Sunday, April 10, 2016



VINTAGE  
COSTUME JEWELRY
FEATURING  
BOB MACKIE  



Welcome  

I have always had an interest in jewelry. So it was only natural for me to open an online jewelry store when I retired.  I have collected vintage jewelry (primarily by Joan Rivers) for over 25 years now. I love the beautiful designs and the craftsmanship of each piece. Since I've opened my store, I have been branching out to include pieces of vintage jewelry from other well-known jewelry designers. Every day, I learn something new about vintage jewelry, and I want to share that information with you. Join me and explore the world of Vintage Costume Jewelry by Legendary Designers.

FEATURE JEWELRY DESIGNER



Bob Mackie
(1940 -  )

About

According to JacksonJewels.com, Robert Gordon Mackie, better known in the industry as "Bob Mackie", was born in 1940 in Monterey Park, CA, and was educated at the Chouinard Art Institute in fashion designing.  After graduation, he worked for Jean Louis as a member of the famed Edith Head design team.  He began creating dresses and gowns for Carol Burnett on her TV show and Diana Ross on Broadway.

In 1982, Bob Mackie launched his own first ready-to-wear collection of woman's clothing and started building his reputation by dressing some of the most famous stars in entertainment; i.e., Cher, Madonna, and Bette Midler in gowns and dresses.


Bob Mackie & Cher

In the 1980s, Bob Mackie added a line of jewelry that was produced by Marjorie Brandt & Company NY under a license agreement with the design work done by David Salvatore.  His costume jewelry is made up of aurora borealis, clear rhinestones and crystals, colored beads that are set in silver tone and gold tone metal base.  The designs and all styles of Mackie jewelry are approved by Bob Mackie.  He also designed and manufactured knitwear, eveningwear, suits, a fragrance, handbags, scarves, watches and stationery under his name. 

In 1990, Bob Mackie began designing for Mattel's Barbie doll and continues this tradition.  In 1999, he launched his career in costume design, with his made-to-order couture collection.  Besides Mackie's costume jewelry, David Salvatore designs and creates accessories including sun glasses, hair accessories and small leather goods that are sold in department stores and Salvatore stores.

 
Examples of Bob Mackie Designer Barbies

Bob Mackie realized that not everyone could afford his original fashions which ran as high as $100,000 a piece.  So he developed an affordable, ready-to-wear line that includes jewelry, eyewear, watches, scarves and menswear items that put the items in the affordable luxury category for those who want stylish items at a price they can afford.  His costume jewelry and other accessories are sold on the by QVC.

Awards:
    Emmy 1976 for Mitzi... Roarin' in the 20's (costumes, with Ret Turner)
    Emmy 1978 for Mitzi... Zings Into Spring (costumes, with Ret Turner)
    Emmy 1984 for Mama's Family (costumes, with Ret Turner)
    Emmy 1991 for Carol & Company (costumes, with Ret Turner)
    Emmy 1995 for Men, Movies & Carol (costumes)
    Emmy 2000 for Cher: Live in Concert from Las Vegas (costumes, shared)
    Emmy 2003 for Cher: The Farewell Tour (costumes, with Hugh Durrant)

Filmography as Actor:     
    Carol Channing: Larger Than Life (20-Jan-2012) · Himself
    Moon Over Broadway (7-Sep-1997) · Himself
    Armistead Maupin's Tales of the City (8-May-1993)

Social Media:

    Bob Mackie Official Website 
    Bob Mackie Blog
    Bob Mackie on Facebook
    Bob Mackie on Twitter

OTHER BOB MACKIE RELATED MATERIALS





 

PAMPHLET:  Unmistakably Mackie - Exhibition Brochure - 9/24 - 12/31/1999





 
Bob Mackie and Carol Burnett
 

 

BOB MACKIE JEWELRY

 
Bob Mackie Elephant Bracelet
Available at SCLadyDiJewelry
 
Bob Mackie Elephant Clip On Earrings
Available at SCLadyDiJewelry




Bob Mackie Zebra Pin & Clip On Earrings
Available at SCLadyDiJewelry
 
 
 
Bob Mackie Tiger on Pillow Brooch
Available at SCLadyDiJewelry

 

 
Bob Mackie Tassel Brooch
Available at SCLadyDiJewelry



Bob Mackie Purple Flower Brooch
Available at SCLadyDiJewelry 

MORE BOB MACKIE ITEMS ON ETSY

 

MOTHER'S DAY PROMOTION

Mother's Day this year is on May 8.  Now is the time to be thinking about what sentimental thing you can do for this special day.  Why not commemorate it with a beautiful piece of jewel.  When I first say these brooches by Joan Rivers, I immediately thought about a mother and her child.

 
Joan Rivers Green Mother & Child Brooch
Available at SCLadyDiJewelry
 


Joan Rivers Red Mother & Child Brooch
Available at SCLadyDiJewelry


And then Joan came out with another one that was even more special.  I call it the "Grandmother Brooch because it has three people on it--a grandmother, a mother and a child. 


Joan Rivers Purple Cameo Brooch
Available at SCLadyDiJewelry



 
Edgar Berebi Jewelry Easel
Available at SCLadyDiJewelry
 
I recently came across these adorable jewelry display easels by Edgar Berebi.  They have a gorgeous gold tone finish and work perfectly for any of the Joan Rivers Mother's Day pins as shown in the photo below.  It's a great addition to your gift.  When your mother looks at the beautiful display, she will think of you!


