Monet Jewelry Compact Mirror

Are you looking to add a touch of vintage glamour to your handbag? Then a Monet jewelry compact mirror may be just what you need! Synonymous with timeless style and quality craftsmanship, Monet compact mirrors make a wonderful gift or collectible. This buying guide covers everything you need to know before purchasing the perfect Monet compact mirror.

A Brief History of Monet Jewelry

The Monet jewelry company was founded in 1929 by Michael and Joseph Chernow. The brothers wanted to create high-quality yet affordable fashion jewelry and accessories, coining the term “costume jewelry.” Some of their earliest pieces incorporated Czech glass stones and engraved metals.

Monet jewelry grew in popularity in the 1930s and 40s as quality craftsmanship and glamorous style took off. Iconic fashion designers like Coco Chanel wore Monet pieces, influencing mainstream trends. The brand has evolved through the decades but continues to be known for stunning costume jewelry you can wear every day.

In the 1990s, Monet began producing the ornate compact mirrors that many collectors covet today. The vintage styling and intricate detailing make them stand out from ordinary mirrors. Owning a Monet compact adds a touch of sophisticated glamour to any outfit.

Factors To Consider When Buying a Monet Jewelry Compact Mirror

There are a few key factors to weigh when selecting a Monet jewelry compact mirror:

• Design: Monet compacts come in a vast array of designs, from Art Deco geometric shapes to floral motifs and elegant filigree frames. Select a style that fits your personal tastes. Vintage lovers may enjoy ornate gold detailing while minimalists may prefer a sleeker silver look.
• Size: Standard Monet compacts are around 2 inches in diameter, but smaller or larger versions are available too. Consider portability vs visibility when choosing size. Larger compacts offer bigger mirrors but are heavier to carry.
• Materials: Most Monet compacts have chrome or silver toned metal frames, sometimes with rhinestone accents. The mirror itself may be glass or acrylic. Premium models feature real crushed mother of pearl inlays for a luxurious look.
• Quality: Examine the quality of materials and craftsmanship closely. Higher end Monet mirrors should open and close smoothly. Avoid cheap imitations with unfinished metal edges or flimsy mirror panels. Authentic vintage pieces in good condition also have higher value for collectors.

The Top Designs and Styles of Monet Compact Mirrors

Monet compact mirrors embody the glamorous vintage styles of the 1940s, 50s and 60s. Here are some of the most popular designs to look out for:

• Filigree compacts: Delicate ornate openwork metal frames in silver or gold tones. A filigreed vintage mirror has romantic vintage appeal.
• Geometric and angular compacts: Stylized Art Deco inspired shapes with clean lines and geometric details. Often accented with small sparkling rhinestones.
• Floral engraved compacts: Soft botanical engravings like roses, iris blossoms or scrolling vines bring feminine charm. Colored enamel flower details add a pop of brightness.
• Mother of pearl inlay compacts: The iridescent nacre interiors emit a luminous natural glow. Especially prized by collectors.
• Tortoiseshell patterned compacts: Faux tortoiseshell plastic or celluloid with swirling brown and black designs. Rich patterned texture.
• Jeweled compacts: Dazzling borders and frames encrusted with tiny rhinestones or aurora borealis crystals. Glitzy ice white and jet black combinations are striking.

Where To Buy Authentic Monet Jewelry Compact Mirrors

You can find both vintage and modern Monet compact mirrors at:

• Online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy. Great for finding rare vintage Monet pieces, but be sure to authenticate before purchasing.
• Jewelry chain retailers like JCPenney, Kohl’s or Ross may carry affordable new Monet compacts. Limited selection but easy in-store returns.
• Specialty vintage shops in your area. These small businesses have unique vintage finds and knowledgeable owners who can assess authenticity.
• Monet’s website sells their newest compact mirror designs online. For guaranteed authentic Monet quality direct from the brand.
• Museum shops and gift stores in major museums or arts institutions. Find exclusive higher end Monet jewelry alongside other artisan designs.
• Antique stores or flea markets. You may uncover a real gem of a vintage Monet compact at bargain prices. Just double check for fakes.

How Much Do Monet Compact Mirrors Cost?

Monet compact mirrors range widely in price depending on age, materials, condition, and design details:

• Vintage compacts can cost $50 to over $300. More elaborate gold tone filigree or mother of pearl inlay pieces fetch higher prices from collectors.
• Modern Monet compacts retail between $20 to $75 at most stores. Simple silver tone metal compacts with clean lines are very affordable.
• Handcrafted or limited edition Monet mirrors can cost $100 to $250. These specialty pieces use 14k gold, genuine gems or are numbered collector’s items.
• Cheap knockoffs imitating the Monet name are usually under $20. But inferior quality means skipping these is best.

