Christmas gift ideas are beginning to dominate everyone’s thoughts but if you really want to find something extra special you should look to the past.
For example, imagine buying a Jane Austen fan a centuries-old Georgian topaz cross necklace similar to one the legendary author liked to wear.
We have a plethora of riches in our November 18 Fine Jewellery and Watches Auction and among them is a 211-year-old topaz cross mistakenly dismissed as tat. And yet it’s worthy of being worn round the neck of one of the most famous romantic novelists the world has ever known.
Time and again, high quality items are thought to be costume jewellery. Often people who’ve inherited items simply can’t believe they could be fortunate enough to own something of value. I hate to think how many precious gems may have ended up in a skip.
Topaz Cross From 1810 | Lot 67
No such fate awaits a beautiful George III Imperial topaz and gold cross pendant, circa 1810. The faceted topaz is set in cut-down collet settings, each terminal with bead decoration. It has an estimate of £600-£800 and bears a resemblance to a cross Austen was given by her brother. To add to the romance, it was made in the Austen era. The famous novelist lived from 1775-1871.
The topaz cross is an iconic piece of jewellery associated with Austen. In a letter to her sister Cassandra, written in May, 1801, Austen reveals that their brother, Charles, ‘has been buying gold chains and topaz crosses for us; – he must be well scolded’.
Diamond Brooch Cut For Candlelight | Lot 45
The Victorian era also offers finds filled with charm – some simply made for Christmas. A Victorian diamond crescent brooch in our November 18 auction will deliver festive sparkle. That’s because it features graduated old-cut diamonds which were cut to sparkle in candlelight. Its total diamond weight is 2.3carats, £1,500-£1,800.
Victorian Cluster Ring | Lot 36
We’ve also sourced a stunning Victorian emerald and diamond 18ct gold cluster ring. It features a striking emerald, measuring 5mm x 7mm. It shimmers within a border of old-cut diamonds, total diamond weight 0.60ct, £500-£600. Another gem that will sparkle in winter candlelight.
The beauty of antique jewellery and watches is that they deliver originality and exceptional quality for the price. The high street simply cannot offer such rich diversity. If sourcing an unusual or unique gift is important to you, jewellery auctions are perfect places to look.
Mourning Ring ‘So Clever’ | Lot 98
Even our own experts, who handle unusual finds day-in, day-out, are dazzled by discoveries. For example, Hansons’ head of jewellery Helen Smith adores a rectangular Georgian pearl and enamel gold mourning swivel ring from 1811. The front has a plaited glazed hair compartment with half pearl border. The white enamel reverse is inscribed and has a date, ‘Nov 1811’. Helen says it is an exceptional and clever piece worthy of any collection. £500-£600.
Dragonfly Delights In Amethyst | Lot 6
Moving into the early part of the 20th century, another eye-catching item is a 15ct gold dragonfly brooch. Its articulated wings are set with amethyst. Meanwhile, its borders feature small, rose-cut diamonds, £600-£800.
Emerald Beauty | Lot 52
When it comes to quality, Helen also recommends an emerald and diamond three stone 18ct gold ring comprising a 3.20 carats oval emerald with single old-cut diamonds either side, total diamond weight 2 carats, £6,000-£8,000.
Exceptional Diamond Solitaire | Lot 48
Shining bright among the lots is an exceptionally nice diamond solitaire 18ct gold ring. Its round, brilliant-cut diamond is an impressive 3.8 carats and its assessed clarity VVS1-2, £10,000-12,000.
Cartier Class | Lot 11
And we can’t forget Cartier. A pair of gold ‘Magnolia’ Cartier tri-coloured circular earrings in yellow, white and rose gold have a guide price of £1,400-£1,800
Omega’s 1960s Style | Lot 99
But what about the men in your life? Vintage designer watches have been a major auction success story in recent years. There are keen collectors worldwide searching for quality and rarity. Items which may tick the box for them include a gents’ Omega Speedmaster chronograph wristwatch, circa 1960s, with a round dark grey/black dial, £11,000-£12,000.
Art Deco Watch | Lot 104
Another example expected to catch bidders’ eyes due to its rarity is a gents’ Art Deco 18ct gold Universal Geneve Compur chronograph wristwatch, 1937, with a round silvered dial, £3,000-£4,000. These are investment pieces destined to grow in value in a market that gets stronger with the passage of time. View the November 18 Fine Jewellery, Watches and Wine and Whisky Auction catalogue at www.hansonslive.co.uk.
FREE VALUATIONS
Anything like this at home you no longer require? Hansons is inviting entries for all forthcoming auctions. We offer free valuations, by appointment, at Hansons, Heage Lane, Etwall, Derbyshire, Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings. To book an appointment, email [email protected] or call 01283 733988. Contact jewellery expert Helen Smith at: [email protected].
