Vintage Sterling Silver Carousel Horse Brooch – James Avery
This vintage sterling silver brooch depicts a carousel horse in mid-stride, mounted on a vertically twisted pole. The horse is designed with fine sculptural detail, including a bridle, saddle, and flowing tail. Cast in solid .925 silver and weighing 17.56 grams, this brooch presents with a substantial feel and crisp form.
The reverse is stamped “STER” and bears a hallmark resembling two capital “H”s with a circled copyright symbol—markings consistent with vintage American silver jewelry and possibly attributed to James Avery, a noted Texas-based artisan. While the exact origin remains under review, the brooch closely matches known designs from James Avery’s retired collection.
History of James Avery Artisan Jewelry
Founded: 1954
Founder: James Avery
Headquarters: Kerrville, Texas, USA
Primary Materials: Sterling Silver, 14K/18K Gold
Notable For: Christian symbolism, artisan-quality craftsmanship, iconic charm jewelry, and Texas heritage designs
Early Life and Founding
James Avery was born in 1921 and served as a bomber pilot in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. After the war, he earned a degree in Industrial Design from the University of Illinois. In 1954, Avery began crafting jewelry in his mother-in-law’s two-car garage in Kerrville, Texas, with an initial investment of just $250 and a small workbench.
That modest start marked the beginning of James Avery Craftsman, Inc., which would later become James Avery Artisan Jewelry, one of the most respected names in American jewelry design.
Design Philosophy
Avery’s guiding principles were rooted in meaningful design, quality craftsmanship, and symbolic expression. Many of his early works featured Christian themes—crosses, ichthys (fish), and biblical motifs—crafted in sterling silver and gold. Over time, the brand’s catalog expanded to include nature themes, animals, Texas-inspired forms, hearts, family emblems, and personalized charms.
Each piece was intended to hold personal meaning, whether spiritual, commemorative, or symbolic.
Design Philosophy
Avery’s guiding principles were rooted in meaningful design, quality craftsmanship, and symbolic expression. Many of his early works featured Christian themes—crosses, ichthys (fish), and biblical motifs—crafted in sterling silver and gold. Over time, the brand’s catalog expanded to include nature themes, animals, Texas-inspired forms, hearts, family emblems, and personalized charms.
Each piece was intended to hold personal meaning, whether spiritual, commemorative, or symbolic.
Growth and Expansion
From its humble beginnings, James Avery Jewelry steadily grew into a regional and then national brand. The company opened its first retail store in Kerrville in 1973. By the 2000s, the brand operated numerous stores across Texas and other southern states, as well as a robust mail-order and e-commerce business.
Despite its expansion, the company has always maintained a strong in-house production model, with design, casting, polishing, and finishing carried out at its facilities in Texas.
Legacy
James Avery passed away in 2018 at the age of 96, leaving behind a company that employed over 2,000 people and operated more than 80 retail locations. His legacy is one of accessible, meaningful jewelry that blends faith, craftsmanship, and artistry.
Today, James Avery Artisan Jewelry remains a family-owned company, with products still designed and made in Texas. It continues to honor its founder’s vision by producing finely crafted jewelry meant to celebrate life’s milestones, faith, and relationships.