When buying vintage, having the original case and good condition raises the value. Be sure to budget for any repairs or restoration needed on true antique Monet pieces as well.

Tips for Collecting Vintage Monet Compact Mirrors

For many fashion history fans, collecting vintage Monet compacts is a beloved hobby. Here are some top tips for starting your own Monet mirror collection:

• Focus on a specific era or motif like Art Deco or floral designs to create a cohesive visual collection.
• Look for compacts in excellent condition with no tarnishing, damage, or rust. Imperfections lower resale value.
• Handwritten marks like initials or signatures inside the compact add character. But avoid engraved names or dates on the outside.
• Rare styles like large “jumbo” sized mirrors or mother of pearl inlay command higher prices due to low availability.
• Look for compacts with the original Monet pouch or box. Complete sets in great condition have the most value for serious collectors.
• Research approximate values online using collector forums and price guides so you don’t overpay.
• Invest in a vintage jewelry reference book to educate yourself on common brand hallmarks and materials.

Building a collection over time can be satisfying and the vintage Monet designs will never go out of style.

Caring for Your Monet Jewelry Compact

Monet compacts may be delicate vintage accessories, but with proper care they can last a lifetime. Here are some tips for keeping your Monet mirror in great shape:

• Gently wipe the outside case with a soft polishing cloth to maintain the metal’s shine and remove minor scratches.
• Use an eyeshadow brush to delicately dust away any loose powder around the mirror pane interior.
• Never immerse the compact in water. Just use a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol to spot clean the glass.
• If hinges loosen, use a drop of silicone lubricant to improve opening and closing motion.
• Store in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent mirror silvering deterioration.
• Place in a fabric pouch or box to protect the compact from scratches when storing or traveling.
• Avoid getting perfumes, creams, or makeup remover on the metal case as these can tarnish the finish.
• Use cotton gloves when handling vintage compacts to prevent natural skin oils from damaging the delicate materials.

With proper precautions, your Monet jewelry compact can stay pristine and continue looking fabulous for generations to come!

Finding Deals and Discounts on Monet Products

Monet jewelry and compact mirrors often have high retail price tags for their exceptional quality and collectibility. But savvy shoppers can find great deals with these money-saving tips:

• Check the Monet website for online specials and coupon codes you can apply at checkout for % discounts. Signing up for their email list provides exclusive subscriber promos.
• Department stores may discount Monet pieces during major seasonal sales events, especially around the holidays. The clearance racks can have hidden gems.
• Small boutiques that carry Monet may be open to bargaining, especially for lightly damaged packaging or discontinued styles. Doesn’t hurt to politely ask!
• Scour secondhand stores and estate sales for previously owned vintage Monet in good shape. You can scoop up fabulous deals this way.
• Online auction sites like eBay frequently offer pre-owned Monet compacts at heavily reduced prices, but be vigilant about spotting counterfeit goods.
• Buy Monet items as gifts during the holiday season for savings opportunities through retailer gift card promotions and bundled offers.

With flexibility and smart timing, you can add beautiful Monet style to your accessories collection without the normally steep prices!

Customer Reviews: The Good and Bad on Monet Compact Mirrors

Monet compact mirrors elicit strong opinions both for and against. Here’s an overview of the most common customer reviews:

Satisfied buyers praise Monet compacts for:

• Timeless elegant vintage styling at affordable prices
• Good substantial weight and sturdy feel
• Generous mirror size with clear reflection
• Easy to hold shape with smooth finish
• Attention to detail in ornate decorative accents
• Fun to collect multiple patterns and materials
• Nice gift box presentation for giving

Negative critiques from unhappy reviewers focus on:

• Small compact size being harder to handle
• Cheap feel due to lightweight materials
• Mirrors scratching or fogging up easily
• Tarnishing and fading over time with use
• Flimsy hinges breaking quickly
• Lack of magnification mirror options
• Newer styles lacking the quality of vintage

The overwhelming majority of reviews rate their satisfaction with Monet compacts highly. But studying the constructive feedback can help you determine which size, style, and features appeal most to your needs.

