Trifari Mid Century Plastic Jewelry
Recently I've become smitten with mid century costume or fashion jewelry. Collectible pieces are easy to find on the internet and at estate sales and lots of fun to collect and wear. There are so many different styles it would be easy to get overwhelmed so I'm starting my collection with colorful plastic Trifari pieces. Sometimes these pieces are called thermoset or poured glass, which refers to variations of the material with which they are made. Some other manufacturers of the period are Coro, Lisner, Kramer, and Claudette to name a few.
When choosing vintage costume jewelry it's important to look for the maker's mark on the back. Trifari pieces will be marked Trifari and sometimes have a small circled c after the name or a crown above the T. Also the back of the piece will be smooth. This is important because newer reproductions have a textured finish. These are abundant also and many unknowing sellers will sell then as vintage pieces. Of course there are also sellers who know they are reproductions and intentionally advertise them as vintage with vintage price tag as well.
I've also been reading up on the care of these old treasures. They are much easier to damage than fine jewelry so it's important to be careful when wearing and cleaning. Some experts recommend brushing with a soft clean makeup brush to loosen dust and dirt and then wiping with a soft cloth dipped in glass cleaner. Different styles of costume jewelry require different methods of cleaning so it's important to research before you clean. Above all don't dip in water or a harsh cleaning solution, especially if the piece includes rhinestones.
I've included a few pieces that I have in my collection now for your viewing pleasure. Be sure to check back often as I'll be posting more soon. Enjoy!
Category: Private Jewelry Collection
About the Author (Author Profile)
Wanda Fitzgerald is a Florida native and an vintage charm collector who loves to share her adventures in an e-commerce jewelry business with anyone who is interested.Subscribe
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