Rare 1930s KTF Trifari Art Deco Rhinestone Dress Clip

This is an uncommon early KTF (Trifari, Krussman & Fishel) Art Deco dress clip, dating to the 1930s, prior to the introduction of the Crown Trifari mark in 1937.

The clip has an elaborate symmetrical openwork design with stylized foliate and scrolling elements. A large marquise-cut clear rhinestone forms the centrepiece, surrounded by additional marquise-cut stones and numerous small round rhinestones. The smaller stones are predominantly smoky grey, with some clearer and warmer-toned stones, creating a subtle contrast against the silver-coloured setting.

The reverse is fitted with its original substantial dress-clip mechanism and is clearly stamped KTF, for Trifari, Krussman & Fishel. There is also the number 12 and a hand-scratched number on the reverse, most likely a production or stone-setter's notation.

Alfred Philippe joined Trifari in 1930 and was responsible for many of the company's sophisticated designs during this period. The style and construction of this clip are consistent with early KTF pieces produced during Philippe's tenure; however, I have not found documentation attributing this particular design directly to him, so I am not representing it as a confirmed Philippe design.

Measurements: 1 5/8" × 1 5/8".

Condition: Very good condition, especially considering its age. Two small rhinestones are missing from adjacent settings, as shown in the last close-up photograph, and one rhinestone appears to have been re-glued at some time. The numerous small rhinestones include predominantly smoky grey stones together with some clearer and warmer-toned stones; I cannot determine whether every stone is original, but I think so. The large clear marquise-cut stones remain bright. Because of the profusion of stones and elaborate openwork design, the two missing stones are inconspicuous under normal viewing. Please refer to the photographs for condition.

A striking example of pre-war KTF Trifari jewellery, combining classic Art Deco symmetry with intricate openwork and extensive rhinestone setting. An especially appealing piece for a collector of early Trifari or Art Deco costume jewellery.