Choosing the Perfect Size Monet Compact Mirror for You

Monet makes their classic compact mirrors in a few different diameter sizes:

Small 1.5 to 1.75 inch compacts:

• Ultra portable and lightweight for carrying in tiny purses
• Palm-sized for easy grip and discreet use on-the-go
• Limited viewing area in small mirror
• Can feel fiddly for larger hands

Standard 2 to 2.25 inch compacts:

• Ideal medium size suits most users
• Substantial mirror while still fitting comfortably in hand
• Easier control than oversized styles
• Stows nicely in most handbags

Oversized 2.5 to 3 inch compacts:

• Makes a bold statement
• Broad reflective surface for flawless makeup application
• Heavier weight can feel clunky for petite frames
• Difficult to fit in some smaller purses

When selecting your ideal Monet compact mirror size, consider portability vs visibility needs. The standard 2 inch diameter offers the perfect balance for most shoppers. But if traveling light, downsize to a dainty mini style or size up for maximum mirror coverage.

Vintage Monet Compacts: Recognizing Genuine Retro Style

Glamorous vintage Monet compacts are highly coveted by collectors, so being able to identify authentic retro pieces is important. Here’s how to spot the real deal:

• Ornate engraved filigree or Art Deco geometric details like sharp chevrons patterns and angular lines
• Softer engraved floral designs like realistic roses rather than minimal abstract blooms
• High quality rhinestones, not flat glittery plastic “jewels”
• Substantial compact weight and buttery smooth opening mechanism
• Distinctive patina that comes from age, not fake tarnishing
• Foxed mirror silvering and minor brassing on metal edging
• Felt or velvet linings inside rather than modern microfiber
• Labels with vintage logos, like the capital M with a crown
• No “Made in China” stamps which indicates later production runs
• Styling reflects looks popular in the 1930s through 1960s eras

Owning a well-preserved vintage Monet compact provides a tangible connection to the Hollywood glamour and sophistication of the past.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Monet Compact Mirror Options

For the earth-conscious shopper, Monet offers some sustainable compact mirror options:

• Recycled Brass Collections: Cases crafted from recycled and reclaimed brass sourced responsibly.
• Vegan Leather Compacts: Modern compacts framed in animal-friendly faux leather, cork, or other vegan materials.
• Vintage and Antique Finds: Opt for pre-owned vintage Monet to prevent new materials from being wasted.
• Free Repairs: Monet offers free repairs on their pieces to extend the product lifecycle.
• Made in America: Some designs are hand assembled stateside from local suppliers which cuts back on transport emissions.
• Wooden Display Boxes: Seek out compacts sold with biodegradable wooden gift boxes instead of plastics.
• Charitable Partnerships: Monet often teams up with causes like breast cancer research and sustainability initiatives.
• Limited Runs: Collectible capsule collections have smaller batches which reduces industrial waste.

While Monet isn’t 100% eco-friendly, purse lovers looking fabulous can still feel good supporting their greener initiatives.

Essential Accessory: Compact Mirror Cases

A compact mirror case is a handbag essential for protecting your Monet jewelry compact while stowing it away. Here are handy features to look for in a case:

• Plush padding to prevent the compact from bumping around and getting scratched. Microfiber, satin, or velvet work well.
• A secure closure like a zipper, snap button, or elastic band to keep the compact safely inside when closed.
• Either a transparent vinyl window or a lid that flips open so you can view the compact inside without removing it.
• Wrist strap or key ring attachment option to keep the case tethered in your bag. Avoid misplacing a loose pouch.
• Compact silhouette and slim profile to minimize bulk inside your purse while still fitting the compact snugly.
• Durable fabrics that are stain resistant like nylon, vinyl, or faux leather since makeup messes happen!

Look for cases designed specifically for a 2 inch compact size. Monet’s vintage compacts look so lovely, a protective case is a fashionable necessity for daily use.

Gifting Monet Compact Mirrors with Style

The timeless beauty of Monet compacts makes them an ideal gift for any special occasion. Here are creative presentation ideas:

• For birthdays, include the honoree’s birth flower engraved compact with the birth month stone color eyeshadow palette for a coordinated set.
• For Christmas, bundle the compact with luxe gold applicator brushes in a festive red and green gift box.
• For Mother’s Day, pair a floral filigree compact with a silk scarf in matching soft shades wrapped in tissue paper.
• For weddings, enclose a jeweled compact with coordinating crystal earrings and a sweet love note.
• For anniversaries, present a vintage compact from the couple’s decade alongside cinema tickets to a classic romance movie.
• For graduation gifts, give a motivational compact engraved with an inspiring mantra and a set of pearl hair clips.
• For Galentine’s Day, load a pretty compact with friendship confetti and add mini bubbly bottles.

With so many options, a Monet compact mirror makes finding a thoughtful present for any recipient easy!

