T
he Fine Jewels auction on 8 September in London proudly presents over 350 lots. The sale features an array of exceptional signed pieces by world-class jewellery houses such as Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and Bulgari, an assortment of coloured stones complemented by white diamonds of every shape and size to suit all tastes, as well as several important private collections. Highlights of the auction include a magnificent 16.18 carat Fancy Yellow diamond, a stunning Art Deco double-clip brooch by Cartier which was previously in the collection of Sir Elton John and an Archaeological-revival carnelian scarab necklace from the 1870s. The jewels in this impressive sale represent nearly every decade from the early 19th century through to the modern day. In addition to this, a number of lots are to be sold with no reserve, so make sure to stop by our exhibition to find your autumn jewel.
Discover a number of 19th century jewels hailing inspiration from the ancient world. During the 19th century we see a wave of interest in designs of Greek and Etruscan style and this enthusiasm continued well into the 1880s. The silhouettes of these jewels are easily recognizable as being influenced by the classical world, but it is worth noting that ancient goldsmithing techniques were also emulated: granulations of gold spheres, rope twists and filigree. Further to this, we see a renewed interest in the glyptic arts with ancient or neoclassical cameos, seals and intaglios often set in jewelry. Lava stone jewels of this period were often carved in cameo to depict classical scenes or profiles and would have been bought as souvenirs by 19th century tourists on their visits to Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Furthermore, this period saw the nearing completion of the Suez Canal, and archeologist Auguste Mariette’s papers published to detail his excavations in the Nile valley. Both events acted as a springboard for an enthusiastic interest in all things Egyptian, providing jewelers with a rich source of inspiration. It is here that we see pharaonic motifs such as scarabs used in jewelry design, similarly to some of the lots offered in this sale.
A celebration of this iconic street which is not only home to Sotheby’s but also to some of the world’s most prestigious luxury jewellery houses in the world. From the 19th century, Bond Street gained a reputation as a luxury shopping destination and this reputation has continued into the 21st century. Join us in discovering number of vintage and contemporary jewels from the following brands.
What better than an autumn engagement. This auction presents an assortment of white and fancy coloured diamond rings ranging in size and shape to suit all tastes. Our big look highlights include an impressive 9.34 carat square step-cut diamond mounted by Cartier, an elegant 6.38 carat step-cut diamond and a classic brilliant-cut diamond weighing 5.32 carats For those who prefer a more paired back look, our sale isn’t short of options with estimates for diamond rings starting from £1,800.
The brooch has shed its reputation as old fashioned and is firmly in the front of the jewellery box. Traditionally known as an elegant final touch to a lapel or dress, we should not underestimate the versatility of this type of jewel. Wearable sculptures, the brooch is independent from the body in a way that rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces are not, allowing them to be worn in a myriad of different ways. Take, for example, the double clip which we suggest securing on cuffs, necklines and belts, highlighting an outfit’s silhouette. Brooches should also be considered as a go-to hair accessory, from adorning formal bridal updos or chic messy buns. And men, do take note, the brooch counts the likes of Timothée Chalamet, Regé-Jean Page and Travis Barker as fans.
