Trifari

Costume jewelry maker Trifari is widely loved for its fine craftsmanship and complex designs for necklaces, brooches and other jewelry and accessories.

The company was formed in New York during the early 1920s, when its partners Gustavo Trifari (who descended from a family of jewelers), Leo Krussman and Carl Fishel (business associates in hair-ornament manufacturing) recognized, as other designers during the Art Deco era such as Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel had, that fashion trends for affordable jewelry for everyday wear represented an opportunity (and that the popularity of shorter hairstyles didn’t bode well for their haircomb business).

Initially called Trifari, Krussman and Fishel Jewelry (T.K.F.), the trio eventually shortened their brand’s name, at the suggestion of an advertising professional, to Trifari in order to evoke the romance of Gustavo’s native Italy.

The hiring of French designer Alfred Philippe as head designer in 1930 was pivotal to Trifari’s success. A master craftsman who had worked with both Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels, Philippe set about establishing the same high-quality standards of materials and craftsmanship in the design of fashion jewelry and trained other Trifari artisans to do the same. Settings were delicate; crystals were hand set; designs, which sometimes featured dazzling floral motifs or exquisite depictions of marine life, were sophisticated and elegant, having both the look and feel of fine jewelry. First Lady Mamie Eisenhower wore a Trifari parure of faux pearls to her husband’s presidential inauguration in 1953 and Trifari glass pearls to his inaugural ball in 1957.

Before retiring in 1968, Philippe created Trifari’s most recognizable designs. In the 1930s, when the company was custom-making accessories for the stars of Broadway musicals, it was the crown motif: These brooches became so often identified with the brand that a crown was eventually incorporated into the trademark. In the 1940s, the “Jelly Bellies” inspired affection as well as knockoffs; these were animals, birds and insects sporting a “belly” of clear Lucite. Clip-Mates were another favorite and a technical marvel — two dress clips that, joined together, created a brooch.

Find a wide range of vintage Trifari jewelry on 1stDibs.

Designer: Trifari

Vintage Crown Trifari Jewelled Snake Belt Rare 1960s

$1,623

Vintage Crown Trifari Jewelled Snake Belt Rare 1960s

By Trifari

Located in Wilmslow, GB

A dramatic vintage Trifari snake belt from the 1960s, embodying the bold elegance that defined the brand’s most collectible period. Trifari’s designs are renowned for their sculptura...

Category

1960s Trifari

1960s Trifari Blue and White Stripe Sunglasses

$300

1960s Trifari Blue and White Stripe Sunglasses

By Trifari

Located in Toronto, Ontario

These are the perfect sunglasses for a whirlwind European vacation! Cerulean, navy blue and white vertical stripe cat eye sunglasses by Trifari, best...

Category

1960s Italian Trifari

Trifari Gilded Gold Vermeil "Link" Brooch

$485

Trifari Gilded Gold Vermeil "Link" Brooch

By Trifari

Located in New York, NY

Trifari Gilded gold vermeil finish "Link" brooch measures 2 1/2" in length, 7/16" in height and 2/8" in depth. The brooch is signed on the backside.

Category

1970s American Trifari

Trifari Multi-Color Floral Ear Clips

$785

Trifari Multi-Color Floral Ear Clips

By Trifari

Located in New York, NY

Trifari multi-color floral style ear clips with gold hardware measures 1 1/8" in circumference and 3/8" in depth.

Category

1970s American Trifari

Trifari Huge SIlver Rhinestone Brooch

$450

Trifari Huge SIlver Rhinestone Brooch

By Trifari

Located in New York, NY

Trifari huge brooch measuring 1 3/4" in diameter is detailed with multi-shaped glass rhinestones. Gilded silver hardware frame.

Category

1970s American Trifari

Trifari Complete with Box Necklace, Bracelet and Earrings

$3,800

Trifari Complete with Box Necklace, Bracelet and Earrings

By Trifari

Located in New York, NY

Trifari Wonderful set complete of gilded silver hardware finish, accented with multi-size rhinestones comes with the original box, Necklace, bracelet and earrings are set with wonder...

Category

1960s American Trifari

Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama A Red Polka Dot Key Pouch

$746

W 11.5 in

Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama A Red Polka Dot Key Pouch

By Louis Vuitton

Located in London, England

Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama A Red Polka Dot Key Pouch, 2023. The Louis Vuitton Yayoi Kusama Pochette Cle is a stylish pouch designed in a striking red and white color scheme, crafte...

