7 Interesting Facts about Tiffany Co. You May Not Know ...

Jennifer

7 Interesting Facts about Tiffany  Co. You May Not Know ...
7 Interesting Facts about Tiffany  Co. You May Not Know ...

While many of us adore Tiffany & Co. for their classic but thoroughly chic jewelry designs, and can spot a bracelet, ring, or necklace from a mile away, how much do we really know about the company itself? Here are 7 interesting facts about Tiffany & Co. you may not know…

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1. They Opened in 1837

If you’ve ever wondered why there’s an entire Tiffany collection called “1837,” in which every piece is marked with the number along with the Tiffany & Co. hallmark, this is why. The first store launched in 1837, and the collection celebrates that momentous date.

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Tiffany & Co. started as a modest stationery and fancy goods emporium in New York City. Founded by Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young, the store originally had a humble beginning with only a $1,000 advance from Tiffany’s father. Celebrating its origins, Tiffany & Co. has integrated the year of their inception into their signature jewelry line, honoring a legacy that has become synonymous with luxury and timeless elegance. The number 1837 represents not just a date, but a hallmark of quality and an ongoing tradition of excellence.

2. It Started off as Tiffany, Young and Ellis

Now, we know the company as Tiffany & Co., or simply as Tiffany, but when they first launched as a stationary store in Manhattan, they were called Tiffany, Young, and Ellis. In 1853, when Charles tiffany bought out his partners, he shortened the name to the name we know, and love, Tiffany & Co.

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The original triumvirate of Charles Tiffany, John B. Young, and J. L. Ellis had a different vision when they opened their small shop in 1837. Their boutique was initially aimed at selling fancy goods and stationary items. With a loan from Tiffany's father, they established themselves at 259 Broadway in New York City, laying the groundwork for a luxury emporium. The transformation that followed Charles Tiffany's restructuring truly began the legacy of high-end jewelry and fine goods that catered to the tastes of the city's burgeoning affluent class.

Frequently asked questions

Tiffany & Co. was actually started by Charles Lewis Tiffany and his buddy, John B. Young, in 1837. They were just two guys with a dream!

Yep, pretty much! In 1886, they introduced the Tiffany Setting, which lifted the diamond off the band. It's become the classic style for engagement rings ever since.

Oh, Tiffany Blue is so iconic! They trademarked that color. It originally appeared on their Blue Book catalog cover back in 1845, and it’s been their signature color since.

Not super strict, but they do have standards. Employees are expected to dress in a polished and professional way. They basically just want you to look as classy as their jewelry!

Audrey Hepburn and Tiffany & Co. go way back to the movie 'Breakfast at Tiffany's,' where she famously ate her croissant in front of their flagship store on Fifth Avenue. It's an iconic moment in both movie and fashion history!

3. They Make the Vince Lombardi Trophy

While Tiffany and football don’t necessarily seem like a good match, they do make quite a contribution to the sport — every year, they make the award that goes to the team that wins the Super Bowl, the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

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In fact, since the first Super Bowl in 1967, Tiffany & Co. has been crafting this iconic symbol of victory. The process is incredibly meticulous, requiring skilled silversmiths who hand-craft the trophy from sterling silver. It stands about 22 inches tall and weighs roughly seven pounds, featuring a regulation-sized football in a kicking position. Reflecting the glamour and achievement of its recipients, it's indeed a piece of art that encapsulates both the prestige of the game and the enduring craftsmanship of Tiffany’s artisans. For many football fans and players alike, the trophy is not just an award—it's a coveted piece of sports history.

4. They Made a Cell Phone

In 2008, tiffany collaborated with Japanese cell phone provider SoftBank to make a limited edition cell phone. This cell phone featured more than 400 diamonds for more than 20 total carats. According to Sport Nippon, there were only 10 of these cell phones made and they cost more than 100,000,000 yen each.

5. They Had a Sister Company

While Tiffany does offer a few pieces of jewelry that feature pearls, there was actually a sister company, called Iridesse, that specialized in them. The chain was launched in 2004, but in 2009, in the middle of the global recession, the line was discontinued, and the stores closed.

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6. They “own” Their Own Color

Did you know that Pantone color 1837 is Tiffany Blue, which they don’t publish in their color wheels, and for which Tiffany holds the trademark? The gorgeous deep sky blue appears on their boxes, their catalog, and of course, on their jewelry and accessories. How cool is it that they OWN a color?

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Tiffany & Co. is known for their iconic jewelry designs, but they also have a long history of creating unique and stylish home goods. In addition to their signature color, Tiffany Blue, they also offer a range of other colors in their home collections, such as turquoise, coral, and yellow. Tiffany & Co. has also been a major innovator in the jewelry industry, introducing the first engagement ring with a diamond solitaire in 1886. They have also been a leader in sustainability, creating a Responsible Source Jewelry program to ensure that their diamonds are sourced responsibly. Tiffany & Co. is also committed to giving back to the community, donating millions of dollars to various charitable causes.

7. They Have 167 Retail Stores across the Globe

No matter where you are in the world, chances are, there’s a Tiffany store somewhere nearby. As of January 2007, there are 64 Tiffany stores in the United States, and 103 in other countries, from Colombia to Spain, Malaysia to England. Of course, if there isn’t a store near you, Tiffany does have a marvelous website, ideal for window shopping… and buying!

I was shocked to learn that Tiffany designs the trophy for the Super Bowl… How many of these little tidbits did you already know, and which surprised you? Or is there another interesting fact about Tiffany & Co. that you’d like to share? Please let me know!

Top image source: bookofjoe.typepad.com

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