Discover Elsa Peretti: Past & Present

Revisit the timeless elegance and iconic cool of Elsa Peretti’s designs. From the coveted bone cuff, the symbolic bean shape and lacquered details, explore the everyday classics.

October 2024

Revisit the timeless elegance and iconic cool of Elsa Peretti’s designs. From the coveted bone cuff, the symbolic bean shape and lacquered details, explore the everyday classics.

From the bone cuff—an unmistakable piece seen on the wrists of those in the know—to the rare horsebit belt displayed in the glass cabinets of the British Museum, Peretti’s creations have redefined modern jewellery. As her work continues to captivate new generations with no signs of slowing down, we explore some of the most coveted pieces to source, from past to present.

An Ode to Human Form: The Bone

Fig. 01 Liza Minnelli in the Elsa Peretti bone cuff
Fig. 02 Elsa Peretti large bone cuff via The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

Making its debut in Peretti’s first collection with Tiffany & Co., the bone cuff has been created in three sizes and materials, all of which have been notably spotted on the wrists of fashion greats like Liza Minnelli and Grace Jones. Fascinated by the human body, particularly bones, Peretti drew on earlier visits to a 17th century Capuchin church which contained skeletal remains as a creative starting point when designing the cuff's organic shape.

Source Tip: Opt for the lacquered finishes for a lesser known, more contemporary feel.

A Symbol of Casualness: The Bean

Fig. 03 @themillennialdecorator
Fig. 04 Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co., 1980

Arguably her most celebrated as of late, the bean design is Peretti's symbolic motif for life and nature's beauty. With simple contours, the bean symbol has been integrated across all forms of jewellery, portraying Peretti’s goal of "ultimate casualness" which has attracted clients of varying ages.

Source Tip: Shorten the black cord for a choker style effect.

LIMITLESS LACQUER

Fig. 05 ”Elsa Peretti: Fifteen Of My Fifty With Tiffany”, 1990
Fig. 06 Courtesy of the Elsa Peretti Archives

Perfectly demonstrating that lacquered means limitless, Peretti’s usage of the material can be seen in numerous designs spanned across her creative tenure. Most prominently, the lacquered wood bracelets, rightfully deemed museum worthy by the British Museum. Crafted out of Japanese hardwood, Peretti ensured extra durability by wrapping the wood in linen before applying the lacquer.

Source Tip: Best worn in pairs, stack to your desired height.

ELSA PERETTI FINDS

Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti <br /> Large Bone Cuff | https://www.sourcewhere.com/products/elsa-peretti-large-bone-cuff-sterling-silver-silver-41766621
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti <br /> Bean Pendant Necklace | https://www.sourcewhere.com/products/elsa-peretti-bean-pendant-sterling-silver-silver-20512125
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti <br /> Japanese Bangle | https://www.sourcewhere.com/products/tiffany-co-40139102/24812318
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti <br /> 1980 Pumpkin Box | https://www.sourcewhere.com/products/tiffany-co-71832699/13073205
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti <br /> Cocktail Ring | https://www.sourcewhere.com/products/tiffany-co-12713721/14821724
Discover Elsa Peretti Finds