Brandt
Not much is known about Brandt Metal Crafters, a small Chicago craft shop that produced jewelry in the early 20th century. According to Sharon Darling's Chicago Metalsmiths the firm was "listed in 1914 [Chicago] directory as specialists in initials and monograms" and "advertised 'arts and crafts jewelry' in 1923." We've seen very few items from this company. The silver and gold necklaces below are interesting pieces. Not to be confused with French Deco metalworker Edgar Brandt.
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Pendant on paperclip chain. Pendant has Nouveau style floral decoration applied to cutout
oval frame with curving top, centering green and black iridescent scarab beetle.
Pendant: 1-9/16" H (not including loop) and 13/16" W. Marked: BRANDT / STERLING
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Pendant in 14K gold, on 10K trace chain. Shield-form with applied geometric wirework design
at the top that curves down the sides centering oval bezel-set cabochon lapis stone. Applied stylized
flowers, leaves, and curving ornament. Pendant: 1-1/2" H and 15/16" W. Marked: BRANDT / 14K
It is unfortunate that so many shops of this period simply disappeared without leaving much of a trail. At least the pieces shown here were marked; what's even sadder is that many pieces have neither marks or any historic records (catalogs, advertisements, etc.) that would help identify the fine work.
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Brandt silver back and mark:
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Brandt gold back and mark:
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