Tiffany & Co.'s iconic Heart Tag Necklace has a rich backstory that's rooted in function over fashion.
In 1966, the first heart-shaped tag, advertised in print as the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, was set in 14k yellow gold and cost $11. Three years later in 1969, Tiffany released the heart-shaped tag on a keychain for a total of $48, later switching over to a screwball key ring.
Tiffany’s best-selling Return to TIffany Heart Tag Toggle Bracelet and Heart Tag Toggle Necklace have risen in price in recent years due to the increase in cost of silver material, and now retail at $575 and $800, respectively.. At a glance, they might look authentic, but upon a closer examination, you can tell where the details or construction don’t measure up. The Tiffany sterling pieces typically feel heavier than the knockoffs, which are often only plated in silver.
They fit in with the unofficial uniform of the time — a Juicy Couture velour or terry tracksuit and rolled-over Ugg boots — but still represented an aspirational type of luxury that wasn’t attainable for everyone. If you had one, you wore it proudly.