Antique and Art Deco brooches with their fine detailing and exquisite design continue to appeal to collectors.
• An array of Antique and Art Deco gems captured attention
• Rings were among the most popular lots of the day
• Fine pieces from big-name makers caused a stir
MONROVIA, CA – Moran’s last Fine Jewelry & Timepieces auction of the year brought out the collectors on Tuesday, who vied for a glittering selection of jewels and gems. Signed pieces, good gems, and important jewels proved ever popular with the audience. Moran’s already has a selection of jewelry for their May auction which is sure to be a great sale as well.
Antique and Art Deco brooches with their fine detailing and exquisite design continue to appeal to collectors. An important orchid brooch designed by Paulding Farnham for Tiffany & Co. was one of the most highly anticipated lots in the auction and sold for an astounding $43,750 (all prices realized include Moran’s 25% buyer’s premium). A sweet bow brooch made of onyx and diamonds by Cartier Paris brought $25,000 at the block. A beautiful Art Deco rock crystal and diamond brooch sold to a determined phone bidder for $34,375.
Those in need of a ring found plenty of fine options at the auction. A beautiful Edwardian crossover ring set was one of the most popular lots on preview and brought $28,125 at the block. A stunning Colombian emerald and diamond ring with its classic design appealed to collectors on Tuesday and sold for $16,250. One of the most unusual pieces in the sale was an Art Deco ring featuring a uniquely-shaped sapphire and caused a frenzy when it hit the block, soaring past its estimate to bring $34,375.
Signed pieces by leading makers are always a hit with the crowd and Tuesday’s sale was no exception. A Buccellati peridot and diamond ring with its Moorish-inspired design brought $6,875 at the block. A French Hermès “Boucle Sellier” bracelet with buckle clasp is a classic piece and brought $12,500. A magnificent Patek Philippe 18k gold perpetual calendar wristwatch commanded attention and sold for $59,375.
Moran’s is starting the 2020 auction year off with a slate of fine auctions beginning with Studio Fine Art and Studio Decorative Art auctions in January. Spring will see the annual California & American Fine Art, Art of the American West, 20th Century Art + Design, Prints & Multiples, Fine Jewelry, and Luxury auctions as well as a special single-consignor auction featuring the important collection of Cindy and Stuart Tietze-Hodosh.
For upcoming highlights, online catalogues, and more information on these sales, visit Moran’s website: www.johnmoran.com. Bidding is now available online via Moran’s new mobile app Moran Mobile, available on both iOS and Android operating systems. Live bidding on a desktop is available through bid.johnmoran.com; bidding is also supported by telephone, absentee, or in person.
Consignment inquiries are always welcome.
“Signed pieces, good gems, and important jewels proved ever popular with the audience.”