Crown Trifari Alfred Philippe Jelly Belly Bug Brooch — Pat. Pend. c.1944 First Production

✦ PROVENANCE & COLLECTOR NOTE

Designed by Alfred Philippe for Crown Trifari, this is the coveted Jelly Belly fly brooch from Philippe's celebrated Fly Fantasia series — and this example bears the mark collectors hunt for: Crown Trifari Pat. Pend., the early-production signature issued before the patent number was stamped. Dating to approximately 1944, this is a first-production strike, predating the registered Des. Pat. 157,417 (Pattern 137557) that followed. The Pat. Pend. mark is rarer and more desirable than later examples — a true collector's piece from one of the most important designers in American costume jewelry history.

✦ CONDITION

Very good vintage condition. The silver-tone setting retains its finish with no significant loss. The gray cabochon jelly belly is intact and lustrous. Pavé crystal wings are bright and secure with no missing or cloudy stones. Ruby red eyes vivid. Light, age-appropriate wear consistent with a well-preserved first-production piece.

✦ DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS

- Designer: Alfred Philippe for Crown Trifari
- Series: Fly Fantasia
- Pattern: 137557 / Des. Pat. 157,417
- Signature: Crown Trifari Pat. Pend. (early production mark, stamped on reverse)
- Body: Gray baroque pearl jelly belly cabochon
- Wings: Pavé set brilliant clear rhinestones
- Eyes: Ruby red crystal
- Metal: Silver-tone base metal
- Dimensions: Approximately 1.18" W × 1.10" H
- Closure: Roll-over C-clasp
- Circa: 1944

✦ GRACE NOTE

Alfred Philippe gave Trifari its soul — and the Jelly Belly fly is one of his most beloved creations. This example, marked Pat. Pend. before the world caught up to the patent, is what a collector finds once and doesn't put back. Pin her on a lapel, a velvet ribbon, or the brim of a hat, and wear a piece of American jewelry history.

All items are securely packaged and will ship within 3 to 4 business days. We maintain a smoke-free environment to ensure the highest standards for our customers.

Wear: Apply cosmetics, perfumes, and hairsprays before putting on your jewelry. Avoid wearing pieces during strenuous activity or in water.

Storage: Store flat in a cool, dry environment, ideally in a lined jewelry box or a separate pouch to prevent scratching.

Cleaning: Gently wipe down after wear with a clean, soft, dry cloth. Never use liquid jewelry cleaners or harsh abrasives on vintage metals or stones.