Trifari "Jewels of India" Butterfly Brooch

NWS 10-1367

~ Trifari was famous for its "Jewels of India series, the first edition of which was designed in the 1930's by Alfred Philippe. Philippe was Trifari's most famous designer for over 30 years. Shortly before retiring from Trifari, Philippe designed another version of The Jewels of India.  This fantastic butterfly brooch is from that 1965 edition.

~ The front wings of the butterfly have two, faux emerald cabochons. These stones have, deep within them, swirls of pale green, gauze-like glass, making them look like real gemstones with natural inclusions.  These amazing faux emeralds have open-backed settings, and are without foil, so the light transfers through them perfectly, highlighting the inner life of the crystals. Breathtaking!

~ Next to these large emerald cabochons are 2 small, tear-drop sapphires that have also been faceted by hand.

~ The butterfly's body is comprised of a large, faux sapphire cabochon, with the same swirling, pale blue glass deep within the stone. It also has an open back setting, without foil. Set just beneath this sapphire is another faux emerald. This one is perfectly clear, with a very intense, deep green color. It has been cut by hand into a pear shape.

~ On the back wings are 2 pear-shaped, faux ruby cabochons, with the same internal swirls of pale pink glass. These are also set with open backs for maximum light refraction. They have an intense, almost raspberry color.

~ The brooch has both gold plated and rhodium plated segments, which add to its dimensional architecture. These areas are covered with pavé-set, faux diamonds - crystals of the finest quality and brilliance. Each stone is faceted and reflects light in a million directions. This is nothing less than a spectacular work of art!

Research: Costume Jewelry - The Great Pretenders, by Kelley & Schiffer, p. 21. Trifari Jewels of India advertised in "Town & Country", October, 1965, shown at right. c. 1965, in excellent condition, looks like 1 or 2 of the tiny, clear stones may have been replaced. Anyone who knows Trifari knows that the coveted "Jewels of India" series is one of their most famous collections, highly sought after and regarded as a collector's "dream find"!

Price = $545.00 q-z, b1

Who was Trifari?

Fabulous Facets has a matching Jewels of India bracelet here.