Rago’s announces its annual holiday sale of fine jewelry in 500 lots on Sunday, December 7th, 2008 at Noon. This is largely unreserved estate property from a broad scope of private collections.
“Buyers in this economy are determined to spend wisely and buying at auction is a far better way to get value for your dollar than retail,” says Sarah Churgin. “The jewelry in this auction will appeal both to the collector of world-class work and those seeking beautiful holiday gifts, priced right.”
There are many wonderful pieces of jewelry and accessories in the $500 – $3,000 range. A pair of 18k Japanesque earrings from Tiffany & Co., ca. 1878; a large collection of Art Nouveau enameled gold flowers; engagement rings, watches, necklaces, bracelets and earrings in centuries of styles – Rococo to Aesthetic movement to Modern.
Those in search of the truly exceptional will pay attention to a natural yellow diamond ring of approximately 2.4 cts., ca. 1920 (presale estimate $25,000-35,000). A starburst pin/pendant dated 1882 centers on a fine OEC diamond surrounded by floriform clusters of dementoid garnets and diamond set leaves (presale estimate $3,500-4,500). Art Deco fans will love a Cartier lapel pin watch in diamond, onyx and enamel (presale estimate $40,000-50,000). Van Cleef and Arpels is represented by a mid-century modern diamond and gold bracelet in 14k yellow gold (presale estimate $4,000-6,000). Rago’s is also offering art jewelry designed by Giacomo Manzu, as well as artist Roy Lichtenstein and Modern master Ed Wiener. Manzu cast a series of 18k yellow gold brooches, each brooch depicting one of the animals that adorn his doors for Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Only six sets of five animals were cast, ca. 1966. Rago’s is selling the brooch of a bird (presale estimate $5,000-8,000). The sale also includes 40 lots of unmounted gemstones and diamonds.
Exhibition begins Saturday, November 29, 2008. Catalogues in print or online at ragoarts.com. Call 609.397.9374 or email [email protected].