Vintage Trifari Rhinestone Starburst Pendant with Faux Pearl Drop
Jewelry (Pendant/Necklace) · Trifari (Gustavo Trifari). Trifari is one of the most significant American costume jewelry manufacturers, known for high-quality craftsmanship that often rivaled fine jewelry.
Pattern: Rhinestone Floral/Starburst motif with teardrop accent; typically part of a set featuring matching clip earrings or a brooch.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Necklace)
Maker
Trifari (Gustavo Trifari). Trifari is one of the most significant American costume jewelry manufacturers, known for high-quality craftsmanship that often rivaled fine jewelry.
Material
Base metal with silver-tone plating (likely Trifanium, a proprietary alloy), clear glass rhinestones, and an imitation pearl.
Dimensions
Estimated 1.5 - 2 inches in length. Weight is likely between 5 to 10 grams, typical for costume jewelry of this era.
Description
A classic piece of mid-20th-century costume jewelry, this pendant showcases the elegance for which Trifari became famous. The starburst design catches light through multiple rhinestones, culminating in a sophisticated teardrop pearl imitation that adds movement and grace.
Key Features
Centered Trifari maker's mark, articulated drop, starburst motif, and typical high-polish back finishing characteristic of the brand.
Material & Composition
Base metal with silver-tone plating (likely Trifanium, a proprietary alloy), clear glass rhinestones, and an imitation pearl.
Finish & Decoration
Bright rhodium or silver plating with pavé-set rhinestones. Features a floral starburst design with a kinetic articulated drop element in the Mid-Century style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The 'TRIFARI' stamp is visible in the central oval cartouche on the reverse. The presence of a crown over the 'T' or a copyright symbol would further specify the exact production window.
Construction Details
Cast metal construction with hand-set stones. Features an articulated jump ring connection between the main starburst and the lower drop element.
Functional Features
Single bail at the top for a chain; articulated lower drop for movement while worn.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Jewelry bail only).
Craftsmanship Details
The piece displays excellent mold quality with minimal flash and a smooth 'poured' finish on the reverse, a hallmark of Trifari's superior plating process.
Authentication Indicators
The embossed TRIFARI mark in the cartouche is the primary indicator. The quality of the casting and the specific shape of the bail are consistent with period production.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, likely New York or Rhode Island where Trifari's main manufacturing facilities were located.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Retro (circa 1950s-1960s). This era favored rhodium finishes and 'faux fine' aesthetics.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965 based on the style of the stamp and the starburst aesthetic.
Cultural Significance
Trifari defined the 'American Look' in the mid-century, making high-fashion aesthetics accessible to the middle class through quality costume pieces.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Some light surface oxidation visible in the recesses; rhinestones appear intact but may have slight 'greying' due to age; plating appears largely intact.
Value Estimate
$35 - $75 USD depending on the presence of a matching chain and the clarity of the stones.
Care & Maintenance
Do not submerge in water or use silver dips as this will ruin the foil backing of the rhinestones. Clean with a dry, soft cloth or a very slightly damp Q-tip; store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
Coro or Eisenberg pieces of the same era. Coro is often lighter in weight, while Eisenberg usually features larger, higher-grade stones.
Interesting Facts
Trifari was the first jewelry company to use copyright symbols on their pieces (starting in 1955) to protect their designs after a landmark legal battle.