On a ring, the mark "JJ" most commonly refers to Jonette Jewelry, a company known for producing a wide range of jewelry pieces. This specific manufacturer's mark helps collectors and enthusiasts identify the origin of their vintage and costume jewelry.
Understanding the JJ Mark
The "JJ" mark is a signature of Jonette Jewelry, a company that began its operations in the late 1940s, initially under different names. It was around 1970 that the company definitively started using the distinctive "JJ" hallmark to identify its products.
- Company History: Jonette Jewelry was a prominent jewelry manufacturer based in the United States, recognized for its diverse designs.
- Mark Usage: The "JJ" mark typically appears on the back or inside of jewelry pieces, including rings, pins, earrings, and pendants.
- Identification: Seeing "JJ" on a ring indicates it was likely produced by Jonette Jewelry during the period they used this specific hallmark.
Characteristics of Jonette Jewelry Rings
While "JJ" is primarily a maker's mark and doesn't inherently describe the style of the ring, Jonette Jewelry was known for:
- Variety: Producing a vast array of designs, from whimsical and figural pieces to more classic and elegant styles.
- Materials: Often utilizing base metals, rhinestones, enameling, and other non-precious materials common in costume jewelry.
- Collectibility: Many Jonette Jewelry pieces, especially their figural designs and holiday-themed items, are highly collectible today among vintage jewelry enthusiasts.
Why Maker's Marks Matter
Maker's marks like "JJ" are crucial for several reasons when identifying and valuing jewelry:
- Authentication: They help confirm the origin and authenticity of a piece.
- Dating: They can provide clues about the approximate age of the jewelry, especially if the company's history of mark usage is known.
- Value Assessment: For collectors, identifying the maker can significantly impact the perceived value and desirability of a piece.
- Research: They serve as a starting point for researching the history and specific characteristics of a jewelry item.
| Mark Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Maker's Mark | Identifies the manufacturer or artisan. | JJ (Jonette Jewelry) |
| Purity Mark | Indicates the metal content (e.g., .925, 14K). | S925, 14K |
| Date Letter | Marks the specific year of manufacture. | (Company-specific codes) |
When you find the "JJ" mark on a ring, it points to a piece of costume jewelry with a known manufacturing origin, making it easier to learn more about its place in jewelry history.
