The Castlecraft Jewelry story begins with the story of Charles Ellis. A graduate of Greencastle High School, Charles underwent a 10 year period of hospitalization for Tuberculosis after spending one year in college. During his time in the Rockville, Indiana Sanatorium in the 1950's, he learned the art of wire wrapping alongside Alan Chamberlain and Bill May, turning this talent into a lucrative jewelry business with the help of fellow patients and staff. The jewelry created at the sanatorium was made under the name 'Hillcraft'.

 

After being discharged and returning home to Greencastle, Indiana, Charles continued to use these skills by creating his own jewelry company, choosing the name ‘Castlecraft’. Ellis, Chamberlain, and May remained friendly, often sharing designs, parts, and during busy times, even employees. Many pieces of Hillcraft and Castlecraft jewelry are nearly impossible to tell apart.

​

Mr. Ellis directed his staff in the making of earrings, neckpieces, arm ornaments, tie holders and many other affordable jewelry items. Simplicity of design characterized Castlecraft Jewelry. The high quality costume jewelry featured glass stones, beads, imitation jewels, and Swarovski crystals, and was entirely handcrafted.