Sell Elsa Peretti Open Heart Pendant

The Design That Defines the Open Heart

The Elsa Peretti Open Heart pendant captures a distinctive blend of organic form and quiet elegance. Designed in the 1970s, it remains one of the most recognisable pieces from the collaboration between Elsa Peretti and Tiffany & Co.

Elsa Peretti introduced the Open Heart pendant in the mid 1970s as part of her groundbreaking collection for Tiffany & Co. The piece features an open, heart-shaped outline that appears both delicate and architectural. Rather than a solid heart, the design uses negative space to create its silhouette, suspended from a fine chain that allows the pendant to move naturally with the wearer.

The form draws on Peretti's interest in natural shapes and modern simplicity. The edges are softly rounded, avoiding sharp angles, while the overall scale sits comfortably at the centre of the chest. Available in sterling silver and gold, and in versions set with diamonds, each material brings its own character. Silver offers a cool, understated presence; gold versions add warmth and weight; diamond editions catch the light at every movement.

What makes the pendant instantly recognisable is the precise curve of the heart and the way it sits against the skin. The reverse is usually smooth and polished, with the metal flowing seamlessly. These details, though subtle, are what collectors and enthusiasts look for when identifying an authentic Elsa Peretti Open Heart.

Evolution of the Design Over Decades

Since its introduction, the Open Heart pendant has kept its essential form rather than changing radically. Examples from the 1970s onwards share the same heart silhouette, though chains can differ in style and length. Pendants are normally worn on a metal chain in a matching material, and link style can vary between examples.

Gold and diamond interpretations extend the range without altering the fundamental heart silhouette. Where diamonds are present, the setting quality, stone security and alignment all need careful examination. Silver versions are the most widely seen, yet all materials reflect the same design language established by Peretti.

Clasp style, chain length and surface finish can differ from one example to another. These differences are worth noting, but they do not define clear generations of the design. Material, size and condition are the surer guides to how a pendant may be received in the pre-owned market.

Factors That Shape How It Is Assessed

When evaluating an Elsa Peretti Open Heart pendant, several elements come into consideration. The version matters: sterling silver, yellow gold or diamond-set. Each carries different appeal depending on current collector interest. The metal, the size and small differences in chain or finish also play a part.

Condition receives close attention. Surface marks, dents to the heart outline, or wear to the chain can affect the assessment. Diamond versions require examination of stone security, clarity and overall sparkle. Completeness is helpful though not essential; the presence of the original box, pouch or papers adds context but is not required to begin the process.

Demand fluctuates with fashion cycles and collector sentiment. Certain materials and sizes see stronger interest at different times. The assessment considers the pendant's overall state, authenticity, and how these align with what buyers in the pre-owned luxury market are seeking. The specialist checks the hallmarks, chain, finish and any stone setting where relevant.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selling

Many sellers attempt to polish or clean their Elsa Peretti Open Heart pendant before sending photographs. This can unintentionally remove desirable patina from silver examples or create uneven surfaces that complicate assessment. It is better to send the piece exactly as found so its true condition can be evaluated accurately.

Another frequent error is assuming only perfect examples with full packaging will be of interest. While boxes, dust bags and certificates are welcome, many authentic pendants arrive without them. The design and physical state matter far more than accompanying paperwork at the initial stage.

Photographs that are poorly lit or taken at awkward angles can obscure important details such as edge definition, surface condition or hallmarks. Clear, well-lit images from multiple angles, including the reverse and any engravings, allow for a more precise and timely response.

Inherited or Gifted Pieces

An Elsa Peretti Open Heart pendant often arrives as part of an inheritance or a meaningful gift. These pieces carry personal history that can make deciding whether to sell feel complex. Many owners appreciate learning more about the design's background before making a choice, understanding how the particular version fits within Peretti's wider body of work.

Inherited examples sometimes show natural signs of wear from years of use. Light surface scratches or slight softening of edges do not necessarily diminish interest. Each piece tells its own story through these marks, and our assessment focuses on authenticity and overall integrity rather than perfection.

If the pendant has been stored away for some time, simply photographing it in its current state is the best first step. There is no need to have it serviced or adjusted beforehand. The process is designed to be straightforward, allowing you to understand the options available without obligation.

Identifying Your Specific Version

Elsa Peretti Open Heart pendants appear in several materials and configurations. Sterling silver remains the most familiar, typically finished with a smooth polished surface. Gold versions offer a warmer colour and a different presence against the skin. Diamond-set versions are often lined with stones following the heart, and each setting needs individual examination.

Examine the bale and any markings on the reverse. These small details help confirm that the piece belongs to the Elsa Peretti collection for Tiffany & Co., rather than to an unsigned copy. Chain style can vary, from plainer links to finer chains, but it is not a reliable guide to the pendant's date.

Take time to photograph the pendant from front, back, side and close-up views of any markings. These images allow us to identify the material and assess the piece more accurately. Avoid guessing the exact reference; simply provide clear photographs and we will assess the piece on its individual merits.

Condition and Care Considerations

The condition of an Elsa Peretti Open Heart pendant is assessed holistically. For silver examples, some natural tarnishing is expected and can be part of the piece's character. Gold versions may show fine scratches from daily wear, while diamond pieces require attention to the security of the stones and the condition of the settings.

Chains often show more wear than the pendant itself. Kinks, missing links or clasp issues are noted during assessment but do not prevent an offer. The heart outline itself should be examined for dents or distortion, as these can be more difficult to restore without affecting the original design intent.

Rather than attempting repairs or cleaning, present the pendant and chain as they are. This honesty allows for an accurate evaluation based on current market preferences. Many pieces with honest signs of wear still find appreciative new homes among collectors who value authenticity over pristine condition.

Selling Your Elsa Peretti Open Heart Pendant to EncoreLuxe

The valuation form appears near the top of this page beneath the main image. Upload several clear photographs of your Elsa Peretti Open Heart pendant from all angles, including close views of any markings, the chain and the reverse. Our specialists review submissions around the clock and offers typically arrive within minutes.

Once an offer is accepted and the pendant arrives at our premises, it undergoes verification by our team. This inspection confirms the details shared in the photographs. Upon successful verification, payment is made by bank transfer the same day. Should the piece differ significantly from the description provided, we return it fully insured at our expense with no fee or obligation.

Both postage using our prepaid label and collection within the UK are offered at no cost to you. The entire process is designed to be transparent, efficient and respectful of the piece's significance. Whether your pendant is silver, gold or diamond set, we approach each one with the care its design deserves.

Common questions before selling

Do I need the original box and papers to sell my Elsa Peretti Open Heart pendant? No. While boxes, pouches and documentation are welcome, they are not required to begin the process. Clear photographs of the pendant itself are what matter most.

Which versions of the Open Heart pendant do you buy? We assess silver, yellow gold and diamond-set versions. Each is evaluated on its individual condition, authenticity and current market interest.

How should I photograph my pendant for the best offer? Take clear, well-lit images from front, back, sides and close-ups of any hallmarks or engravings. Show the chain fully and any areas of wear.

What happens if I decline the final offer after inspection? We return the pendant to you free of charge using fully insured delivery. There is no obligation and no fee for the service.

How quickly will I receive an offer? Offers are usually provided within minutes of receiving clear photographs, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Should I clean or polish my Open Heart pendant before selling? Please send the piece in its current condition. Attempting to clean or polish can alter surfaces in ways that affect accurate assessment.