Avon Vintage Collectibles: Guide, History & Value
Introduction to Avon Vintage Collectibles
For over a century, the California Perfume Company—which later became Avon Products in 1939—has been a household name. Today, collecting avon vintage items has grown into a thriving hobby for antique enthusiasts and pop-culture historians alike. From whimsical novelty perfume decanters shaped like cars and animals to sophisticated costume jewelry sets, these pieces offer a nostalgic glimpse into mid-century design, marketing genius, and domestic life.
Whether you inherited a collection from a relative or discovered a trove of treasures at a local estate sale, understanding what makes these items desirable is key. This guide explores the most sought-after categories, dating methods, and valuation tips for vintage Avon pieces.
The Golden Age of Avon Novelty Decanters
Between the 1950s and 1980s, Avon produced millions of decorative containers filled with men's aftershaves, colognes, and talc. These bottles were marketed heavily toward families and collectors through local Avon representatives, resulting in a massive secondary market today.
Popular Themes and Categories
Avon designers spared no imagination when creating container shapes. Some of the most prolific categories include:
- Transportation: Vintage cars, steam locomotives, antique airplanes, and motorcycles made primarily of milk glass or colored glass.
- Animals and Wildlife: Porcelain and glass decanters shaped like dogs, cats, birds, and even majestic forest creatures.
- Occupational and Historical Figures: Figurines representing historical icons, presidents, firefighters, policemen, and various trades.
- Everyday Objects: Miniature telephones, cameras, lanterns, and sports equipment.
Are Avon Decanters Worth Anything?
While millions of these bottles were made, most common glass decanters hold modest financial value, typically ranging from $5 to $20. However, value increases significantly under specific conditions:
- Original Contents: Unused bottles that still contain their original colognes and retain their paper labels command higher prices among purists.
- Original Packaging: Finding a vintage piece inside its original cardboard box is a major bonus for collectors.
- Rare Editions: Limited-release commemorative bottles or those made with special colored glass or heavy porcelain can fetch anywhere from $50 to over $100.
Timeless Avon Costume Jewelry
Video: 189 Vintage AVON Bottles
Beyond cologne bottles, Avon was a powerhouse in the fashion jewelry industry. Throughout the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, the company collaborated with top designers and used high-quality plating techniques to produce stunning brooches, necklaces, earrings, and rings.
Key Eras in Avon Jewelry Design
To understand the value and aesthetic of vintage Avon jewelry, it helps to look at the decade it was produced:
- The 1960s and 70s: Characterized by bold, textured gold-tone metals, faux pearls, and oversized statement rings. Pieces from this era often lean into retro, bohemian, or mod styles.
- The 1980s: Marked by glitz and glamour, featuring heavy rhinestone embellishments, enamel work, and geometric shapes.
- Designer Collaborations: Pieces created in partnership with high-end names like Kenneth Jay Lane, Elizabeth Taylor, and Ungaro are exceptionally collectible and command the highest resale values.
How to Read Avon Jewelry Marks
Authenticating and dating vintage Avon jewelry relies heavily on the maker's mark stamped onto the metal. Most pieces will feature the word "AVON" in block letters, script, or enclosed in a cartouche. Earlier pieces from the mid-20th century may feature the "CPC" mark (California Perfume Company) or simply "AVON" in a stylized capital font. If the mark is accompanied by a copyright symbol (©), it typically dates the piece to the 1955 or later era.
Tips for Collecting and Preserving Vintage Avon
If you are looking to start or expand your collection of vintage Avon pieces, a few best practices will help you build a valuable and visually appealing assortment.
- Inspect the Condition: Look for chips in glass decanters, missing rhinestones in jewelry, and heavy brass tarnishing. While minor wear is expected, pristine pieces are always worth more.
- Store Glass Safely: If you collect glass decanters, keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent the colored glass or painted details from fading.
- Handle Fragrances with Care: Many vintage colognes have broken down chemically over decades. If a bottle is leaking or smells rancid, it is usually best to empty and thoroughly clean the glass to preserve the container without damaging odors.
- Research Before Buying: Utilize price guides, collector forums, and completed eBay listings to check market values before paying top dollar for common items.
Conclusion
Avon vintage collectibles represent an accessible and deeply nostalgic segment of the antiques market. Whether you are drawn to the intricate artistry of mid-century novelty decanters or the wearable history of vintage costume jewelry, these items tell a rich story of American design. With a keen eye for hallmarks, original packaging, and condition, you can curate a remarkable collection that stands the test of time.
