A History of Trifari Jewelry Company

Trifari was a prominent American costume jewelry company for nearly a century, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and sophisticated designs that made luxury style accessible to a broader audience. The company was founded by Gustavo Trifari, an Italian immigrant and trained goldsmith, around 1910. Initially, the venture operated as "Trifari and Trifari," a partnership with his uncle, which dissolved shortly thereafter. In 1925, Gustavo partnered with Leo Krussman and Carl Fishel, forming the company "Trifari, Krussman, and Fishel." During this early period, jewelry was often marked "KTF".

The hiring of French designer Alfred Philippe in 1930, proved a pivotal moment for the company and ushered in what would be considered Trifari's Golden Age. Philippe had previously worked for prestigious houses like Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels. His influence elevated the brand's aesthetic, introducing intricate stone settings and a level of artistry that rivaled fine jewelry. Under Philippe, the company created iconic collections and signature lines that remain highly collectible today, including:

• "Fruit Salad" (Tutti Frutti): Colorful pieces featuring vibrant stone combinations popular in the 1930s and 40s.

• Jelly Bellies: Jewelry featuring polished lucite cabochons, which resembled jelly, often shaped as animals.

• Crown Trifari: Known for its iconic crown motifs, which became a hallmark of the brand.

To maintain quality during economic constraints, such as the material shortages of World War II, the company innovated by using sterling silver and later developed "Trifanium," a durable, non-tarnishing metal alloy they patented in 1947.

Trifari became a staple of Hollywood glamour, adorning movie stars and high-profile figures. One of the brand's most notable endorsements came from First Lady Mamie Eisenhower, who famously wore Trifari jewelry to her husband's presidential inauguration.

Following Philippe’s departure in 1968, the brand continued to evolve through the late 20th century. The company underwent several ownership changes. Trifari was acquired by Hallmark in 1985, then sold to the Monet Group in 1994, which was in turn acquired by Liz Claiborne in 2000. Under Liz Claiborne ownership, newer pieces were briefly sold on cards with the Trifari name but were no longer signed and were of lesser quality than in previous decades. Soon after the brand ceased to exist, but older Trifari jewelry remains timeless and pieces are still highly sought after today.   

Collectors can often date pieces by the specific marks found on the back of the items:

• KTF: Used from 1925 through the mid-1930s.

• Trifari Pat. Pend: Used from the mid-1930s to 1955.

• Crown Trifari (with © symbol): Used from 1955 to 1969.

• Crownless Trifari (with © symbol): Used from the 1970s to the late 1980s.

• Trifari™: Used from the late 1980s through 1999.

Visit FeltInMyHeart.com for collectible Trifari jewelry and other beautiful vintage pieces.