About Les Bernard

Learn About the brand

In the bustling streets of 1936 Manhattan, where art and commerce danced together, Harold Shapiro had a vision. He saw beyond the ordinary and founded the Vogue jewelry brand. As the years waltzed by, the brand's shimmer began to fade for the Shapiro family. By 1962, they decided to sell their share of Vogue. But as one door closed, another opened. Bernard, Harold's ambitious son, and Lester Joy, a designer with an eye for the extraordinary, saw an opportunity. In 1963, they breathed life into "Les Bernard Inc.", setting up their sanctuary on the iconic Fifth Avenue, amidst the giants of luxury.<br><br> Les Bernard wasn't just a brand; it was a revolution. They dared to dream, breaking the mold of traditional costume jewelry. Their palette: crystal, glass, enamel, marcasite, silver, and other precious metal alloys, were a canvas of innovation. They drew inspiration from the grandeur of Art Deco and the mystique of ancient Egypt.<br><br> One of their groundbreaking techniques was the "Diamond Point Texture," Using a diamond-pointed tool, he adorned jewelry with intricate indentations, giving them a unique texture and shine. The duo even took the audacious step of merging marcasites and rhinestones, an unheard of combination at the time, was testament to their relentless pursuit of innovation.<br><br> Their influence wasn't just limited to their showroom. The glitz and glamour of the television series "Dynasty" sparkled with Les Bernard creations. Even fashion titans like Givenchy and Yves Saint Laurent were inspired and took cues from their designs.<br><br> But as the golden hues of the 90s began to dim, so did the journey of Les Bernard. In 1996, they wrapped up their legacy, officially dissolving in 2000. However, the echoes of their craftsmanship still resonate, their pieces, though not as widely recognized as some other vintage brands, are cherished by collectors for their quality, innovation, and design.<br><br> In the world of vintage jewelry, Les Bernard stands as a testament to innovation, quality, and timeless elegance. Their pieces, a blend of traditional and avant-garde, continue to enchant those lucky enough to come across them. As the appreciation for their unique designs grows, so does the value and demand for their exquisite creations.