Saffronart’s Auction of Fine Jewels is a Tribute to Nature

Saffronart’s upcoming online auction of Fine Jewels will take place on 15 – 16 October 2019. It features a curated selection of versatile jewellery that merges traditional Indian craftsmanship with modern sensibilities, as well as fine gems and signed collectible pieces selected for their uniqueness and rarity.

Thematically, the auction is an Ode to Nature, and the collection of 174 lots will highlight the influence of floral and celestial motifs in jewellery design and techniques, as well as the natural processes that are responsible for the creation of gemstones, with their diverse and mesmerising hues, qualities and optical effects.

A Five Strand Natural Pearl and Diamond Necklace (Lot 65) leads the sale with an estimate of INR 90 lakhs – 1.2 crores (USD 128,575 – 171,430). It is created with evenly formed pearls that graduate in size and have a similar shape, lustre, colour and tone – the process of assembling such a well-matched collection takes years. Other highlights include a stunning Burmese Ruby and Diamond Ring (Lot 75) estimated at INR 48 – 55 lakhs (USD 68,575 – 78,575), and a Pair of Emerald and Diamond Earrings (Lot 74) estimated at INR 42 – 48 lakhs (USD 60,000 – 68,575).
The pieces included in the auction emphasize timeless motifs inspired by nature – such as flowers, birds, crescents and stars – that have been a part of Indian jewellery design for centuries, and their contemporary evolution. Notable examples include a Pearl, Diamond and Emerald Necklace (Lot 21) with a pendant suspending a plaque designed as two birds mirroring each other (estimate: INR 8 – 12 lakhs); and a Gemset Maang Tika or Forehead Ornament (Lot 29) set with a ruby cabochon and polki diamonds in a crescent motif (estimate: INR 4.25 – 6.25 lakhs). Among contemporary designs is a sculptural, flexible Diamond Bracelet (Lot 28) featuring a scrolling vein of lotus flowers and buds, which can also be worn as a necklace via two attachments (estimate: INR 7 – 10 lakhs); and a Pair of Rubellite and Diamond ‘Dahlia’ Earrings (Lot 26) estimated at INR 7 – 9 lakhs.

While traditional coloured gems such as emeralds, rubies and sapphires will always be coveted, more unusual semi-precious and coloured stones are increasingly attracting interest globally. Highlights among coloured stones include a Rubellite and Coloured Diamond Necklace (Lot 107) estimated at INR 28 – 32 lakhs (USD 40,000 – 45,715), and a Paraiba Tourmaline and Diamond Necklace (Lot 88) estimated at INR 18 – 22 lakhs (USD 25,715 – 31,430).

The auction also features a selection of intricately designed brooches inspired by nature, including a Diamond ‘Sunburst’ Brooch (Lot 63) estimated at INR 18 – 22 lakhs, which is reminiscent of a brooch owned – and frequently worn – by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, former First Lady of the United States, who styled it differently on each occasion. A Diamond and Pearl Brooch (Lot 166)shaped as stylised leaves set with old-cut diamonds and two pearl buds is estimated at INR 5 – 8 lakhs.

Commenting on the auction, Saffronart President and Co-founder Minal Vazirani said, “This auction is our tribute to the underlying influences that nature has had on jewellery motifs and design over centuries, and features an exceptional collection of jewels for both new buyers and seasoned collectors. The auction closely follows the second edition of Saffronart’s Jewellery Conference, which will take place on 11 – 12 October 2019 in Mumbai and explore India’s jewelled histories and cross-cultural legacies.”

Courtesy: Retail Jeweller India News Service