70s PURPLE ENAMEL EARRINGS

1970s Trifari gold plated purple enamel button stud earrings.

2.5cm diameter, stud back, in great condition.

Trifari

One of the most popular and sought-after vintage jewelry brands, Trifari was known for its high quality and fashion forward costume jewelry designs. Highly respected, Trifari had a loyal client base, from celebrities to the everyday woman.

Trifari was established by Italian Gustavo Trifari, Leo Krussman and Carl Fishel in 1925. The company began by creating jewelry for actors in Hollywood, which raised the profile of the brand. It also capitalised on the increase in interest in costume jewelry, which came about during the Great Depression, when women couldn’t afford expensive fine jewelry.

When renowned French jewelry designer Alfred Philippe (formerly at Van Cleef and Arpels) brought his expertise to the table, Trifari was transformed. Philippe remained at Trifari until his retirement in 1968 and it’s largely due to his ideas and vision that Trifari became a household name with pieces that are still collectible today.

Philippe brought techniques that he had developed for his previous company, such as the use of invisible settings for gemstones. These new techniques made Trifari jewelry distinguished and unique. Today, many collectors look for authentic early Trifari designs signed by Philippe himself. These still have high value and collectability.