Napier Silver Plate Necklace, Blue Topaz Maltese Cross

Heirloom quality Napier silver plate necklace with a sparkling blue topaz Maltese cross.

Napier Jewelry Set Details

• A book piece mid-century set from Napier in silver plate.
• Large Maltese Cross pendant necklace
• Open-work silver plate with a scroll and bead design.
• Large faceted blue topaz rhinestones.
• Spring ring closure.
• One of the most outstanding Napier designs from the 1950s.
• Shown on page 220. “The Napier Co.“ by Melinda L. Lewis.
• Coordinates with the Napier bracelet and earrings shown below.

The Story of Napier

The Napier Company is an American jewelry manufacturing company and was one of the first modern corporations.  The company was at the forefront of fashion and design and had a history of sending its designers to Europe.  in the United States.  

Napier got its start in 1878 as The E. A. Bliss co. in North Attleboro, Massachusetts.  The Bliss company manufactured gilt men’s watch chains. In 1890, the company relocated to Meriden, Connecticut.

James H. Napier served as president from 1920 to his death in 1960.  He was a major force in the company’s move into costume jewelry.  Named The Napier-Bliss Co., in 1920, the company again changed its name to The Napier Co in 1922. 

During both World Wars, Napier ceased the production of jewelry, focusing on producing war-related medals and medallions. In 1999, Napier was purchased by Victoria & Company. The plant Merdian plant closed in 1999. Now owned by the Jones Apparel Group, lesser-quality Napier jewelry is still manufactured overseas.