February 2024 | BY Amy Rushworth

 

The period known as Art Deco, which flourished during the 1920s and 1930s, is celebrated for its innovative and striking designs that have left an indelible mark on the world of fine jewellery. Our forthcoming Jewellery & Watches auction is set to feature a standout piece from the era: an exquisitely crafted Diamond, Emerald, and Sapphire pendant, exemplifying the pinnacle of Art Deco elegance and creativity.

Originating in France and reaching its zenith with the 1925 International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts in Paris, Art Deco represented a departure from the organic motifs of Art Nouveau. It embraced a new aesthetic that celebrated modernity, featuring bold geometric shapes, vibrant colour contrasts, and a penchant for luxury and technological progress. This movement significantly influenced architecture, fashion, and notably, jewellery design, introducing pieces that were both avant-garde and steeped in craftsmanship.

What is truly one of the highlights of our upcoming auction, the "floral basket" pendant, is a testament to the artistry and innovation of the Art Deco period. Created in around 1920, this pendant captures the essence of Art Deco design through its intricate detailing and harmonious blend of materials.

The piece is adorned with old brilliant cut diamonds and calibre cut sapphires and emeralds, arranged to stunning effect. The diamonds vary in size from 0.05 to 0.25 carats, with a total approximate weight of 2 carats, complementing the vivid hues of the sapphires and emeralds.

Hanging elegantly from the basket is a pear-shaped diamond, weighing approximately 2.5 carats, which adds a dramatic touch of opulence to the pendant. Set in platinum, a metal prized for its durability and the exquisite finesse it allows in jewellery making, this pendant is a masterpiece of the period's craftsmanship.

The auctioning of this remarkable Art Deco "floral basket" pendant presents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of history like no other. The piece is already stirring up much anticipation, speaking volumes about the enduring fascination with the era's designs and the value placed on exceptional craftsmanship and beauty.

Up for auction this coming Wednesday 29th February at 11am. Lot 2007.

Other stunning Art Deco pieces to go under the hammer on Wednesday include an exquisite Art Deco ring crafted by R. Bros, which boasts a sophisticated design with three French cut sapphires and four old cut diamonds, all set in 18ct gold with a milgrain finish (lot 2011), as well as a remarkable Art Deco bracelet, showcasing a stunning assembly of old cut diamonds and calibre cut Burmese sapphires, set in platinum. This piece features three principal diamonds, each approximately 0.50 carat, with the total diamond weight ranging between 13.00 and 14.00 carats. Circa 1925 (lot 2008).

Browse the full catalogue for everything available in Wednesday’s upcoming Jewellery & Watches auction now.

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