The history of the Banana Republic jewelry brand began in 1978. It was founded by talented San Francisco artists Patricia Ziegler and her husband Mel Ziegler.
Initially, the company was called “Banana Republic Travel & Safari Clothing Company” and was engaged in the creation of clothing for leisure and safari. It focused on practicality and comfort, using high-quality materials.
In 1983, Mel and Patricia Ziegler sold the brand to the Gap corporation, continuing to focus only on the creative side of the business. Due to the gradual decline in demand for military and safari clothing, the company’s management decided to change the style of the products and create an assortment for women. Instead of tourist models, the brand began to produce everyday looks.
In 1993 and 2004, the new owners registered two jewelry trademarks: “Banana Republic” and “BR”. The assortment included necklaces, chains, bracelets and handmade earrings. Traditionally, gold-toned metal alloys, Swarovski crystals, zirconium, rhinestones, enamel, resin and art glass imitating natural stones were used to make jewelry.
In October 2012, the brand released the Anna Karenina collection, inspired by the film by film director Joe Wright, which recreated the romantic images of the Russian nobility. The line was distinguished by the simplicity and architectural forms of the 1850s, it included fitted overcoats with shoulder straps, voluminous jewelry and faux furs imitating the Russian style.
