These vintage 18k gold Tiffany & Co. earrings are a rare Elsa Peretti design. The earrings are sinuous snakes with articulated bodies that dangle from the snake’s tail at the top of the earring, adding a nice movement when worn. Elsa Peretti has a sculptural aspect to her work—though the shapes are clearly snakes, they are also beautiful organic forms. The curve of the earrings fall gracefully at the crook of the neck, elongating the neckline and adding drama to any outfit.
Elsa Peretti began her career as a model in 1960’s Barcelona before moving to New York City where she became part of the designer Halston’s inner circle. By the early 1970’s, she was designing jewelry for Halston; by 1979 she was the leading designer for Tiffany & Co., bringing a fresh and sensual perspective to her primarily silver jewelry. Elsa was strikingly beautiful and was part of the Studio 54 club scene, alongside Halston, Andy Warhol, and Liza Minelli. She is a fashion icon and has been called the most successful woman to ever work in the jewelry industry.
The earrings are marked with 750, Spain, Elsa Peretti, and Tiffany & Co. They are 2” long and approximately 1/16” to 3/16” wide (their curve spans 3/4”). They have a nice weight to them at 15 grams combined. They have nut back studs and are for pierced ears.
We love that the curves of these earrings can make two different looks—both very flattering to the neckline—depending on how you wear them. You can’t go wrong with a classic Tiffany & Co. design like this one!
