Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Teardrop Sterling Silver Bracelet
Jewelry (Bracelet) · Tiffany & Co., one of the world's most prestigious luxury houses founded in 1837. This piece is part of the iconic collaboration with designer Elsa Peretti (joined 1974), known for her fluid, organic shapes and revolutionizing silver jewelry.
Pattern: Teardrop Collection by Elsa Peretti, introduced in the mid-1970s. It is a perennial best-seller and remains in production, considered a cornerstone of Tiffany's modern design aesthetic.
Type
Jewelry (Bracelet)
Maker
Tiffany & Co., one of the world's most prestigious luxury houses founded in 1837. This piece is part of the iconic collaboration with designer Elsa Peretti (joined 1974), known for her fluid, organic shapes and revolutionizing silver jewelry.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Consists of 92.5% pure silver with 7.5% copper for strength. The chain and charms are solid sterling silver.
Dimensions
Standard length is approximately 7 inches (17.8 cm). Teardrops are roughly 10-12mm in length. Total weight is approximately 5-8 grams depending on the number of teardrop elements.
Description
A classic example of Elsa Peretti's 'Teardrop' design for Tiffany & Co. This bracelet features several smooth, sculptural silver droplets spaced along a delicate sterling silver chain. It captures the essence of refined simplicity, intended to evoke the feeling of 'tears of joy' or falling water.
Key Features
Smooth, ergonomic teardrop charms; signature Elsa Peretti hallmark tag; high-quality sterling silver luster; fluid movement of the droplets along the cable chain.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Consists of 92.5% pure silver with 7.5% copper for strength. The chain and charms are solid sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
High-polished mirror finish. Features organic, sculptural 'teardrop' shapes that are smooth and tactile. Minimalist design consistent with the Modernist movement.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The rectangular tag near the clasp is typically stamped with '© Elsa Peretti', 'Tiffany & Co.', and '925'. The lobster claw clasp may also bear a small '925' mark. Authenticity relies on the crispness and font style of these stamps.
Construction Details
Machine-linked cable chain with cast sterling silver teardrops hand-assembled. The teardrops are attached via soldered jump rings to the chain. Features a standard lobster claw clasp and a hallmarks tag.
Functional Features
Lobster claw clasp for secure closure; extender links may be present on some versions for size adjustability. The teardrops are designed to hang freely and move with the wearer's wrist.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable for jewelry; the lobster clasp acts as the primary mechanical interface. The smooth surface of the teardrops is designed for comfort and sensory appeal against the skin.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality casting with no visible pits or seams on the teardrop surfaces. Consistent link shape in the chain and clear, legible stamping on the hallmark tag reflect Tiffany's premium manufacturing standards.
Authentication Indicators
The hallmarks on the flat tag are central to authentication. The soldering on the jump rings should be seamless, and the weight should feel 'substantial' for its size, not light like a base-metal imitation.
Origin & Manufacturing
Originates from Tiffany & Co. workshops, likely in the United States or Italy (depending on the production year). Manufacturing follows the strict quality control standards of the Tiffany brand.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary. This specific design bridges the gap between 1970s organic modernism and contemporary minimalist luxury.
Age Estimate
Likely produced within the last 20-30 years (c. 1995-present) based on the lobster clasp style and the condition of the metal and hallmarks tag.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury design. Peretti's work is held in the permanent collections of the British Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, signifying its status as 'art you can wear'.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Shows light surface scratches (swirls) and minor tarnish consistent with occasional wear. No significant dents in the teardrops or stretching of the chain links. Overall grade: Fine.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD. Resale value depends on the number of teardrop charms (some versions have 3, others 5). Original retail price is currently approximately $600-$700.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and sterling silver polish (e.g., Wright's Silver Cream). Avoid liquid dips which can strip the finish. Store in the original Tiffany Blue flannel pouch (Pacific Silvercloth) to prevent tarnish from exposure to sulfur in the air.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Bean Bracelet, Open Heart Bracelet, or Diamonds by the Yard. Competitor pieces include 'dew drop' designs by Georg Jensen, though Peretti's teardrop is distinguished by its specific asymmetrical, plump curve.
Interesting Facts
Elsa Peretti's silver designs for Tiffany in the 1970s were credited with making silver a 'fashionable' material for high-end jewelry again, as it had previously been overshadowed by gold and platinum.