Fine rare and important C1970 Elsa Peretti for Halston Tiffany & CO Sterling Silver Snake Belt or Lariat Necklace.

Elsa Peretti snake belt/necklace. This rare, original 1st production piece dates back to the 1970s, a pivotal time when Elsa was designing jewelry to accessorize the runway collections of her dear friend, the legendary American designer Halston, before her exclusive contract with Tiffany & Co. in 1974.

This sophisticated and highly complex design consists of over 120 individual, graduated bean-shaped links that create an incredibly fluid, serpentine form, allowing it to move effortlessly with the wearer. 

The striking design was inspired by a real rattlesnake tail—a token of “good luck” gifted to Peretti by a friend from Texas, which she carried as a talisman for years. Source: Elsa Peretti® Snake  - See Tiffany.com

The snake's jaw ingeniously opens to allow the tail to thread through, making it a versatile lariat-style necklace or an adjustable belt. Set with black cabochon onyx eyes.

PROVENANCE: 
Acquired at Tiffany & CO boutique in 1975 located at the company's famous global flagship store (often called "The Landmark") 727 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10022.

Lot Note(s): Jewelry from Peretti Halston/Tiffany/ and Catalan sculptor Xavier Cordero era are easily by far the most sought after by discerning T&C collectors worldwide.

Length: 35.5” inches.
Gross weight: 341grams 

Marked: Tiffany & CO, Sterling, and the partially visible "X.C" maker's mark: Xavier Cordero.

Condition Report:
Presented in very good to excellent condition, minor oxidation throughout, light scratches, lays perfectly flat (too neckline) – as designed. 

Specifications
Brand: Tiffany & Co. (retailed by, for Halston)
Designer: Elsa Peretti
Collection: Snake
Metal: Sterling Silver
Length: 35.5 inches (overall, lariat style; adjustable when worn)
Bean Width: 17mm at widest point

Snake Head: 68 x 34mm
Weight: 341 grams
Makers Mark: Tiffany & Co. Sterling, X.C (Partially faded)

Package Includes
Tiffany & Co. Box
Tiffany & Co. Soft Pouch 

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Elsa Peretti’s relationship with Halston and Tiffany & Co. is one of the most legendary collaborations in fashion and jewelry history. Halston, an American designer, was Peretti’s close friend and earliest champion, even introducing her to Tiffany & Co. executives in 1974 to launch her famous jewelry line.