Christie’s London Important Jewels auction on November 27th was the place to see and be seen this month – and of course, it was their last sale before Christmas. For the opportunity to pick up some of the finest pieces for the festive season, this sale was hard to beat, and there were some truly stunning works of art from which to choose.
History of Art-Deco Jewellery.
The term Art Deco originates in 1925’s landmark exhibition in Paris, the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, where the new style was celebrated and presented to a public hungry for modernism and lavish opulence after the strictures and suffering of World War I. Women, in particular, were enjoying more liberated lives than ever before, freedom reflected in their daring flapper dresses, adoption of trousers and short hairstyles.
Art-Deco Beauties
Christie’s latest sale started with 33 lots on offer from Cartier including an art-deco clip embellished with aquamarine and diamonds (Queen Elizabeth II is said to own a similar one) and some stunning Cartier wristwatches, most people who attended were hard-pushed to walk away empty-handed.
Elegant weddings
For brides-to-be, there were plenty of tiaras on offer – eight to be exact, with one lot, a 19th-century diamond tiara, going for a mere £15-£20k. Perfect for those looking for something really special for their big day!
Other auction highlights included 6 pieces by Rene Lalique, including a decadent Burmese Sapphire pendant. Van Cleef & Arpels jewellery was also popular, with their art-deco 1940s diamond and moonstone sapphire ring sure to make someone very happy when they find it under the tree on Christmas morning!
Of course, if you missed the auction, there’s still plenty of time to pick up some stunning jewellery for the one you love this Christmas at one of the many boutiques in Hatton Garden, whether you’re looking for some elegant Cartier diamond earrings or a stylish, contemporary necklace.
