Jelly Belly Appraisal

Sterling & Lucite Trifari Alfred Philippe Jelly Belly Swan Brooch & Earrings

This exquisite vintage jewelry set comprises a brooch and a pair of matching clip-on earrings, featuring a distinctive 'Jelly Belly' design. The central piece is a swan-shaped brooch, meticulously crafted with a sterling silver body that appears to have a gold-plated or gold-toned finish on the head, neck, and wings. The swan's body is characterized by a large, clear, domed Lucite 'jelly belly,' a signature element of Trifari's Alfred Philippe designs from the 1940s. The head and upper back of the swan are adorned with pave-set clear rhinestones, adding significant sparkle. A single, small red rhinestone or cabochon marks the swan's eye, providing a pop of color and definition. The wings are also accented with clear rhinestones along their edges. The metal components show signs of age, including some tarnishing and possible wear to the gold-tone plating, revealing a silver-colored base material, consistent with sterling silver. The lucite 'jelly belly' appears clear with minor internal reflections, possibly indicating some surface scratches or internal inclusions typical with vintage Lucite. The brooch features a standard pin clasp on the reverse, not visible in this image but implied by its function. The accompanying earrings are clip-on style, matching the aesthetic of the brooch. Each earring features a clear, domed Lucite cabochon set within a silver-toned metal casing. The circular base of the setting is encircled by a single row of pave-set clear rhinestones. The metal on the earrings also exhibits some tarnishing, indicating their age and likely sterling silver composition. This set, attributed to Trifari and Alfred Philippe, represents a classic example of figural jewelry from the mid-20th century. The craftsmanship, particularly the detailed rhinestone setting and the use of 'jelly belly' lucite, points to high-quality costume jewelry design of its era.