Example of Pin on the Easel


If you prefer flowers, I have filled my storefront with lovely pieces of flower jewelry.  My favorite is this Norman Miller crystal rose brooch.  Unlike live flowers,  a flower pin will last for forever.

 
Nolan Miller Rose Brooch
Available at SCLadyDiJewelry

Whatever you decide to do, be sure to make this year's Mother's Day extra special.  She won't be around forever.  I was reminded of this fact just last week when my own 90-year-old mother went to the hospital with pneumonia.  Thank goodness she is recovering nicely.


STORE OF THE WEEK


JUNKBOX TREASURES
https://www.etsy.com/shop/JunkboxTreasures
 
This week, I came across a wonderful store on Etsy called Junkbox Treasures.  It is owned and operated by Daye and Mark Salander from Lynnwood, WA.  They opened their first Etsy store in 2010 and have since opened more stores.  They sell all types of interesting antiques and lots of beautiful vintage jewelry.
What impressed me the most about Junkbox Treasures was the amount of great information given on each item in the store.  Daye is an avid researcher and has filled her listings and blog with all sorts of valuable information that she has found.  Although Junkbox Treasures Blog is inactive right now, her articles are still accessible to read.  Believe me when I say, “It’s worth the trip.”
The Salanders consider themselves to be “experts” on Siam Sterling jewelry, and Daye is currently writing a book about it.  She graciously offered this story for you to enjoy on a design that is often depicted on the Siam Sterling jewelry.  Once you read it, you will never forget it.

Mekhala and Ramasoon- The Story of Lightning and Thunder



I highly recommend that you take the time to visit Junkbox Treasures.  It is the perfect place to shop for that “special” gift for Mother’s Day.  And who knows what else you might find there for you!

SHOPPING TIPS

(From the “Jewelry by Joan Rivers” Book)
 You say some bright bijou has caught your eye?  That’s wonderful, exciting—but before you put money on the counter, spend a little time checking for quality.  First, turn that piece of jewelry over in your hand and examine the back.  Are there any rough spot that may snag your favorite sweater or irritate your delicate skin?  The back of any piece, whether it’s a pin, a necklace, earrings, a bracelet, a watch, or a ring, should be utterly smooth and blemish-free.  Nobody will see the back but you, of course, but you’re the one who’s going to wear it.  And that’s rule number one:  When shopping for jewelry, remember that you’re the most important person in the world.  More tips to ease your way:
Earrings - If you’ve got sensitive lobes, weight is important when choosing earrings.  Considering a clip?  Make sure it doesn’t squeeze your earlobe.  If your ears are pierced, don’t buy anything that’s heavy enough to visibly pull your lobes down.
Necklaces – The fit of a necklace is of utmost importance.  A choker should rest against your neck, without gaps or squeezes, while link necklaces should lie flat all the way around your collarbone and your chest.  In all cases, make sure a necklace is comfortable against the back of your neck; is smooth enough not to catch or snag fine fabrics; and features a clasp that is easy for you to operate.
Pins/Brooches – Maybe you’re mad for that beautiful brooch—but if it flops forward when you pin it on your lapel, just say nyet!  Likewise, a pin shouldn’t be so heavy that it pulls down on your clothing.  And always be sure that your pin features a clasp that you can open and close without performing major acrobatics.
Bracelets/Watches – Bangle bracelets, chain bracelets, and watchbands of a loose bracelet design should all hang about a quarter inch away from your wrist.  If you’re shopping for a bracelet that fits flush against your wrist, such as a cuff bracelet, make sure it fits snugly, but not tightly.  If you have trouble with clasps, look for a toggle design; these are easily negotiated with one hand.
Rings – Obviously, a ring should be tight enough to stay on, but not so tight that it requires soaping to remove.  A less-obvious consideration involves the wearing of gloves; remember that in winter you may have to choose between freezing hands and that hunk of ice on your finger.
 
SPECIAL OFFER - 50% OFF



Bracelet Helper
Available at SCLadyDiJewelry

Give yourself an extra hand, no more fumbling around. This bracelet helper eliminates the frustrations and difficulties associated with fastening even the most difficult of bracelets. The clip secures one end of your bracelet allowing your free hand to wrap the bracelet around your wrist and instantly secure the clasp. An absolute must for anyone who owns a bracelet. Works like an extra hand. ESPECIALLY HELPFUL FOR ARTHRITIS SUFFERERS. The bracelet helper measures approximately 5-1/2 to 6 inches long and features a beautiful hand-carved bone handle. Great gift idea too (comes in gift box). Aids in fastening and unfastening almost any clasp instantly on a bracelet or a necklace too. Ideal for back zippers and French cuffs. Get your bracelet helper today. 

REMINDERS

Wherever you see BLUE print, it's a link to what is being mentioned.  Some of you may not have realized this since I haven't mentioned it before.

Don't forget to mark your calendar for the Joan Rivers Christie's Auctions (June 16 and June 22).

I also learned that there will be a Tribute to Joan Rivers by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on  Wednesday, June 22, 2016, 7:30 PM.   You can read all the details here:  JFK Center Tribute to Joan Rivers

In addition, when QVC presents their "Christmas in July" show this summer, it will be featuring new items by Joan Rivers. 

Don't forget to REDUCE, REUSE, & RECYCLE your packing materials!

And don't forget to subscribe to this blog.  Just enter your email address in the box at the top right.







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