Elsa Peretti Starfish Ring in Sterling Silver for Tiffany & Co.
Jewelry (Ring) · Tiffany & Co., featuring a design by Elsa Peretti. Peretti was one of the most celebrated jewelry designers of the 20th century, known for her organic, sculptural aesthetic and long-standing exclusive partnership with Tiffany since 1974.
Pattern: Peretti Starfish Collection, introduced in the 1980s. It remains a staple design in the Tiffany contemporary catalog.
Type
Jewelry (Ring)
Maker
Tiffany & Co., featuring a design by Elsa Peretti. Peretti was one of the most celebrated jewelry designers of the 20th century, known for her organic, sculptural aesthetic and long-standing exclusive partnership with Tiffany since 1974.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid metal construction without stones or plating.
Dimensions
Top starfish motif approximately 15-20mm in diameter; total weight typically ranges from 4 to 8 grams depending on ring size.
Description
A fluid and evocative tribute to the wonders of the sea, this Elsa Peretti Starfish ring captures the delicate movement of marine life in solid sterling silver. The design is celebrated for its intentional asymmetry and tactile, sculptural quality, making it a masterpiece of modern wearable art.
Key Features
Asymmetrical arms; signature Elsa Peretti script hallmark; smooth, 'melted' appearance typical of her organic silver work.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid metal construction without stones or plating.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with naturalistic organic texture. The design features soft, rounded contours and five asymmetrical arms characteristic of the Asteroidea family, embodying a minimalist and fluid style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped on the interior of the band with '© Tiffany & Co.', 'Peretti', and '925' or 'Sterling'. Specific fonts and spacing correspond to Tiffany's modern manufacturing standards.
Construction Details
Lost-wax cast followed by intensive hand-polishing. The band is typically integrated into the cast of the central motif for a seamless, continuous look.
Functional Features
Single-piece ring with a low-profile setting designed for daily wear; the asymmetrical points of the star are smoothed to prevent snagging on clothing.
Handle & Grip Details
Simple, slender silver shank (band) attached to the underside of the central starfish motif.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior hand-finishing is evident in the lack of visible casting seams and the high-luster polish that follows every curve of the complex organic shape.
Authentication Indicators
The fluid curvature and specific proportions of the star's arms are distinct to Peretti's design; cheap imitations often appear more symmetrical or rigid. Hallmark placement on these pieces is precise and usually laser-etched or finely stamped.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Italy or Spain (where much of Peretti's silver was produced) for Tiffany & Co., USA.
Era & Period
Modernist/Contemporary (Late 20th Century). This piece reflects the 'Biomorphism' trend in jewelry, focusing on organic forms found in nature.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present. The design has been produced consistently for decades, though tarnish levels suggests it is not brand new.
Cultural Significance
Peretti revolutionized the jewelry industry by elevating sterling silver to a luxury status symbol, making high-end design accessible to a broader audience during the 1970s and 80s.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Good. Visible surface oxidation (tarnish) and light 'pocket wear' or micro-scratches consistent with use. No structural deformities or cracks are visible in the image.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD. Factors include ring size and the presence of original Tiffany & Co. packaging (box and pouch).
Care & Maintenance
Polish with a high-quality silver cloth (Hagerty or Cape Cod). Avoid liquid dips which can strip the soft patina in the crevices. Store in the original Tiffany blue flannel pouch to prevent tarnish.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany 'Open Heart' or 'Bean' designs by Peretti; silver starfish rings by James Avery (usually more traditional/symmetrical) or Georg Jensen (more abstract/architectural).
Interesting Facts
Elsa Peretti's Starfish design was inspired by her trips to the beaches of Sardinia. Her silver designs for Tiffany accounted for a significant percentage of the company's total sales during the late 20th century.