BIRMINGHAM, UK – The cover lot in Fellows’ September 17 Antique & Modern Jewellery Auction is a pair of South Sea cultured pearl and diamond ear pendants that boast a unique and interesting design. The pearls are suspended by intricate diamond set cages, a setting that really highlights the luster of the stones.
Pearls have long been synonymous with opulence, to the extent that in 1916 Cartier purchased his 5th Avenue store by trading for two pearl necklaces. Assuredly, this lot isn’t quite as costly, and has an estimate of £3,000-£5,000.
Chosen for the back cover of Fellows’ catalog is Lot 199, an Art Deco platinum, diamond and onyx panel brooch. Of geometric form, it is sleek and inherently stylish. The estimated total diamond weight for this piece is 3.20 carats, its color is H-J, and it carries French assay marks. The estimate is £6,000-£8,000.
Lot 32 is a late-19th-century pendant that probably was retailed by renowned Victorian jeweler E.W Streeter. This bright enamel, peridot and diamond pendant bears a remarkable resemblance to a pendant exhibited by Streeter at the 1872 International Exhibition. It has the guide price of £5,000-£7,000 and is sure to attract attention from collectors and connoisseurs alike.
The birthstone for September is the sapphire, and there are some real beauties in Fellows’ sale.
Lot 17 is a Burmese sapphire and diamond dress ring that is accompanied by a report from the British Gemological Institute stating the stone has no signs of thermal treatment. This ring has the estimate of £1,000-£1,500.
A host of stunning modern pieces are entered in the auction, with designer names including Cartier, Bulgari, Gucci and Tiffany & Co. A standout piece is Lot 296, a mid-20th Century gold bracelet by Georg Jensen, estimated at £460-£660.
Also, lot 285 is a pair of striking enamel diamond and ruby ear studs by Cartier. Part of the Le-Baiser-du Dragon collection, they will be offered at £2,500-£3,500.