Albert Weiss began his legendary career at Coro, Inc. This company was started by two men in 1901 whose business model was set up to contract with talented designers and then have jobbers manufacture it. Weiss was one of their contracted talents. I am not able to ascertain how many years Weiss designed for Coro, but in 1942, he set out on his own. He was almost instantly successful and designed some of the most fashion-trendy jewelry of his time.

Weiss’s works featured rhinestones, plastics and enamel. His design signature has been pinpointed by two styles: smoky quartz rhinestones with pave loops or icing (similar to Eisenberg) and clear rhinestones as outlining stones. The smoky quartz rhinestones, he referred to as “Black Diamonds,” were created to imitate the real German gemstone. He was particular in utilizing high quality Austrian rhinestones that were prong set in the jewelry. Often times, his jewelry’s quality, was misinterpreted due to its price points.

Through today, collectors remain enamored with his Christmas jewelry, especially his trees. Besides these seasonally themed creations, he was known for his Maltese crosses. He, like most designers of his time, also created floral and fruit designs. Over 30 years, his designs remained consistent and easily recognizable. Nearly all of his jewelry was signed. Experts have discovered numerous signatures including Albert Weiss in script, WEISS in script, Weissco and WEISS in all caps with a copyright symbol.

In 1971, under his son’s direction, Weiss ceased producing jewelry. His timeless designs remain fashionable and desirable.

Back to Top