Description
Retired James Avery Onyx 18k/sterling modernist pendant. Weight and measurements in pics. Selling the exact piece shown in great condition with no damage or significant wear.
James Avery was a World War II veteran and the founder of the James Avery Artisan Jewelry company:
Early life
Born in Chicago in 1921, Avery was a decorated pilot who flew 44 missions over Germany. After the war, he studied industrial design at the University of Illinois and taught at the University of Iowa and the University of Colorado.
Jewelry making
Avery began making jewelry in his free time around 1951. He was inspired to create art that he found meaningful, and hoped others would find it meaningful too.
Starting the business
In 1954, Avery began selling jewelry from a wooden box at summer camps in Kerrville, Texas, where he moved with his wife. He printed his first catalog in 1957 and opened his first store and manufacturing facility in Kerrville in 1967.
Designs
Avery‘s designs were inspired by his faith, and often included faith-based images like crosses, chalices, doves, and fish. He also designed a pin for the Apollo XII astronauts, and was commissioned by NASA twice more.
