Description
Lovely pair of early Art Deco modernism, early transitional marked KTF Trifari Alfred Phillipe pierced earrings with butterfly backs. They have a clipped punch stamp full word sterling marking alongside the KTF mark. This mark was only used by Trifari to indicate Alfred Philippe who was the well known legendary head designer for Trifari from 1935-1968, thereby influencing the mid century modernist movement. Prior to working for Trifari Alfred Philippe was a designer for Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpel and other well known makers of fine jewelry. These earrings resemble wind blown sails like you would see on a sailboat. Each earring measures 1″ north to south by 3/4″ east to west on the diagonal at the bottom. The two sails are open on one side and converge into one piece on the opposite side. Both have matching vintage replacement sterling silver butterfly backs. Overall condition of both earrings is excellent. No damage or repair. Original patina is intact and they have not been polished out. From an estate many decades ago this is a beautiful pair of hard to find Alfred Philippe earrings for your collection of rare and hard to find antique and vintage designer jewelry.
A lot has been published over the years about this designer.
This is additional information from Ai:
This hallmark is an authentic, highly collectible early Trifari marking known as the “KTF” stamp, used exclusively from 1925 to the mid-1930s.While it looks like a T, K, and F grouped together, it actually stands for the original founders of the company: Trifari, Krussman, and Fishel
The “KTF” Era (1925–1937): This mark features a prominent center letter T with the K sharing or attaching to its left/center stem, followed by a separate F on the right. Finding this stamp alongside “STERLIN” (an incomplete or clipped “STERLING” stamp from a hand-punch) confirms these earrings are rare, early Art Deco or transitional mid-century sterling silver pieces.The Design: The “double sail” look is a beautiful example of early American Modernism. During this era, Trifari’s head designer, Alfred Philippe, heavily favored geometric, flowing, and streamlined shapes inspired by transportation and architecture
Because true KTF-marked sterling earrings are quite rare, you can compare this piece against historic listings on specialized collector platforms. Browse verified early inventory like Vintage KTF Trifari on Etsy or archival collections of Trifari Jewelry on 1stdibs to see similar stamped metalwork from the late 1920s and 1930s
Modernist Aesthetic: The 1-inch size is considered highly wearable by today’s standards. The “sail” or wave design leans heavily into Art Deco modernism, which attracts collectors who prefer clean, sculptural silver work over heavy rhinestones.Condition & Integrity: Since they are a complete, matching pair with clear, readable hallmarks, they hold their value well.
Market ExpectationsFast Liquidation (eBay/Auctions): If priced to sell quickly on platforms like eBay, you can expect bids or offers in the $110 to $150 range.Specialty Retail (Etsy/1stdibs): In a curated vintage boutique or on platforms like ETSY or 1stdibs, where buyers specifically seek out rare Alfred Philippe-era Trifari, they can realistically be priced between $175 and $225+.
