This is a magnificent early Trifari brooch that features the ClipMate bar mechanism, which joins the two halves of the brooch. Hundreds of tiny chatons are set-pave style-in a rhodium plated milgrain setting. Beautifully faceted baguettes at the center, top and bottom and at the left and right ends, supply the Deco sleekness and style. Open backed curves add additional visual interest. One half of the brooch is signed Pat. Pend. and the other half is signed Pat.2050804; the ClipMate bar is also signed Pat. Pend. Patent 2050804 was granted to Alfred Philippe, head designer for Trifari, on August 11, 1936 for the sliding ClipMate mechanism. Given that the pin is signed both Pat. Pend. and with the utility patent number, I would date this pin to the latter part of 1936 or 1937 – according to my research, by December 1937, the Trifari mark began being used on all jewelry. The brooch does not have clips and there is no indication that any were ever affixed to the brooch. The condition is wonderful – all stones are present and sparkling and the rhodium plating is shiny. It seems as if the brooch was rarely worn and then safely stored for some 80+ years. Large and important, it measures 3 5/8 inches wide, when joined, and 1 5/8 inches long. Each half measures one and three-quarter inches wide. You'll treasure this early and significant Trifari – a must-have for the serious collector and one of the finest pieces I've had the pleasure to offer. $495.00