Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Sterling Silver Crucifix Necklace

Description

Experience the fusion of high fashion and profound symbolism with this authentic Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Crucifix necklace, a timeless piece from one of the 20th century's most celebrated jewelry designers. This vintage sterling silver pendant features Peretti's distinctively modern and minimalist interpretation of the crucifix, moving away from ornate tradition to focus on clean, sculptural lines.

The genre of crucifix and cross jewelry is deeply rooted in history, predating Christianity with various cross-like symbols representing life, balance, and the divine in ancient cultures like Egypt (the Ankh) and Mesopotamia. With the rise of Christianity, the cross became a central emblem of faith, representing the sacrifice and salvation of Jesus Christ. By the 6th century A.D., the crucifix—specifically featuring the image of Christ on the cross—emerged, becoming a powerful symbol in Catholic and later, other Christian traditions, worn both for devotion and as a public declaration of faith. Over centuries, designers have continuously reinterpreted the symbol, culminating in the bold, sculptural artistry seen in Peretti's designs.

This particular necklace, a tangible piece of this rich history, includes a delicate 16-inch chain and has a substantial, yet lightweight feel, weighing 2.17 grams. The authenticity is clearly marked on the closures, with one tag bearing the PERETTI along with TIFFANY & CO., while the other tag is stamped with 925 and SPAIN. On the back of the cross, it is stamped TIFFANY & CO. copyright symbol Elsa Peretti (in script) TIFFANY & CO. 925 SPAIN. The addition of the SPAIN mark is a nod to Peretti's commitment to craftsmanship, as she worked closely with silversmiths in Spain to realize her groundbreaking sterling silver designs which helped shift the material's standing from "common" to coveted in fine jewelry. Presented in its original signature Tiffany blue dust bag, this rare and collectible piece is ready to be cherished by a new owner.