Storing Your Monet Compact Mirror for Display or Travel

Monet compact mirrors deserve a place of pride wherever you keep your beauty essentials at home. Or if traveling, they need safe portability. Here are smart storage solutions:

For vanity display:

• Stand upright in a decorative glass or crystal tray, dish, or vase. Elevates it to an art object.
• Place on a small easel stand so the compact sits propped open to use. Frees up hand space.
• Arrange by color on clear acrylic risers or tiered trays. Fun way to coordinate a collection.
• Set on a velvet jewelry bust to show off the compact while keeping dust away.

For travel packing:

• Wrap in a dedicated compact mirror sleeve or pouch for scratch protection.
• Slip into a padded makeup bag alongside everyday cosmetics to keep handy.
• Pack inside dresser drawer dividers so items don’t shift mid-transit.
• Use foldable acrylic cosmetic organizers with compact specific slots.

Proper storage keeps your Monet compacts in pristine and primed condition whenever glamour calls.

Why Monet Compact Mirrors are So Lightweight

The lightweight feel of Monet compact mirrors makes them easy to tuck into a purse or suitcase. But how do they keep the weight down?

• Thin metal alloy like titanium, aluminum, or enameled steel keeps the frame slender yet durable. No bulky materials.
• Hollow design rather than a solid metal block. The empty inside reduces overall heft.
• Small proportions around 2 inches maximize portability. Going oversized adds weight.
• Mirror panels made from lightweight acrylic plastic or thin glass, not heavy leaded crystal.
• No additional embellishments beyond the essential mirrored lid and base. Extra dangly charms or chains increase ounces.
• Modern engineering like laser cutting creates ultra precise, minimized dimensions with no excess material.

The compact styling concentrates luxury features into an easy to manage shape. Carrying your glamorous Monet mirror all day is achievable thanks to the thoughtful lightweight construction.

The Stylish Versatility of Monet Compact Mirrors

Monet compact mirrors are a timeless cosmetic accessory that complements various occasions and outfits. Their versatility makes them a wardrobe staple.

• Daywear: A floral engraved silver tone compact adds polish to casual jeans and tee.
• Workwear: A textured tortoiseshell compact pairs perfectly with business attire and commutes.
• Cocktail parties: A glittering jeweled compact completes an LBD for special events.
• Dinners out: A geometric vintage gold compact matches heels and a clutch for dates.
• Travel: A faux leather compact stashes nicely in carry-ons while being TSA friendly.
• Weddings: A mother of pearl compact pulls together formal gowns and updos.
• Gala events: Filigree compacts feel at home with ball gowns and opera gloves.

Monet compacts suit any personal style or occasion, whether you’re dressing up or keeping it low-key. Their timeless charm works for every woman.

Magnifying Mirrors for Makeup Application from Monet

Applying makeup requires good visibility. Some Monet compact mirrors offer magnification features to help you apply your cosmetics flawlessly:

• 5x or 7x magnified inset mirrors: A small magnifying pane is embedded inside the lid opposite the main mirror.
• Flip-up magnifying panels: Concealed panels release to pop up and enlarge a specific area.
• Bi-fold magnification: Compacts open vertically to double interior mirrors, with one side magnified.
• Lighted magnification: Surrounding LED lights illuminate the magnified area for precision.
• Magnifying suction attachments: Attach removable magnifying films to customize magnification strength.
• Handheld or standing magnifiers: Use secondary lenses for super close-up work like tweezing.
• Prescription strengths: For those needing reading or close-up vision correction.

With magnified viewing options, Monet compacts allow you to apply eyeliner, mascara, and lip color precisely. Tiny tweaks become easier to see and get right.

Picking the Perfect Color Family for Your Monet Compact Mirror

Monet makes their signature compact mirrors in a spectrum of colors to coordinate with your personal style:

Warm metallic tones:

• Yellow gold – Rich and luxurious
• Rose gold – Romantic and feminine
• Bronze – Sophisticated vintage patina

Cool metallic tones:

• Sterling silver – Clean and polished
• Gunmetal – Edgy and modern
• Frosted platinum – Minimalist and futuristic

Vibrant shades:

• Fiery reds and coral – Daring and bold
• Ocean blues – Playful pops of color
• Deep turquoise – Mystical and exotic
• Fuchsia pinks – Sweet but edgy
• Purples – Royal elegance

With an array of color options, you can select a Monet compact mirror that perfectly captures your personal style and brings you joy each time you use it.

The Takeaway: Why Monet Jewelry Compact Mirrors Are Worth the Investment

For over 90 years the Monet brand has been synonymous with impeccable style and quality. Their compact mirrors carry on this legacy with their diverse range of designs that suit every taste. More than a practical cosmetic accessory, Monet compacts are decorative objects that add artistry and luxury to daily life. Treasure your Monet compact mirror by caring for it properly and it will become your trusted beauty companion for years to come!