Category

2010s Trifari

Hermes Curiosite Kelly Laque Charm Black / Gold Pendant NEW

$595

Hermes Curiosite Kelly Laque Charm Black / Gold Pendant NEW

Located in New York, NY

Guaranteed authentic Hermes Curiosite Kelly Laque charm Black with in Gold tone . Shaped like a Kelly Bag, the charm is beautifully detailed! Desig...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Trifari

Gucci GG Supreme Black Canvas 474293 Belt Bag

$710

H 5.75 in W 9.75 in D 2.25 in

Gucci GG Supreme Black Canvas 474293 Belt Bag

By Gucci, MAURIZIO GUCCI

Located in Houston, US

Brand: Gucci Measurements(W x H x D): 9.75" x 5.75" x 2.25" Total Weight: 360.00 grams GUCCI GG Supreme Black canvas 474293 Belt Bag. Engraved with "Made In Italy". The "Gucci"...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Trifari

LOUIS VUITTON black Epi leather ZIPPY Wallet

$850

LOUIS VUITTON black Epi leather ZIPPY Wallet

By Louis Vuitton

Located in Zürich, CH

100% authentic Louis Vuitton Zippy wallet in black Epi leather with an all-round zip, which opens to reveal multiple card slots, pockets and compartments. The design features silver-...

Category

Early 2000s Italian Trifari

Gianfranco Ferré leather belt

$794

Gianfranco Ferré leather belt

By Gianfranco Ferré

Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR

GIANFRANCO FERRÉ - (Made in Italy) Brown leather belt with a golden and silvery metal buckle and a magnifying glass. Condition: Good condition Dimensions: Size 70 SKU:ACC246

Category

Early 2000s Italian Trifari

Vintage Christian Dior leather belt

$590

L 31.5 in

Vintage Christian Dior leather belt

By Christian Dior

Located in New York, NY

Vintage Christian Dior beige leather belt with silver-tone hardware. Closed with a hook on front “CD” with leather details charm Size – 80 cm...

Category

Early 2000s French Trifari

Chanel Sunglasses Vintage 90's Paris CC Logo

$3,282

Chanel Sunglasses Vintage 90's Paris CC Logo

By Chanel

Located in Roosendaal, NL

From the collection of SAVINETI we offer these Chanel Vintage Sunglasses: - Brand: Chanel - Model: Round Logo Sunglasses - Year: 90's - Condition: Good Fashion statements, Chanel’s eyewear...

Category

1990s European Trifari

Hermes Constance Wallet Black Epsom Leather Rose Gold Hardware

$5,500

Hermes Constance Wallet Black Epsom Leather Rose Gold Hardware

By Hermès

Located in Sydney, New South Wales

The Hermes Constance Wallet in Black Epsom Leather with Rose Gold Hardware is a stylish and refined accessory. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this wallet showcases the ...

Category

2010s French Trifari

Cute Hermès Budy Bag Charm Buddy Fox Terrier Dog Wool Sesame Leather

$1,172

H 3.15 in W 2.37 in L 5.91 in

Cute Hermès Budy Bag Charm Buddy Fox Terrier Dog Wool Sesame Leather

By Hermès

Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique

Adorable Authentic Hermès Bag Charm In shape of a Fox Terrier dog Made of Merinos Wool and Milo lambskin Leather Colorway: Sesame Stamp U for 2022 "HERMÈS PARIS MADE IN FRANCE"...

Category

2010s French Trifari

Hermes Stippled Gold-Toned Metal Belt Buckle

$1,100

Hermes Stippled Gold-Toned Metal Belt Buckle

By Hermès

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Hermes Stippled Gold-Toned Metal Belt Buckle Textured finish, new with dust bag and box. Height 1.5 in., 4 cm., Width 2.5 in., 6 cm. Condition Report New.

Category

20th Century Trifari

Gucci GG Monogram Supreme Tigers Black Leather Bestiary Belt Bag

$710

H 5.5 in W 9.25 in D 1 in

Gucci GG Monogram Supreme Tigers Black Leather Bestiary Belt Bag

By Gucci

Located in Houston, US

Brand: Gucci Measurements (W x H x D): 9.25" x 5.5" x 2" Weight: 425.00 grams Gucci GG monogram supreme tigers black leather belt bag. The "Gucci" trademark (or hallmark) can also...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Trifari

Hermès Shotgun Shells Seven Pencils Holder by Ravinet d'Enfert Bullets Shaped

$2,219

H 2.13 in Dm 2.96 in

Hermès Shotgun Shells Seven Pencils Holder by Ravinet d'Enfert Bullets Shaped

By Hermès

Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique

Exceptional and Rare Authentic Hermès 7 Pencils Holder In shape of shotgun cartridges No datation - probably vintage The bottom of the shells is golden, the body is silvery The base of the pencils holder is covered with navy blue leather "HERMES PARIS" engraved on the hardware and Ravinet d'Enfert craftsman's hallmark "HERMÈS PARIS" in golden letters on the leather Measurements: - 5,4 cm at highest (2,12 inches) - diameter of base is 7,5 cm (2,95 inches) - inner diameter of each shell is 1,1 cm (0,43 inch) Condition: Near new condition. NO ink traces May...

