This week, Sotheby’s will unveil a group of extraordinary jewels from an Important Asian American collection, coming to auction this autumn in New York and Geneva. This extensive and well-rounded jewellery collection was assembled by a prominent female collector, who over the course of five decades acquired important pieces from top jewellery houses – in particular Cartier. She also greatly admired the work of Van Cleef & Arpels and owned several jewels by ‘the King of Diamonds’, Harry Winston. The result is a delightful selection of pieces, formed by the intertwining of two distinct strands. On the one hand, she purchased a core of more substantial, classically styled pieces adorned with important diamonds and gemstones; and on the other, she was drawn to fashion-oriented, light-hearted jewels, which she treasured and enjoyed wearing on a regular basis.
At the heart of the collection is an extraordinary Art Deco sapphire and diamond bracelet created by Cartier in 1927 – during what many consider the golden era for the prestigious jewellery house. The bracelet is adorned with a sensational Burmese sapphire weighing 47.07 carats, flanked by two stunning pear-shaped white diamonds weighing 9.27 and 8.60 carats respectively (estimate: $2-3 million / CHF 2-3 million).
The collection, which also includes Chinese works of Art to be auctioned at Sotheby’s New York during Asia Week, will be divided between Sotheby’s sale of Fine Jewels in New York on 25 September and the flagship auction of Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels in Geneva on 11 and 13 November. Highlights from the collection will go on view for the first time in New York and Los Angeles in September. This will be followed by an international tour with stops in Hong Kong, Singapore, Taipei, London and Geneva.
Speaking ahead of the sale, David Bennett, Worldwide Chairman of Sotheby’s Jewellery Division, commented, “This wonderful collection of jewels and gemstones was clearly assembled with both passion and joy, and we know that they were treasured and often worn by their owner. The Cartier Art Deco bracelet is stunning in its design; its central stone is a sensational ‘sugar loaf’ Burmese sapphire of the highest quality and colour. Timeless pieces such as these are sure to have global appeal.”
Describing the bracelet, Daniela Mascetti, European Chairman of Sotheby’s Jewellery Division, added, “The sapphire and diamond bracelet at the heart of the collection is a truly superb example of the art of Cartier. Its strong and powerful geometric design, somehow reminiscent of architectural solidity, is the perfect foil for the exceptional Burmese cabochon sapphire. The perfectly balanced design, coupled with superb gemstones and remarkable workmanship, makes this jewel a true masterpiece.”