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.

 

Lot 10, A Paulding Farnham for Tiffany & Co. enamel and diamond orchid brooch, price realized: $43,750

Lot 10, A Paulding Farnham for Tiffany & Co. enamel and diamond orchid brooch, price realized: $43,750

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.

Lot 35, A French Cartier Art Deco diamond and onyx bow brooch, price realized: $25,000

Lot 35, A French Cartier Art Deco diamond and onyx bow brooch, price realized: $25,000

“Signed pieces, good gems, and important jewels proved ever popular with the audience.”

Auction Highlights