Category

Late 20th Century Unknown Trifari

Previously Available Items

Vintage Trifari Gold Chain Belt

Sold

Size: one size fits most

Vintage Trifari Gold Chain Belt

By Trifari

Located in New York, NY

Made in the 1960s by Trifari, this gold chain belt easily elevates any look. The craftsmanship is so beautiful, and can be attributed to Alfred Philippe, Trifari's designer from 1930-1968, who was already famous for developing an invisible stone setting for Van Cleef & Arpels. Alfred Philippe, Trifari's designer from 1930-1968, was responsible for developing the famous invisible stone setting for Van Cleef & Arpels. It closes with a hook that can be attached numerous places, making the fit customizable (between 27" to about 32.75") Branded with the signature Trifari hanging charm. **The Vintage Versace Print...

Category

1960s American Trifari

Trifari Opulent Art Deco Jewels of India Compact c 1950

Sold

W 2.25 in D 0.75 in L 3.25 in

Trifari Opulent Art Deco Jewels of India Compact c 1950

By Trifari

Located in University City, MO

Trifari Opulent Art Deco "Jewels of India" compact c 1950 The exquisite designer compact is encrusted with ruby glass & crystal sapphire glass settings The ornate d...

Category

1950s American Trifari

Trifari Gold & Enamel Floral Brooch

Sold

H 1.5 in W 2 in

Trifari Gold & Enamel Floral Brooch

By Trifari

Located in New York, NY

Trifari gilded gold hardware with creamy enamel finish floral brooch measures 2" in width and 1 1/2" in height.

Category

1970s American Trifari

Trifari Large Gilded Gold & Coral Brooch

Sold

D 0.5 in Dm 2.24 in

Trifari Large Gilded Gold & Coral Brooch

By Trifari

Located in New York, NY

Trifari's large gilded gold with coral brooch has a three-D effect and wonderfully centered with a gold ball. Tips are finished with gold tips for added protection when worn. Measure...

Category

1960s American Trifari

Trifari Pop Striped Sunglasses

Sold

Trifari Pop Striped Sunglasses

By Trifari

Located in New York, NY

Vintage pop art Trifari black and white stripe bakelite glasses from the 1960s.
exterior 5 7/8 or 15mm
arm 5.25" or 13mm
interior hinge to hinge 5.25" or 13mm

Category

1960s American Trifari

Trifari fashion for sale on 1stDibs.

Find an extraordinary range of authentic Trifari fashion available on 1stDibs. Customers who are interested in this designer might also find the work of Lilly Daché, Herbert Levine, and Evans Case Company appealing. On 1stDibs, find haute couture, vintage and designer Trifari fashion from top boutiques around the world. Trifari fashion prices can differ depending upon time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $235 and tops out at $3,800, while the average work can sell for $468.

