The history of the Antique C&R Hettel jewelry brand dates back to the jewelry business of Charles R. Hettel, founded in 1890 in St. Louis, Missouri.
The company initially specialized in the production of watches and luxury jewelry made in the spirit of the Victorian or Art Deco era. Precious metals such as gold and silver, as well as diamonds, were used to create products.
During the economic crisis known as the Great Depression (late 1920s – early 1930s), the company was forced to adapt to new conditions in order to survive. As a result, the production of jewelry from more affordable materials was started.
Austrian crystal began to be used instead of diamonds, artificial pearls replaced natural ones, and gold products received a brass base with gold plating. Despite this, impeccable craftsmanship and a high level of execution remained a priority.
The company reportedly went out of business in the 1940s, with the last jewellery catalogue under the brand being released in 1931.
