Vintage Trifari Jelly Belly Sailfish Fur Clip Brooch | Norman Bel Geddes Design | Rhinestone "Strass" Variant
An iconic and collectible example of vintage Trifari jewelry, this Jelly Belly Sailfish fur clip was designed by industrial designer Norman Bel Geddes and patented in 1941. The fish features a beautifully sculpted clear lucite "jelly belly" body, brilliant pavé-set rhinestones covering the dramatic sail fin and tail, and a vivid green cabochon eye. Collectors often refer to this rhinestone-fin version as the "Strass Sailfish," and it is generally regarded as the most desirable of the four sailfish variations produced by Trifari.
The reverse retains both the Trifari signature and design patent marking DES. PAT. NO. 129165. The patent was filed on July 22, 1941, and issued on August 26, 1941. The fur clip mechanism remains strong and functional and includes the original stabilizing spike for secure attachment.
Although often described in collector literature as sterling silver vermeil, this example is not marked sterling. It is uncertain whether all sailfish variants were originally marked for silver content, and the piece is therefore being offered as Trifari example with unmarked content.
Condition
Very good condition.
All rhinestones are present and retain excellent sparkle. The lucite body remains clear and free of wear; any apparent lines visible in photographs are reflections from the photographic surface rather than scratches. The gold-tone finish displays light age-related wear and crazing, most noticeable under strong lighting and magnification in the close-up photographs but not really apparent during normal viewing and display. The clip functions properly and closes securely.
Please review all photographs carefully.
Measurements
- Height: 8 cm (3 1/8 inches)
- Width: 6 cm (2 3/8 inches)
Details
- Maker: Trifari
- Designer: Norman Bel Geddes
- Model: Sailfish Fur Clip / Brooch
- Patent: Design Patent No. 129165
- Patent Filed: July 22, 1941
- Patent Issued: August 26, 1941
- Materials: Lucite, rhinestones, gold-tone metal, green cabochon eye
- Closure: Fur clip with stabilizing spike
- Era: 1940s
- Origin: United States
An excellent example of Trifari's Jelly Belly jewelry, wonderful Norman Bel Geddes design, nice acquisition for the collector of mid-century American costume jewelry!
Good news for our US customers! All customs duties, tariffs, and import taxes are pre-paid by us at the time of shipment. The price you see is the final price you pay—no surprise fees at delivery!