How has Tiffany & Co Become the Darling of American High Society
March 5, 2010The sight of a Tiffany’s little blue box is apt to set many a heart a flutter, but how has a shop founded in 1837 become such an iconic brand?
An Icon is Born
In September 1837, New York was first introduced to the stationary and fancy goods store Tiffany & Young, established by Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young. It was renamed Tiffany & Co in 1853. The store made history by being one of the first to have non-negotiable prices for each item. It was at this time that the aqua blue colour, still used today, was chosen for all packaging and brochures.
An Industry Leader
Throughout history, Tiffany jewellery have played a large part in setting industry standards. In 1851, Tiffany’s became the first American company to use the 925/1000 standard for all of its silver. In 1907, Tiffany’s chief gemmologist was instrumental in setting the measurement of “carat” as the weight standard for gems. In 1926 the United States also adopted Tiffany’s standard of purity for the official standard of platinum.
A Part of American History
In 1861 Tiffany jewellery made its first big impact upon the media world as a presentation pitcher was commissioned for President Lincoln to commemorate his inauguration. He also presented a seed pearl bracelet to his wife. Tiffany’s further ingratiated itself as the unofficial jeweller of the United States as it provided swords, flags and surgical instruments for the troops in the Civil War. In 1885, further establishing itself of the darling of the USA, they were commissioned to redesign the Great Seal of the United States of America. This can still be seen on the one dollar bill. A true American company through and through Tiffany’s also designed the Super Bowl trophy in 1967 and in 2004 the NASCAR trophy.
A Catalogue of Artists
By 1873 Tiffany silver were viewed by high society as forms of art and were displayed in a number of museums and galleries. This view continues to this day with collections by Elsa Peretti, Paloma Picasso and Frank Gehry.
