them had decades of experience in the jewelry business, including pearls.

Sam Shemler (1906 – 1981) headed the Valjean Pearl Corporation as president until his retirement in 1967. According to the New York Business Directory, in 1953, Valjean employed 63 people, 18 men and 45 women. Originally located at 881 Gates Avenue, Brooklyn, in 1952 Valjean moved to 20 West 37th Street, and in 1961 to 389 Fifth Avenue, New York.

Valjean craftsmen made necklaces and chokers with one to five rows, with matching bracelets and earrings in white or pink. In 1955, they launched the “Rock Garden” line of baroque-style jewelry in delicate pastel colors, sparkling with rhinestones.

Exquisitely mated by Valjean craftsmen high-quality rhinestones imitated the glow of emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds. Valjean exclusively imported hand-faceted stones from Europe. The company sold its jewelry in the finest stores worldwide, at surprisingly low prices. For example, chokers, bracelets, and earrings cost just $2 (plus tax).

Advertising

Valjean launched an advertising campaign in the mid-1950s. Its jewelry appeared in fashion magazines such as Mademoiselle, Glamour and, especially, Vogue.

Vintage jewelry by Valjean

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