Jewellery, gold and watches are in hot demand at auction. Here, Amanda Pears, from Hansons’ jewellery department, reveals the top jewellery and watch lots in Hansons’ March Derbyshire Antiques and Collectors Auction
Bidders succumb to poison ring
Lot 110: Bidders loved this 9ct gold poison ring, historically a favourite decoration of both assassins and generals. Poison rings have an interesting history as they could be used to conceal perfume, tiny mementos – or something far more deadly! The practice began in ancient Rome where poison rings were often used to commit suicide when a painful death was unavoidable. The ring had a pre-sale estimate of £50-£60 but soared to £220.
Edwardian charmer
Lot 119: We all adored this charming example of an Edwardian marquise-shaped, gold and diamond ring. Vintage rings prove ever popular among collectors. They are worn today as both dress and engagement rings – a representation of happy memories throughout the years. The ring had a pre-sale estimate of £100-£150 and reached a hammer price of £240.
Violin brooch hits right note
Lot 139: This sweet miniature gold violin brooch with exquisite detail was surely irresistible to any violin collector. This charming brooch had a pre-sale estimate of £100-£150 but effortlessly glided to a hammer price of £240.
Rabbit’s diamond carrot!
Lot 140: This endearing 20th century gold bar brooch depicting a seated rabbit eyeing his pretty pearl and diamond carrot was too good to resist! This sweet brooch had a pre-sale estimate of £80-£120 but happily hopped away to a hammer price of £320.
Pendant perfection
Lot 178: This elegant and easily wearable gold Edwardian aquamarine and pearl pendant, suspended from a delicate chain, is all too pretty to be hidden away and deserves to compliment the fashion trends of today. The pendant had a pre-sale estimate of £120-£160 but achieved £230.
Bracelet’s powerful charm
Lot 185: The infinite charm of charm bracelets expands throughout the centuries and first appeared in 400 BC. Later Queen Victoria encouraged the trend, wearing charm bracelets that started a fashion among the European noble classes. Today charm bracelets are still enjoyed by all and this lovely rose gold chain bracelet with its suspended various charms had a pre-sale estimate of £700-£800 but topped £900.
Pocket watches in demand
Lots 290 and 293: Pocket watches were invented in the 16th century but time has never stopped ticking for the revolution of smaller timepieces compact enough to be worn. These exquisite items are not only externally beautiful but often hold within their cases fine and intricate workmanship – a hidden joy to behold.
Consequently, a JW Benson gold pocket watch with a pre-sale estimate of £200-£300 hammered at £420. Equally appealing to bidders was an 18ct gold half hunter pocket watch which ticked up to £750 from a £500-£600 guide.
Free jewellery and watch valuations
Entries are invited for monthly sales. To book a free valuation email Head of Jewellery Helen Smith: [email protected]
