A breathtaking piece from one of the most celebrated lines in American costume jewelry history - the 1965 Trifari "Jewels of India" collection, designed by the legendary Alfred Philippe in the final years of his storied career.
This magnificent butterfly brooch is a true collector's statement piece. The wings are densely set with hand-placed pavé crystals that catch the light from every angle, accented with vivid faux emerald green, ruby red, and sapphire blue cabochons. The body features a large oval faux emerald cabochon at center, with a round faux sapphire cabochon above it, flanked by ruby red pear-shaped cabochons, and a green teardrop stone below. It is substantial, detailed, and unmistakably luxurious in hand.
Measurements: Approximately 2⅜" wide x 1¾" tall
Materials: Gold-plated base metal, pavé crystal rhinestones, faux emerald, ruby, and sapphire glass cabochons
Condition: Excellent. All cabochons and crystals are present and secure. No chips, cracks, or missing stones. Gold plating is bright and even, with minimal if any notable wear. The brooch pin mechanism functions perfectly.
Hallmark: Stamped on reverse: Crown Trifari © R
________________________________________
A Brief History:
Trifari was founded in New York in 1918 by Gustavo Trifari, the grandson of a Neapolitan goldsmith. The brand's transformation into an American institution began in 1930 with the hiring of Alfred Philippe, a master craftsman who had previously worked at both Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels. Philippe brought fine jewelry standards to costume jewelry - hand-set crystals, delicate settings, and sophisticated design - blurring the line between fashion and fine.
The "Jewels of India" collection was introduced in 1965 as one of Philippe's final and most celebrated series before his retirement in 1968. Drawing on the opulent gem-set jewelry traditions of the Mughal era, the line featured richly colored faux cabochon stones in emerald, ruby, and sapphire tones, set in pavé crystal-encrusted gold-plated settings. It remains one of the most sought-after Trifari lines among serious collectors today.
This piece was acquired from an estate where it was kept in its original, undisturbed condition - a rarity for a 60-year-old piece.
The companion bracelet and pierced earrings from this set are available separately in my shop.
✨If you would like to purchase a larger quantity than what is listed, please contact me before placing your order. I do have multiples of some items.✨
A breathtaking piece from one of the most celebrated lines in American costume jewelry history - the 1965 Trifari "Jewels of India" collection, designed by the legendary Alfred Philippe in the final years of his storied career.
This magnificent butterfly brooch is a true collector's statement piece. The wings are densely set with hand-placed pavé crystals that catch the light from every angle, accented with vivid faux emerald green, ruby red, and sapphire blue cabochons. The body features a large oval faux emerald cabochon at center, with a round faux sapphire cabochon above it, flanked by ruby red pear-shaped cabochons, and a green teardrop stone below. It is substantial, detailed, and unmistakably luxurious in hand.
Measurements: Approximately 2⅜" wide x 1¾" tall
Materials: Gold-plated base metal, pavé crystal rhinestones, faux emerald, ruby, and sapphire glass cabochons
Condition: Excellent. All cabochons and crystals are present and secure. No chips, cracks, or missing stones. Gold plating is bright and even, with minimal if any notable wear. The brooch pin mechanism functions perfectly.
Hallmark: Stamped on reverse: Crown Trifari © R
________________________________________
A Brief History:
Trifari was founded in New York in 1918 by Gustavo Trifari, the grandson of a Neapolitan goldsmith. The brand's transformation into an American institution began in 1930 with the hiring of Alfred Philippe, a master craftsman who had previously worked at both Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels. Philippe brought fine jewelry standards to costume jewelry - hand-set crystals, delicate settings, and sophisticated design - blurring the line between fashion and fine.
The "Jewels of India" collection was introduced in 1965 as one of Philippe's final and most celebrated series before his retirement in 1968. Drawing on the opulent gem-set jewelry traditions of the Mughal era, the line featured richly colored faux cabochon stones in emerald, ruby, and sapphire tones, set in pavé crystal-encrusted gold-plated settings. It remains one of the most sought-after Trifari lines among serious collectors today.
This piece was acquired from an estate where it was kept in its original, undisturbed condition - a rarity for a 60-year-old piece.
The companion bracelet and pierced earrings from this set are available separately in my shop.
✨If you would like to purchase a larger quantity than what is listed, please contact me before placing your order. I do have multiples of some items.✨
Image 1 of 14
Image 2 of 14
Image 3 of 14
Image 4 of 14
Image 5 of 14
Image 6 of 14
Image 7 of 14
Image 8 of 14
Image 9 of 14
Image 10 of 14
Image 11 of 14
Image 12 of 14
Image 13 of 14
Image 14 of 14
