Elsa Peretti Open Heart Pendant by Tiffany & Co. in Sterling Silver
Jewelry (Pendant/Charm) · Tiffany & Co., founded in 1837 in New York. This piece is part of the iconic collaboration with designer Elsa Peretti (joined Tiffany in 1974), known for her minimalist, organic aesthetic inspired by nature.
Pattern: Elsa Peretti Open Heart, introduced in 1974. It is one of the most successful jewelry designs in history and remains in active production today.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Charm)
Maker
Tiffany & Co., founded in 1837 in New York. This piece is part of the iconic collaboration with designer Elsa Peretti (joined Tiffany in 1974), known for her minimalist, organic aesthetic inspired by nature.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 fineness). The piece is solid sterling silver throughout, including the jump rings.
Dimensions
Estimated small size: approximately 11mm to 16mm in width. Typical weight for this size is approximately 1.5 to 2.5 grams. These pendants are produced in several scale variants from mini (7mm) to extra-large (36mm).
Description
An iconic symbol of modern jewelry design, the Elsa Peretti Open Heart pendant for Tiffany & Co. is celebrated for its revolutionary simplicity. Its asymmetrical, organic curves evoke a sense of movement and 'void' that changed the landscape of sterling silver jewelry in the 1970s. This specific miniature charm variant is designed for either a delicate neck chain or a charm bracelet.
Key Features
Asymmetrical heart shape, rounded sculptural profile, high-mirror polish, and signature script branding. The unique way the heart 'leans' is a diagnostic trait of authentic Peretti designs.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 fineness). The piece is solid sterling silver throughout, including the jump rings.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish. The design is characterized by its fluid, organic 'contour' shapes with rounded, sculptural edges. No engraving or chasing; the beauty lies in its simple, unadorned form.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped on the reverse side or edge of the heart with '(C) SPAIN' or '(C) BELGIUM' (or other manufacturing regions), 'TIFFANY & CO.', 'ELSA PERETTI' in script, and '925' or 'STERLING'. The hallmarks are often very small and require a loupe.
Construction Details
Precision-cast using the lost-wax process followed by intensive hand-polishing to achieve the seamless 'liquid' curves and high-gloss finish typical of Peretti designs.
Functional Features
Features an integrated top loop and a separate split jump ring for attachment to a chain or bracelet. The 'open' center allows the chain to pass directly through the heart on certain larger models, though this specific charm uses an external ring.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; jump rings are solid sterling silver and soldered secure for durability.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial casting with superior hand-finishing. The lack of visible seam lines and the perfectly uniform reflective surface indicate high-tier quality control typical of Tiffany workshops.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the heart's asymmetry, the quality of the '925' and 'Peretti' stamps (which should be crisp, not blurry), and the seamless joinery of the auxiliary rings. Counterfeits often have 'flat' backs or inconsistent thickness.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed in the USA; manufactured by Tiffany & Co. in high-end workshops located in Spain, Italy, or the USA, depending on the year of production.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century / Contemporary. Designed in the 1970s, it represents the 'Modernist' movement in jewelry, focusing on ergonomic design and tactile quality.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present. The design has remained consistent for decades, making precise dating difficult without specific hallmark variations or original packaging.
Cultural Significance
Represented a shift toward 'accessible luxury' and female-purchased jewelry. It became a cultural milestone for young women, often gifted for graduations and birthdays in the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Excellent. Subtle surface micro-scratches are visible under magnification (consistent with gentle wear). No deep gouges or deformations to the heart's curve. Tarnish is minimal.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD (Secondary Market). Current retail for new mini models ranges from $200-$300 depending on current metal spot prices and Tiffany brand premiums.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild detergent and a soft toothbrush to remove oils. Polish with a high-quality silver cloth (like Hagerty or Cape Cod). When not in use, store in a Tiffany-blue tarnish-resistant flannel pouch.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany 'Loving Heart' by Paloma Picasso (more angular/graphic), James Avery Heart charms (more traditional/folk-art style), or generic heart pendants which lack the specific Peretti asymmetric tilt.
Interesting Facts
Elsa Peretti's designs once accounted for nearly 10% of Tiffany & Co.'s total global sales. The Open Heart design was inspired by the 'empty space' in Henry Moore's sculptures.