Price Realized: $28,575
Los Angeles, CA — 2024 has been a year of growth and achievement for the Jewelry & Watches department at John Moran Auctioneers, thanks in part to the exciting addition of Kelly Sitek, G.G., to the team. With over a decade of experience in the auction world, Kelly’s deep passion for fine arts, craftsmanship, and the stories behind each piece has made her a valuable asset to Moran’s jewelry experts.
Kelly’s journey into jewelry began with a BA in Fine Arts from Albion College, where she developed a keen eye for detail. Her passion grew during her 10 years working at an auction house in Los Angeles, where she studied gemstones and minerals, further solidified by her 2016 graduation from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
Kelly’s approach goes beyond technical expertise; she focuses on the unique stories behind each piece, whether it’s an Art Deco or Victorian jewel. Her arrival at Moran’s Jewelry & Watches department has brought a fresh perspective, perfectly aligning with the company’s commitment to providing an immersive experience for collectors.
Kelly Sitek, G.G., Specialist
““Cartier has won me over this year with its classic design which turned quite whimsical with our Snoopy offerings. Cartier is known for timeless, polished pieces and the touch of nostalgia that they brought to their archive with the snoopy design for me touched a childlike place in my spirit. I can only image it is the same place the buyers of our September pieces felt when they kept entering in one more bid.””
The exhibition “Modern Alchemy” at the Laguna Art Museum this year brought a captivating two-part event that began with an educational lecture and jewelry panel discussion featuring renowned experts, including designer Adam Neeley, curator Tim Adams, and our very own Tom Burstein (Director of Jewelry & Watches), and Maranda Moran (specialist in Native American and Mexican jewelry). The panelists engaged in a fascinating discussion, sharing insights on what makes jewelry exceptional, current market trends—including the growing demand for Native American materials—and the cultural significance of “worn” jewelry.
Drawing parallels between the transformative nature of alchemy and the creative process in jewelry making, “Modern Alchemy” provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the artistry, craftsmanship, and historical significance embedded in fine jewelry. The experts explored how raw materials are transformed into extraordinary pieces, delved into the symbolic power of jewelry as personal talismans and carriers of cultural narratives, and discussed current market dynamics. By framing the discussion within the context of alchemy, the exhibition highlighted the magical transformation that occurs in jewelry creation, bridging the gap between historical mysticism and contemporary artistry. This unique perspective offered a fresh view on the enduring allure of fine jewelry, enhancing public appreciation for jewelry as an art form and contributing to the celebration of diverse cultural traditions in jewelry-making.
Cartier: An 18K Gold Snoopy Pendant Price Realized: $33,020
The excitement continued with a special “What’s it Worth?” event, where attendees had the opportunity to bring in their own jewelry for valuations by Moran’s specialists. Tom expressed his enthusiasm for the event, “Being able to connect with collectors is why we love this job. Every piece tells a story and when we get to hear them directly from the owner, it makes the piece that much more special.” With Tom and Kelly’s expertise and more educational events ahead, Moran’s is set to continue offering exceptional auctions, setting industry standards, and providing unique learning opportunities, ensuring its position as a premier destination for jewelry enthusiasts.
“Cartier has won me over this year with its classic design which turned quite whimsical with our Snoopy offerings. Cartier is known for timeless, polished pieces and the touch of nostalgia that they brought to their archive with the snoopy design for me touched a childlike place in my spirit. I can only image it is the same place the buyers of our September pieces felt when they kept entering in one more bid.”
Price Realized: $20,320
Our stay served as a reminder for me and a valuable lesson for our daughter: what truly matters in life are the friendships we have the chance to cultivate, the willingness to say “yes” to an invitation—and, in our case, the appreciation that art and antiques (along with a dash of serendipity) happen to be the blend that brought us all together.
Currently, I am at a stage in my career where the age gap between myself and many of our clients is closing. This reality has better positioned me to understand and strategize around the needs of the people we serve on a fundamentally broader scale. The life changes we experience—whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a divorce, the downsizing of a residence, or other significant events — are constants we help people navigate daily. Fulfillment in my daily work no longer comes from landing the best deal; it now involves working closely with clients, listening to their stories, understanding how they became passionate about their collections, and helping them transition to the next chapter in their lives.
The company that John Moran founded in 1969 has grown exponentially; this exciting newsletter is a testament to that. With over 40 employees and more than 30 auctions per year, Moran’s is in growth mode. Each day, I am fortunate to collaborate and work side by side with my colleagues, viewing the business through their eyes, their excitement, and sharing their successes. I cannot help but feel that this is how my father felt watching me on my journey.
Price Realized: $25,400