The summer lull between the spring and autumn auction seasons can whip up quite a withdrawal for jewelry addicts. Luckily, Monte Carlo-based Artcurial delivers the perfect fix with its Fine Jewellery sale scheduled for July 21st and 22nd. More than 500 lots of jewelry spanning several centuries, from the 19th century to today, will tide collectors and connoisseurs over.
A Diamond and Platinum Pendant, by Henri Vever, circa 1900 – Estimate: 10,000 – 12,000 €
The sale is a true mix of high and accessible across all jewelry periods, and there is a jewel that should appeal to at least every kind of collector. Among the older pieces offered, a true treasure is an elegant diamond pendant by Henri Vever, circa 1900 (est. 10,000 – 12,000€) along with a number of signed Art Deco pieces by Cartier, Templier and Tiffany. Mid-century pieces really shine, particularly three pieces by Marchak. The Seventies era of jewelry, still all the rage right now, are well represented with several sets by Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, Boucheron and Cartier, while unique artist jewelry from the same decade era include works by Poleo and Cesar. Newer pieces by contemporary designers Lorenz Baumer and Margherita Burgener keep the sale fresh and current.
A Sapphire, Diamond and 18k White Gold Ring – Accompanied by two certificates (SSEF & Gubelin) stating that the 22.80-carat sapphire is of Kashmir origin, shows no indication of heating and a letter from SSEF stating that”a natural sapphire from Kashmir of this size and quality is very rare and thus can be considered a true treasure of nature”. Estimate: 400,000 – 500,000 €
Of course, there will always be the major diamonds and stunning stones – this summer sale is no different. The major rocks to keep an eye on include a 22.80-carat cabochon Kashmir sapphire ring (est. 400,000 to 500,000 €) and a 3.03-carat Fancy Intense pink diamond ring (est. 1,800,000 to 2,000,000 €).
Here are my favorites from the sale, which are not necessarily the most expensive pieces but those that I find the most interesting, collectible and/or wearable:
