HTF VTG Crown Trifari Phillippe Waterfall Companion Purple Opera Necklace
Step back in time to an era of unparalleled elegance, where every piece of jewelry told a story of glamour and sophistication. This is more than a necklace; it is a tangible piece of mid-century American history, a stunning artifact from the storied house of Trifari.
As the most celebrated name in American costume jewelry, Trifari achieved its legendary status under the visionary leadership of its head designer, Alfred Philippe. Alfred Philippe, a master craftsman with a background at esteemed fine jewelry houses like Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels, brought a new level of artistry to costume pieces, designing with the precision and grace of fine jewelry.
His work transformed Trifari, setting a standard for quality and design that remains unmatched. This necklace is a magnificent example of his influence, embodying the very essence of the glamour he infused into the brand. This piece belongs to the iconic Trifari "Waterfall" series, a collection celebrated for its kinetic, flowing design that captures the graceful movement of cascading water. The design is a symphony of form and movement, with two lush strands of chain flowing from a single clasp. This specific necklace, however, stands out as a particularly rare and striking example.
Its true magic lies in the luminous, translucent fuchsia-toned Lucite beads that are the heart of its design. This is a color that commands attention and is known among collectors as a highly sought-after hue, distinguishing it from more common variations of the collection. The beads' deep, saturated purple hue allows light to pass through, creating an ethereal inner glow that changes with every movement.The craftsmanship is a testament to Trifari's superior quality. The beads are not merely strung on a chain; they are meticulously held in place by sophisticated crimped silver-tone settings, a detail that is a hallmark of early Trifari pieces and a clear sign of its high-quality construction.
These settings create a beautiful visual rhythm, alternating with sections of Trifari's distinctive twisted-rope chain. This texture adds a rich tactile quality and a sense of enduring solidity to the piece.
Its authenticity is beyond question, marked by the iconic "Crown T" hang tag, the universally recognized symbol of vintage Trifari quality from this esteemed era. To find a piece from this collection in such exceptional vintage condition is a rare opportunity. The Lucite beads are pristine, with no chips or scuffs, and the silver-tone plating remains vibrant, a testament to the famed Trifarium metal alloy known for its durability and shine. This is an opportunity to own not just a piece of jewelry, but a legacy of American artistry and design.