Following stellar autumn auctions by Christies and Sotheby's, it's time for Bonhams to take centre stage with some magnificent jewels of its own. The Bonhams Fine Jewellery sale on 6 December features Burmese rubies, emeralds, pearls and, of course, diamonds, set into an eclectic array of vintage jewellery.
One of the 'newest' lots, and arguably the best of the bunch, is a 1935 diamond single-stone ring, weighing in at 19.56ct and estimated at £315,000 to £440,000. The delectable diamond, which combines I colour and VVS2 clarity, is brought to sparkling life by the famous Asscher cut. One of the older lots is a 17th century Spanish Colonial gold pendant, decorated with parrots. Estimated at £60,000 to £80,000, this ornately detailed piece utilises enamel work, rubies and cabochon jewels to bring these exotic birds to vibrant life. Extremely fashionable at the time, South American parrots were traded amongst the wealthiest residents of 16th and 17th century Madrid and considered highly exotic.
It's no secret that both Grace Kelly and Elizabeth Taylor loved to wear Van Cleef & Arpels. The master of the mystery setting is out in full force in this sale, with a number of the highlight lots bearing the French fine jeweller's signature. The most striking Van Cleef & Arpels piece is a 1926 Gatsbyesque Art Deco brooch, estimated at £250,000 to £350,000, with a bold, angular finish with intersecting steps and squares, set off by natural pearl, emeralds and diamonds.
Other Van Cleef & Arpels lots feature dramatic Burmese rubies, including an Art Deco ruby and diamond ring and matching bracelet, the latter estimated at £40,000 to £60,000. "Van Cleef & Arpels has a long tradition of expertise, and it is clear to see why its designs attracted the great and the good," says Jean Ghika, Director of Bonhams Jewellery Department for the UK and Europe. "It is a pleasure to offer such striking examples of Van Cleef & Arpels designs, especially the unusual Art Deco pearl, diamond and emerald brooch and the Burmese ruby and diamond ring and bracelet. High-quality pieces like this are much sought-after."
The Bonhams Fine Jewellery sale will take place on 6 December at Bonhams, New Bond Street, London.
