I couldn't disagree with you more. Costume Jewelry is one of the best kept jewelry secrets around, and Trifari costume included - especially as the renowned Alfred Philippe in the 1940s was a designer for the Trifari costume jewelry manufacturer. Many people, who have a jewelry box full of costume jewelry have no idea of the value of many of the pieces, and think that "costume" jewelry is "cheap jewelry". In a way, costume Jewelry has been sabotaged by fine gemstone jewelry in the past. Times are changing, and time is also proving, that Costume Jewelry is a great investment IF you have knowledge of the subject, avail yourself of costume jewelry investment guidance or get the item appraised online.
For example, the beautiful Trifari necklace you see below is 1940s Trifari and retails for over $400 US. (2015) It has more than doubled in value over the last 2 years!
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trifari value by: Anonymous
ebay is a good starting place, search Trifari pieces and see how much they sell for, common pieces can sell for as little as a few dollars, very rare pieces in good condition can sell for hundreds.
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Appraisal Trifari by: Premier Antiques Jewelry & Gold
There is really no need to pay for an appraisal of Trifari jewelry. Every vintage jewelry box from that era had several pieces or sets and most of it is common. Very few pieces are are rare. You can check "CLOSED" auctions on ebay to look for similar pieces make sure you look at "closed" because open auctions are what people WANT not what they get or you can post a photo here of the front and back and we can help you. I would save appraisals for gold, silver and gem items that you are worried about replacement value on. Keep in mind that an appraisal value is different than an actual retail fair market value in many case. Good Luck, Richard Rogers, Owner Premier Antiques Jewelry & Gold www.facebook/PremierAntiquesRome
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Trifari by: MargaD
I suggest to look at eBay.com the value of Trifari jewelry paid by buyers. You get a good impression. After that you can always buy some books of costume jewelry.