In the enchanting world of jewelry, few names echo with the same allure as Elsa Peretti’s. The legacy of this spirited Italian beauty with a twinkle in her eye and an insatiable curiosity, is one we cannot overlook. From the cobblestone streets of Florence to her jewelry design debut with Tiffany & Co., her story is one of resilience and creativity; after being cut off financially at a young age, she forged her path through various endeavors before finding her calling in jewelry design, where she redefined luxury itself.
Whether mesmerized by the artistry of human bones in the haunting Capuchin crypts of Rome -a childhood fascination that would later inspire her groundbreaking design; captivated by the organic forms of Antoni Gaudí’s Casa Milà in Barcelona, modeling in bustling New York or creating pieces for American fashion designer Halston, the model-turned-designer transformed her experiences into sculptural masterpieces that dance on the skin.
Among Elsa’s most celebrated creations is the Bone cuff, a piece that whispers tales of elegance and empowerment. First unveiled in 1974, the iconic cuff was not a mere piece of jewelry, but a revolution that challenged conventions with its minimalist form and sensual curves. It embodied -and still does- the designer’s belief that “style is to be simple”, allowing each wrist to embrace its individuality while adorned in pure artistry.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Peretti’s legendary Bone cuff, Tiffany & Co. has unveiled a timeless work of art in its latest campaign, With Love, Since 1837, a heartfelt tribute to love, craftsmanship and the rich heritage that defines the luxury jeweler. Unrivalled till this day, the cuff epitomizes the intersection of art and jewelry, portraying Elsa’s groundbreaking vision.
Inspired by the whimsical window displays of Gene Moore, the campaign breathes new life into the House’s most definitive collections through imaginative storytelling. Each vignette serves as a canvas, uniting the artistry of Peretti with Tiffany's illustrious legacy, inviting admirers to explore the untold stories behind these exquisite creations.
The campaign imagery further enhances the narrative surrounding the Bone cuff. A floating hand gestures upward, reminiscent of Peretti’s signature poses during her modeling career. This artistic representation pays homage to her multifaceted talents and cultural impact within fashion and design. Adding an element of whimsy, a ladybug delicately perched on the index finger nods to a famous Bone cuff advertisement shot by Peretti’s close friend and collaborator, famed photographer Hiro. This blend of nostalgia and modernity encapsulates one of the designer’s famous sayings: "Jewelry is a way of keeping memories alive."
The Bone cuff stands as one of those rare icons, celebrated not only for its aesthetic beauty but also for its profound emotional characteristic. It has found its place in permanent collections at leading museums worldwide, further solidifying its status as a monumental achievement in jewelry history. A design marvel, its sculptural form is meticulously crafted to conform to the natural contours of both left and right wrists, an intentional choice that allows it to become an extension of the wearer. The cuff's sensual curves and elegant simplicity have made it a staple in the wardrobes of legends such as Liza Minnelli and Angelina Jolie, each adding their own chapter to its storied legacy, and transcending trends and time.
To commemorate this golden anniversary, Tiffany & Co. is releasing throughout 2024 and into 2025, a series of special editions featuring exceptional gemstones and bold scales, including unique pavé diamond versions. These limited creations are a testament to Peretti’s enduring influence and formidable creative forces in the jewelry industry. The enduring appeal of Elsa’s work lies in its ability to transform simple forms into symbols of elegance and sophistication -a hallmark of true artistry.
The Elsa Peretti® Bone cuff is not just a piece of jewelry; it is a cultural artifact that embodies innovation, empowerment and timeless elegance. As Tiffany & Co. continues to honor Peretti's vision through new iterations of this classic piece, we look forward to what lies ahead for this iconic House, and are left tingling with anticipation for how these enduring designs will continue to inspire generations to come.
Each piece is available at Tiffany & Co. stores globally or on Tiffany.com, allowing enthusiasts to partake in this momentous celebration.
