This exquisite Edwardian diamond bracelet, recently consigned for auction in our Sydney premises, is a magnificent family heirloom handed down over several generations. Centrally set with an old European cut diamond weighing approximately 3.25cts, the bracelet features 284 diamonds in total and is set within an ornate scalloped heart and wave patterned platinum mount, typical of the decorative and flamboyant Belle Époque period.
The Edwardian era was a time of increasing prosperity, representing a shift, aesthetically and socially, from the conservatism of the Victorian era. Platinum and diamonds took centre stage in jewellery and, although this bracelet portrays elements of the Art Deco period, its design is more organic and fluid than the geometric patterns of the Art Deco period.
In a story often thought so typical of auction houses, yet in reality, so rare, the vendor walked into our office clutching an advert from The Financial Review, which featured an elegant diamond tiara sold in our recent Fine Jewels Auction and asked if we could value his bracelet.
The quality of the stones, graded I-J/VVS-VS, as well as the craftsmanship involved in creating such a bespoke piece in platinum, a notoriously difficult metal, is extraordinary and we are thrilled to be presenting this exceptional example of Belle Époque jewellery in our forthcoming Fine Jewels Auction on 2 September, with an estimate of $80,000-100,000.
Please contact Julie Foster, Head of Jewellery, for further details.