Elsa Peretti 1981 Tiffany & Co Black Silk Tassel & Silver Necklace

Created in 1981 by legendary designer Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co. this exceptional horsewhip necklace represents one of the most sculptural and collectible periods of Peretti’s career. When Peretti joined Tiffany in 1974, she fundamentally transformed the jewelry industry. At a time when fine jewelry was dominated by formal diamonds and traditional gold settings, Peretti introduced an entirely new visual language — organic forms, sensual minimalism, sculptural silver, and jewelry designed to move naturally with the body. Most importantly, she elevated sterling silver into the world of true luxury, helping redefine modern jewelry and forever changing Tiffany’s identity in the process. By the late 1970s, Peretti had become Tiffany’s leading designer, with her collections generating enormous commercial and cultural success for the house. Today, early archival Peretti works from the 1970s and 1980s have become increasingly sought after. Rare studio-era designs — particularly sculptural and experimental pieces produced in smaller quantities — are valued not simply as jewelry, but as wearable works of modern design. Auction results for important Peretti silver objects and rare archival forms continue to achieve strong prices, reinforcing her lasting influence on both jewelry and collectible design. This particular necklace is an extraordinary example of that era. Crafted from richly braided black silk cords in the form of a horsewhip choker, it is finished with an oversized silk tassel and an organic freeform sterling silver toggle bead closure. The reverse of the silver nugget is signed. The matching cuff from the same collection is listed and sold separately. More than jewelry, this piece embodies Peretti’s revolutionary approach to adornment — transforming jewelry into something tactile, sculptural, intimate, and deeply artistic. Extremely rare to encounter in this form and condition, it stands as both a collector’s piece and an important example of Tiffany & Co.’s modern design history. * This listing is for the necklace only, cuff sold separately. Excellent condition. Measurements: Circumference up to 15 inches Length: 10 inches from button to end of tassel Reference Photos: Elle France 1981, Tiffany& Co. advertisement 1981