Fine jewellery collectors are in for a massive treat this week, with the launch of auctioneers Strauss & Co’s first online timed jewellery sale offering some rare finds featuring magnificent gemstones and extraordinary craftsmanship.
Bina Genovese, managing executive at Strauss & Co, says that trends and market research indicate a growing appetite for luxury assets as alternate investments, which includes high-value jewellery and precious metals. This has enhanced the appeal of pre-owned jewellery, heightened by the pandemic-induced lockdown and opening of online sales channels.
The Strauss & Co jewellery sale has been curated by a new team of jewellery specialists including Kim Goeller, who procures diamonds and gemstones for local and international private clients, and esteemed gemmologists Tim Watson and Mike Ellis.
“As clients’ preferences evolve with global investment trends, we remain dedicated to innovation to meet the growing expectations of our community of buyers,” says Susie Goodman, managing executive at Strauss & Co.
“We pride ourselves in offering best-in-class service, whether it involves handling contemporary art consignments or evaluating exquisite jewellery. The new team brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the company.”
Goeller, who has extensive experience in the jewellery industry, says the rand value estimates for the auction are “unbelievably reasonable”.
Another exceptional piece is the 18k white gold hinged diamond bangle (estimate R250 000-R260 000) comprising 11 rows of alternating white diamond baguettes and rounds, with a net weight of 68.56 grams.
“This is an absolute work of art,” says Goeller.
Of the gemstone jewellery pieces, the platinum three-stone emerald cocktail ring with a sizeable 2-carat centre stone flanked by 1-carat emeralds and surrounded by 26 small 8-cut diamonds (estimate R180,000-R200,000) is a showstopper. Emeralds are known for being included but this piece has very few inclusions, making it a highly valuable investment, says Goeller.
Among the pieces estimated at R60 000-R65 000 is an 18k yellow gold Bulgari disk-shaped pendant, the design reminiscent of inscriptions found on ancient Roman coins and set with 72 round cut diamonds totalling 2.7 carats.
There is also an 18k rose and white gold Nudo solitaire diamond ring by Pomellato embellished with 105 round cut white diamonds and 2.02 carats pavé.
Another unique piece is the 18k yellow gold, ruby and diamond tennis bracelet (estimate R60 000-R65 000) featuring 3.6 carats of tapered rubies set with 18 round white brilliant-cut diamonds of 0.05 carats each. Measuring around 19cm and weighing 27,8g, this is another rare piece because of the many tiny, tapered rubies perfectly calibrated.
This Strauss & Co sale of an eclectic selection of “mostly weighty and bold” creations includes pieces by other international brands such as Tiffany & Co and Boucheron as well as well-known SA jewellery brands such as Jenna Clifford, Browns, and Bellagio.
The collection is available to view online until Monday, 24 July at 2pm. Prospective buyers can register and place their bids at Strauss & Co.
