Sotheby’s Geneva to hold the first in a new series of regular Jewellery sales

Sotheby’s Geneva has introduced a new date in its calendar of sales in Geneva. The auction is of Fine Jewels and will take place on 1 June 2017. This is the first in a new series of regular Jewellery sales.

The sale will be led by a captivating selection of jewellery creations by one of the most original and creative Jewellery designers - Michele della Valle. Comprising 82 lots, the group of creations is a joyful and vibrant reflection of the Geneva-based Italian designer’s unique and exuberant style. The pieces reflect his unabashed celebration of colour and form that become the perfect accessories for the season ahead.

Describing the collection, David Bennett, Worldwide Chairman of Sotheby’s International Jewellery Division, said, “One of the most original and creative contemporary jewellery designers, Michele della Valle transforms stories, daydreams and fairytales into bold, imaginative creations. It is a great pleasure to be presenting a selection of his wonderfully evocative pieces in June, at the launch of Sotheby’s Geneva’s brand new auction series, Fine Jewels.”

“His pieces celebrate the wonder of colour; gemstones are juxtaposed against each other in a mosaicked kaleidoscope of dazzling brilliance...” - Amber Michelle, Michele della Valle, Jewels and Myths.

The auction house noted that alongside the huge success of Sotheby’s existing sales of Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels, its Fine Jewels sales will offer collectors new and exciting opportunities to acquire beautiful and rare pieces across a broad price range.

Italian-born Michele della Valle notes, “My designs are cheerful, never dramatic. I never forget that they are meant to bring joy, to beautify the wearer.”

The defining characteristic of Michele della Valle’s signature pieces is their rich and abundant colour. Daring to experiment, he combines precious stones with gems. His creations are renowned for their bold and bright hues, sometimes in unusual juxtaposition but always crisp and well-defined.

His collections being inspired by flora and fauna is evident in many of his pieces including the intricate detail of a brooch in the form of a saffron flower to the strong yet delicate petals of a floral-design necklace. The beauty of nature and Michele della Valle’s ability to bring it to life is also evidenced by his pieces featuring animals, which often feature movement built into their intricate shapes. Bejewelled snakes, exotic birds and other bright, vivacious creatures reveal the playful side. “The delicate wing of a butterfly, the exotic shape of a saltwater fish and the sinewy snake all come alive from the play of light and colour brought forward by the gems.” - Amber Michelle, Michele della Valle, Jewels and Myths.