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Questions About Trifari

What is the difference between Trifari and Crown Trifari?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
The difference between Trifari and Crown Trifari comes down to age. When Gustavo Trifari founded his eponymous jewelry house in 1904, the hallmark he used on pieces was a simple T. Around 1937, Trifari began adding a crown to its hallmarks. As a result, Crown Trifari jewelry tends to include newer vintage pieces, while regular Trifari jewelry includes both vintage and antique pieces. Explore a wide variety of Trifari jewelry on 1stDibs.
How do you identify a Trifari brooch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024
To identify a Trifari brooch, turn it over and look for a maker's mark. Most Trifari jewelry features one of several backstamps. The earliest pieces made by the American jewelry brand usually read "KTF," for Trifari, Krussman, and Fishel. During the early 1930s, the stamp changed to "TRIFARI PAT.PEND.," and in 1937, the company introduced its crown logo. Pieces dating from the mid-1950s to the mid-1980s will bear this logo plus a copyright symbol. Finally, the 1980s brought the addition of a “™” trademark marking. If you can't find a stamp or have difficulty reading it, you may wish to consult a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert. On 1stDibs, shop a range of Trifari brooches.
How do you identify a Trifari crown?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
To identify a Trifari crown, one option is to use trusted online resources. Trifari was famous for its crown logo, which it modified many times over the years. You can often determine approximately when your jewelry was made by looking at pictures of the crown logo from different eras. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can also be helpful when completing the identification process. Shop a wide variety of Trifari jewelry on 1stDibs.
How do I identify Trifari jewelry?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024
To identify Trifari jewelry, inspect its clasp, reverse, interior and other inconspicuous places for a maker's mark. The vast majority of Trifari jewelry will feature a mark. Prior to the 1930s, the American manufacturer used a "KTF" mark to signify its then-name “KTF," for Trifari, Krussman, and Fishel. The marking changed to "TRIFARI PAT.PEND." during the early 1930s and the company introduced its crown logo to its hallmarks in 1937. Starting in the mid-1950s, Trifari began placing a copyright symbol alongside its markings. Items produced during the 1980s and onwards will also bear a trademark symbol. Should you be unable to locate any maker's markings, consider having a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer evaluate your jewelry. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Trifari jewelry.
Is Trifari real silver?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
Yes, some Trifari jewelry is real silver. However, most silver-toned pieces produced by the American jewelry maker are made from a proprietary tarnish-resistant metal alloy called Trifarium rather than sterling silver. The company’s fashion jewelry was pioneered by Alfred Philippe, who was hired as head designer in 1930, with the pieces that he and other Trifari artisans produced having both the look and feel of fine jewelry. Explore a collection of Trifari jewelry on 1stDibs.
Is Trifari jewelry always marked?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Trifari was always diligent in marking its jewelry, and the mark has evolved over the years. There were a few pieces in the early years that went unmarked, but those pieces are extremely rare. Costume jewelry maker Trifari is widely beloved for its fine craftsmanship and complex designs for necklaces, brooches and other accessories. On 1stDibs, you can find a collection of authentic Trifari jewelry pieces from some of the world’s top sellers.
Is Trifari jewelry real gold?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 5, 2024
Whether Trifari jewelry is real gold depends on its age. Jewelry produced by the brand between 1904 and 1946 usually features genuine gold, but newer pieces typically do not. In 1947, the jewelry maker introduced a patented metal alloy. Its unique properties meant that the alloy would resist tarnishing, and accessories made with the alloy could be plated with other metals to create a gold- or platinum-toned finish. Trifari called this base metal Trifanium. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of vintage Trifari jewelry and other costume jewelry.
How do you identify Alfred Philippe Trifari?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
To identify Alfred Philippe Trifari, first, you'll need to double-check that the piece is a Trifari and estimate its approximate age using the maker's marks. You can find these marks on clasps, backs and other hidden areas. Alfred Philippe served as the head designer for Trifari from 1930 to 1968. During his tenure, Trifari jewelry typically displayed the brand's crown logo and did not bear a TM trademark symbol. If your piece lacks a crown or has a TM symbol present, it's unlikely to be an Alfred Philippe. Should your piece have the correct markings, the next step is to familiarize yourself with Philippe's designs. One way to do so is to search for his name on trusted patent research websites. You can then review the search results to see if you find a match for your item. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer perform the identification process for you. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Trifari jewelry.
When did Trifari stop making jewelry?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
One of the most highly sought after vintage jewelry brands, Trifari was in operation from the 1910s until the year 2000. After a long and colorful history, Trifari continues to make jewelry as a Liz Claiborne subsidiary. On 1stDibs, get the real deal and shop vintage Trifari jewelry from some of the top sellers on 1stDibs.
When did Alfred Philippe design for Trifari?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Designer Alfred Philippe was the head designer for Trifari from 1930 until 1968. Philippe was also a designer for Cartier, Van Cleef and Arples and became very popular and well-known for his creations. One of his big fans was the First Lady of the United States, Mamie Eisenhower. Shop a collection of authentic Trifari jewelry and brooches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
Is Trifari jewelry still made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
No, Trifari jewelry is no longer made. In 1994, Liz Claiborne Group purchased the fashion jewelry brand. Over the years that followed, the brand was resold several times, and production of Trifari jewelry gradually declined until its discontinuation in the late 2000s. Shop an assortment of Trifari jewelry on 1stDibs.
How can you tell how old Trifari jewelry is?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 15, 2024
To tell how old Trifari jewelry is, use the maker's markings. The jewelry maker changed their maker's hallmarks many times over the years, so by comparing the marks present on your jewelry to information shared on trusted online resources, you can roughly calculate its age. For example, a piece marked “KTF” was most likely made in the 1920s or early ’30s, while one bearing a “TRIFARI PAT. PEND.” marking with no crown logo likely dates back to the late 1930s or ’40s. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can also help you date your jewelry. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Trifari jewelry.
Did Trifari ever make real gold jewelry?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
Yes, Trifari did make real gold jewelry. Early pieces made between 1904 and 1946 often feature genuine gold. Trifari also produced a limited-edition genuine gold collection during the early 1970s. On 1stDibs, shop a range of Trifari jewelry from some of the world's top sellers.