✦ Collector’s guide
How to identify authentic Swoboda
Swoboda is one of the most collected names in American gemstone jewelry — and one of the most imitated. Here is what to look for, from the house itself.
Look for the signature
Most Swoboda pieces are signed “Swoboda” on the reverse. Check the back of the setting, the pin bar of a brooch, or the clasp of a necklace.
Or the original tag
Not every piece was signed. Some designs left no room for a mark; others were made before Swoboda began signing its work. Those pieces carry an original, signed Swoboda tag.
Genuine stones, never glass
Swoboda sets natural gemstones — jade, coral, opal, moonstone, garnet, amethyst, peridot, Osmena pearl and more. Glass “stones” are a red flag.
24k gold plate
Settings are base metal finished in 24-karat gold plate, with a warm, rich yellow tone. Treat it gently: no silver or gold dips.
Hand-set detail
Look closely: clusters of tiny stones, leaves of carved jade, pearls nested among gems. The intricacy is the signature as much as the stamp.
Buy from the source
Everything sold on this site comes directly from Nate Waxman, Swoboda’s partner since 1963 and its chief designer.
Questions collectors ask
Why are some pieces signed and some come with a tag?
Not all Swoboda pieces were originally signed. Sometimes a design left no room for a signature, or the piece was made before Swoboda started signing its jewelry. Those pieces include a signed Swoboda tag.
What are Swoboda settings made of?
Base metal, plated in 24k gold. All stones are natural and genuine.
Is Swoboda jewelry still made?
Yes. Nate Waxman owns the Swoboda name and designs, and pieces are still made in Los Angeles from the original molds, with genuine stones. Because natural gemstones are increasingly hard to source, some designs are limited.
Is Swoboda a good investment?
We can’t promise that any piece will rise in value. What we can tell you: every piece is a limited reissue of an original Swoboda design, the natural stones are getting harder to source, and our prices have gone up as they have. Most people buy Swoboda to wear — and keep it to pass down.
Can a damaged piece be repaired?
Yes. Pieces handled with care are guaranteed indefinitely. Send yours back with your return address; we repair it and pay the return shipping.