One of the greatest satisfactions in putting any important collection together is the sense of accomplishment in finding the finest examples in any particular field. To blend them into a coherent pattern while finding exquisite objects that provide the purest pleasure is a skill that recquires a discerning eye and strict discipline.
While this is a collection of only sixteen pieces, the greatest amount of care has clearly been taken in selecting either the highest quality or timeless design that will endure the capricious nature of fashion. An example of this is the magnificent diamond necklace by Harry Winston (lot 556) that uses not only a range of the finest diamonds but is manufactured and designed in a way that is as contemporary now as when it was made thirty or forty years ago. The sophistication of design offers a spectacular object that could never be criticized for being ostentatious. The same can be said of the elegant and graceful emerald and diamond necklace by Tiffany (lot 551). Added to this is the fascinating history surrounding Tiffany as a major gem dealer at the end of the nineteenth century and their acquisition of spectacular stones from the collection of Princess Eugénie in 1887. The other name that is also a paragon of the 20th century jewelers' art is Van Cleef & Arpels, naturally one would expect to see their exquisite work of invisible setting and this is illustrated not only by an exquisite pin but also one not in the customary flower form.
There are three pieces that have been highlighted in this introduction but it could so easily have been any three or four. This collection gives any buyer the opportunity to enhance their own, large or small, at a time when objects of this pedigree seem more difficult to find within an ever expanding market.
The Property of
A PRIVATE COLLECTOR
Sold in Conjunction with Family Trusts
AN ELEGANT DIAMOND FRINGE NECKLACE, BY VAN CLEEF & ARPELS
Details
AN ELEGANT DIAMOND FRINGE NECKLACE, BY VAN CLEEF & ARPELS
Designed as a baguette and circular-cut diamond chain, the front suspending a graduated pear, baguette and circular-cut diamond fringe, the largest pear-shaped diamond weighing approximately 1.44 cts., mounted in platinum--14¾ ins. long
Signed V.C.A. for Van Cleef & Arpels, No. N.Y.19618
Total estimated weight of the remaining diamonds by calculation approximately 26.00 cts.
Designed as a baguette and circular-cut diamond chain, the front suspending a graduated pear, baguette and circular-cut diamond fringe, the largest pear-shaped diamond weighing approximately 1.44 cts., mounted in platinum--14¾ ins. long
Signed V.C.A. for Van Cleef & Arpels, No. N.Y.19618
Total estimated weight of the remaining diamonds by calculation approximately 26.00 cts.