LONDON.- A wealth of bidding on Bond Street turned Bonhams Fine Jewellery sale into a marathon event, running late into the evening of 17th September, 2016.

The sale made a total of £4.2million. Natural pearls continued to bask in particularly impressive prices: Bonhams says that prices of natural pearls are now hitting record prices because of their increasing rarity – overfishing and pollution mean the supply of new natural pearls is ever waning.

Seventy-five pearls, fastened with a diamond clasp, made up the most valuable lot in the sale - a single-strand natural saltwater pearl necklace dating from circa 1910. The necklace sold to a buyer on the telephone for £194,500.

Two more pearl necklaces shone among the top five prices. A single row pearl necklace composed of 70 pearls captured the heart of one determined telephone bidder who secured the necklace for a staggering £110,500 – more than ten times its £7,000-9,000 pre-sale estimate.

A three row necklace of natural saltwater pearls quadrupled estimates to sell for £92,500. A natural pearl and diamond ring near tripled its £15,000-20,000 estimates as it sold for £47,500.

The single natural saltwater pearl on an intricately engraved band, is delicately set throughout with diamonds. Diamonds also doubled their estimates.

The second highest price in the auction was achieved by a 12.63 carat, fancy yellow diamond ring which sold for a dazzling £146,500.

Statement jewels and signed pieces achieved outstanding results. Lots exceeded estimates as buyers competed to secure the unique pieces: A sapphire and diamond 'pelouse' - or 'lawn' - suite by Van Cleef and Arpels which sold for £146,500.

The choker and bracelet are fashioned as a 'lawn' of circular-cut sapphires, interspersed with diagonal rows of diamonds. A ring and earclips complete the set in a matching sapphire and diamond bombé design.

An adorable rare coral and diamond snail brooch by Cartier Paris, dating from the 1930s, achieved £27,500 against an estimate of £4,000-6,000.

A coral and diamond snail brooch, by Cartier. Photo: Bonhams.


The snail’s carved coral shell sits on a diamond-set body with onyx belly and eyes made of ruby.

A Cartier turquoise and diamond cocktail ring of bombé design, dating from the 1960s sold for £17,500. The ring, set with turquoise stones on one side and brilliant-cut diamonds on the other, near quadrupled its pre-sale estimates.

Bonhams sells more jewellery lots each year than any other international auction house and has more dedicated jewellery auctions worldwide.

Jean Ghika, Director of Jewellery at Bonhams, commented on the sale: “The market for natural pearls continues to escalate with good quality specimens attracting a discerning international clientele. Signed period jewels also made astonishing prices, underlining how quality statement jewels are highly sought after by ladies who require a unique look.” 


More Information: http://artdaily.com/news/72963/Pearls-bask-in-the-limelight-at-Bonhams-Fine-Jewellery-Sale#.VBxyd1a4nHg[/url]
Copyright © artdaily.org

Previous Article Next Article
“Janet, thank-you for everything you do. As I said before, you are truly an artist, and that is why it is so special buying jewelry from you.” Peter, Atlanta, GA

” Beauty, exquisite design, pleasant and personalized attention. These qualities have been constant in our 20 years of shopping with Janet and Jeff Deleuse – Two exceptionally talented and caring people. The Best!’ Helen P.,Belvedere

"This store has a very pleasant environment and Jeff and Janet are both kind, wonderful people. I used Jeff a few times for appraisals and he was very thorough and was happy to answer lots of questions. He uses scientific methods and tests rather than going solely by appearance as some jewelers will try to do, and his expertise is well respected. On one occasion, he even went out of his way to help expedite a deal for me. He has my highest recommendation. Suzanne T., San Rafael, CA

“Jeff is an incredible gemologist who knows everything there is to know about gem stones. He is a true professional and can be trusted. The quality of their work is impeccible and always consistent. I would recommend Deleuse Jewelers to anyone looking for a new, “bauble,” for themselves or someone special!” Terri B., Ross

"I have used Deleuse Jewelers for many years - for everything from purchasing jewelry to repairing jewelry to getting appraisals on jewelry. Their service and work is superb. I highly recommend them." Suzanne S., Tiburon, CA

"I purchased this beautiful chain from Janet Deleuse about 3 weeks ago. It was an online purchase so I was hoping I would be pleased. It exceeded my expectations as it was exactly as pictured. Delicate and perfectly crafted. Packing was very secure and shipping was quick. I would not hesitate to purchase from Deleuse again! Michele, New Jersey

“Janet and Jeff designed and crafted our wedding rings and did a great job. They worked with existing diamonds we had in an antique ruby cocktail ring, added the sapphire stone and made a beautiful pendant with the ruby. In addition, they designed earrings for our daughters. All are still in great shape today. They are easy to work with and very reliable and trustworthy.” Peg M., San Anselmo

Accreditation includes diplomas from the Gemological Institute of America and the American Gem Society and thirty years of experience.

Recently Viewed