Givenchy Costume Jewellery Through the Decades

A fashion house’s founding date and a jewel’s production date are different facts. Keeping them separate is the first step in researching pre-owned Givenchy jewellery.

1952: the house begins

Givenchy’s own history dates the founding of Hubert de Givenchy’s house to 1952. A reference to that year in branding must not automatically be read as the manufacture date of an individual accessory.

1976: a documented jewellery example

The Metropolitan Museum of Art records a Givenchy choker dated 1976, made from metal and rhinestones. This provides a specific historical reference with a museum object number, 1984.598.41, rather than an assumed decade based on appearance.

Looking across later pieces

Instead of treating each decade as one fixed look, compare individual objects. Photograph the signature, links, clasps, reverse and stone settings. Seek a dated catalogue or other reliable reference for any proposed production period. A modern reinterpretation and an older design may share a visual motif.

When you cannot substantiate an exact year, say so. Distinguish the period of a documented reference from the estimated period of the piece in hand. Avoid treating every logo variation as a definitive date code without a reliable source.

Before purchase

Check the dimensions, fastening and condition. Ask about missing or replaced stones, plating wear and repairs. Evaluate a pair as a pair, and confirm that the listing is not for a single earring.

Explore current designer jewellery; availability and brands vary with one-of-a-kind stock.

Research references: Givenchy house history; The Met, Givenchy choker, 1976.

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