What's for sale?
This is an early Trifari, key-shaped brooch in Sterling silver. It was one of Alfred Philippe's designs, patented in 1947, and was originally vermeil (gold-plated silver).
The design comprises a three pointed crown, twelve glass crystals arranged in a circle around a metal flower, two small gemstones on a sleeve, six smaller glass gems along the stem and then the bit, which is cut with three crosses.
Alfred Philippe was Trifari's head designer from 1930 until 1968. Their crown brooches were very successful, as were other designs featuring crowns, and a crown symbol was incorporated into the Trifari logo later on.
The condition is fair, although the appearance is still good. One of the small gemstones on the stem of the key is missing. There is little trace of the gold plating left on the front, although there's more gold visible on the back. We're assuming that a previous owner has polished off the remaining plating to improve the look. It certainly looks good in silver.
We've tested the metal as being .925 Sterling finesse silver. It's a very eye catching design, and would look great on a dark coloured scarf or lapel.
Who made it and when?
It was made by the American costume jewellery maker Trifari. It was patented on 8/7/1947 (number 147049) by Alfred Philippe. As this brooch is marked patent pending, it was probably made a little before then. The makers marks on the back read:
What condition is it in?
- Second-hand
- In fair to good condition
- Only traces of the gold plating remain on the front
- A small gemstone is missing
- The pin and clasp work perfectly
- Tests confirm .925 Sterling silver finesse
What are the measurements?
- 6.5cm in length
- 2cm wide at widest point
- 12 grams
If you have any questions, just send an email to help@3bcshop.com.
