Who is Tiffany of Tiffany & Co.?

No conversation about luxury, high-end jewelry can exist without the mention of Tiffany & Co. Renowned for its lavish diamond and sterling silver jewelry, this company has captured hearts and adorned individuals globally for more than a century.

But have you ever wondered - who is Tiffany? Was there ever an actual person behind the name?

As we delve into the glittering history of this iconic brand, it's time to quell the curiosity surrounding the enigmatic 'Tiffany' of Tiffany & Co.

From Stationery to Luxury: The Birth of an Icon

While it might come as a surprise to some, there was never a woman named Tiffany associated with the brand. The 'Tiffany' of Tiffany & Co. is, in fact, derived from the name of its founder, Charles Lewis Tiffany. Born on February 15, 1812, in Killingly, Connecticut, Charles embarked on a journey that would forever change the landscape of the luxury goods industry.

Along with his schoolmate, John B. Young, Charles opened a "fancy goods" store in New York City in 1837. Originally named Tiffany, Young, and Ellis, the store initially sold stationery and a variety of goods. However, with Charles at the helm, the business soon shifted its focus to jewelry, marking the first step in their transformation into a world-renowned brand.

The Name that Rings the Bell

Charles Lewis Tiffany was a visionary with an excellent business acumen. In 1853, he took full control of the company and changed its name to Tiffany & Co., with the '&' signifying the collaboration of multiple partners in the enterprise. This change marked the company's steadfast commitment to luxury and its strategic pivot towards high-end jewelry.

From the Blue Book to the Blue Box

Under Charles's stewardship, Tiffany & Co. became a global force in the luxury industry. The company was the first American firm to employ the British silver standard (92% purity), which was later adopted by the United States as the sterling silver standard.

In 1845, Charles introduced the "Blue Book," an annual publication showcasing the company's most exceptional pieces. This step added another layer of exclusivity and allure to the brand, captivating the audience with the catalog's sparkling pages.

Perhaps most famously, Charles also introduced the brand's signature robin's egg blue boxes, a packaging so iconic that it has its own Pantone color - Tiffany Blue. This distinctive packaging became a symbol of luxury and elegance worldwide, with the sight of a Tiffany Blue Box becoming just as thrilling as the precious gift inside.

An Empire Enshrined in Legacy

While Charles Lewis Tiffany passed away in 1902, his legacy continues to live on through the Tiffany & Co. brand. Today, it is one of the world's premier jewelers and America's house of design. Every creation, every blue box, and every store worldwide carries a part of Charles's passion, innovative spirit, and commitment to quality and beauty.