Trifari Faux Ruby & Black Rhinestone Jewelry Set - Unworn, with Tags

Question
I have a Faux Ruby and Black Rhinestone necklace, bracelet and clip earring set from my aunt who just passed away.  They are set in a goldtone backing.  It is in excellent condition and very vivid and bright.  It's never been worn and still has the original Trifari tags on the items.  I have a picture that I could send.  I have checked on google.com, yahoo.com, eBay and various sites and catelogs and patent lists but cannot seem to locate this set.  I don't really think it is older than the 1950's because of the design. But I could be wrong.  Do you know where I might be able to find it and price it's worth?   Thank you.  Gabriele

Answer
Hello Gabriele and thank you for your inquiry. Your set sounds lovely. Trifari jewelry is quite collectible especially with the original tags, early markings and mint condition. They produced so many designs, some with patents others signed with various marks. I would suggest a book "Collecting Costume Jewelry 202" By Carroll. This book lists a lot of the Trifari designs and patented items along with descriptions and photos. I have found it very useful in identifying pieces. You should be able to find it at your local book store, library or at amazon.com - As far as values go, there is "book value" if you can find your piece in a book and then there is market value which would be the going price at auction or retail for that particular item. You could determine by researching the particular piece (if you can find the design name or patent)or finding something similar at auction or retail site. Values will vary depending on current desirability and condition and these values will change frequently.

Hope this helps

Sally
jarrettsjade.com