A Short History of the Coro Jewelry Company

The Coro jewelry company stands as one of the most prolific and recognizable costume jewelry manufacturers of the 20th century. Its history is characterized by rapid expansion, innovative designs, and immense popularity, particularly during the mid-century period. Visit FeltinMyHeart.com for Coro jewelry and other beautiful vintage pieces.

Origins and Early Years (1901–1930s)

The company was founded in New York City in 1901 by Emanuel Cohn and Carl Rosenberger. Initially, it was called Cohn & Rosenberger, operating as a small retail store that specialized in selling costume jewelry.

By 1913, the company had shifted its focus to wholesale manufacturing, and the name Coro (a contraction of Cohn and Rosenberger) was officially registered in 1929. The first manufacturing facility was established in Providence, Rhode Island, which quickly became the center of American costume jewelry production and would go on to become the world's largest costume jewelry facility. This location allowed Coro to scale production significantly, supplying jewelry to department stores and retailers nationwide.

The Golden Age of Coro (1930s–1950s)

The 1930s through the 1950s marked the "Golden Age" of Coro. The company flourished by hiring talented designers and embracing the latest fashion trends. 

Key Innovations and Designers

• Gene Verri (Verrecchia): Serving as chief designer from 1933-1963, Verri was instrumental in creating some of Coro's most famous and innovative pieces, including the patented Coro Duette (a clip that could be worn as two separate dress clips or joined to form a single brooch).

• Adolph Katz: As the head production manager, Katz is credited with overseeing the production of many popular whimsical and figural designs and his name is on many of the patents, though he did not design the pieces himself.

• Charles E. Pauzat–1939-1940’s

• Oscar Frank Placco –1934-approx.1945

• Robert Geissman–1938

• Sidney Pearl–1941

• Carol McDonald–1940

• Lester Gaba–1941

• Marion Weeber –1940-1941

• Victor di Mezza–1950

Brand Differentiation

To capture different market segments, Coro created several distinct brand lines:

During World War II, like many companies, Coro adapted to material shortages, producing many popular pieces using sterling silver (marked Sterling Craft by Coro) before returning to base metals after the war.

Decline and Legacy (1960s–Present)

By the 1960s, the fashion landscape shifted toward minimalist styles, and Coro began to face stiffer competition. The original founders and key management figures retired or passed away, and the company struggled to maintain its earlier innovative edge.

The Coro brand was eventually purchased by Richton International Corporation in 1969. The Vendome line continued for a time, but the overall output and quality declined. The last of the Coro manufacturing facilities in Providence closed in 1979, effectively ending the company's active production in the United States.

Today, vintage Coro jewelry is highly collectible, cherished by enthusiasts for its quality craftsmanship, diverse designs, and its integral role in the history of American costume jewelry. Visit FeltinMyHeart.com for some beautiful examples of vintage Coro pieces.