RENOIR/MATISSE: 1946 - 1964

The Renoir line of jewelry was founded in Los Angeles, CA in 1946 by Jerry Fels. The company was famous for its jewelry made from copper metal but also used sterling silver metal. Copper was a popular choice metal for metalworkers active in the Arts & Crafts designs in the 1930s - 1950s period. The company made jewelry of contemporary abstract designs that leaned towards modern art. The jewelry produced had the hand-hammered look using rhinestones as the key material. Mark: "SCEPTRON" with Sceptron Jewelry Creations in partnership used on costume jewelry since June 1944, "Renoir of California, Inc.", "Renoir" in script on brooches, lapel and scatter pins, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets since Feb. 1946, "Sauteur" since June 1958, "Sterling Sauteur Renoir with a copyright symbol".

Another company, Matisse, Ltd. was also founded in Los Angeles by Jerry Fels and his family in 1952. It manufactured copper jewelry with enamel decoration to the surface of the copper metal. Mark: "Matisse" in script, and "Ltd. Matisse", "Renoir/Matisse with a copyright symbol". Both firms ceased operations around 1964. Both company’s copper metal costume jewelry is highly collectible.