Staret, deriving its name from “Star,” was an American jewelry house active during the first half of the previous century. Today, its brooches are highly coveted by vintage jewelry enthusiasts. Many of Staret’s creations have secured their place in the annals of jewelry history and are featured in literature dedicated to 20th-century adornments.
What makes this brand’s artisans particularly fascinating is their attempt to revive techniques from the 16th through 18th centuries, notably the tremblant style (known as tresolki in Russian). Historically, such “trembling” pieces were crafted from precious metals and diamonds. Staret resurrected this工艺 and adapted it for costume jewelry.
While their brooches might appear overly substantial or rugged, they are undeniably distinctive in their design. The only confirmed details about the company are that it operated briefly in the 1940s and was likely based in Chicago.
Staret pieces are characterized by their large scale, pot metal construction, vibrant enamel finishes, and rhinestone pavé embellishments. Due to their scarcity, Staret jewelry is highly prized by collectors.
The “Birds in a Cage” brooch is a highly recognizable signature piece from this label. These were large, voluminous pendant brooches that would be described today as having a 3D aesthetic. Inside the cage, one or two whimsical parrots were depicted, adorned with multicolored enamels and rhinestones, while the cage itself was embellished with large, colorful crystals.
