FEATURES ARCHIVE

What makes this month’s sale extra special?
There is so much to mention! From retro jewels and the Irene Hilda Collection and the amazing collection from a private distinguished collector which includes an Art Deco bracelet by Boucheron, an emerald and diamond brooch as well as a diamond ring both by Suzanne Belperron.

The Irene Hilda collection includes some rather exciting pieces; tell us a little about her.
Irene Hilda, born on 8 December 1920, was a dancer, singer and actress before and after World War II. Now in her 90s she is selling this extraordinary collection from a lifetime spent in the limelight.The majority of her collection is from the 1950s, when she was touring London, Paris and New York at the peak of her success. For anyone who has an appreciation of show business, in all its glamour, these are very special pieces.

Why do you think Retro is so popular in today’s jewellery market?
The wonderful thing about jewellery itself is that each jewel is both a piece of history and a work of art. Coming from a general auction background I still see jewels as little works of art.Today the jewellery field is strongly connected with the world of fashion. Ultimately, it is all about re-discovering glamour.

If you could take home one piece from this sale what would it be?
The Belle Époque cigarette case by Cartier. It is so refined and elegant, a delicate work of art.

If you were to commission a piece of jewellery what would you describe?
Something with a very strong sense of design, with unusual materials used in unusual ways. I would choose raw crystal and diamonds, or wood and citrine, or something similarly paradoxical, and ultimately it would have to be very high quality.

Who is your favourite jewellery designer?
I love a jewel when it is amazing and ingenious. Design is more important to me than anything else.  Jeanne Boivin is my favourite designer.