GEMS FROM F

FLEUR DE LIS The fleur de lis (meaning "flower of the lily" in French) is a heraldic symbol of French royalty; it is still used in many French flags. Fleurs de lis are a motif often used in jewelry. The green enamel fleur de lis pin above is by Trifari.

FLORENZA
Florenza was a costume jewelry design company started by Daniel Kasoff Inc. in 1948 in New York City. The name Florenza was first used in 1950 (it was named for Kasoff's wife, Florence). Florenza produced pieces until 1981 (when Dan's son Larry, who was then in charge of the company, was injured in a car accident). Florenza made well-designed, intricate (mostly) gold-finished pieces that often contained colored stones (usually pastel, frosted or aurora borealis stones), enameled surfaces, filigree work, intaglio, and/or carved cameos. The styles used were often Renaissance revival/Victorian-inspired pieces, including cameos, Maltese crosses, floral designs, and cherubs. Florenza designed pieces (including cosmetic boxes, compacts, lipstick holders, picture frames, etc.) for other companies, including Estee Lauder and Revlon. The Florenza cameo pin above is hand carved.