Chinese agate carving with onyx beads, 20th century
Price: £35
This necklace is a lovely design with a large carved banded agate carving. It is paired with onyx beads and agate beads. It is elegant and undestated due to the monochrome palette but definitely makes a statement.
Art Deco citrine and pink sapphire brooch c1920
Price: £175
This is a lovely silver stickpin style brooch set with large citrines and pink sapphires. It is in a spray design with scrollwork and beading. This is Indian in origin and it unmarked.
Mexican Silver Bolo Tie with Aztec mask Head, Taxco, c1950
Price: £125
The word ‘bolo’ derives from ‘boleadora’, an Argentine or Uruguayan lariat or lasso and is used to describe this semi formal type of neckwear in which a cord is held together by a medallion of some sort so that it can be draped around the neck. Mexican silversmiths working at Taxco, the artistic centre of Mexican silver production, produced versions of the bolo in which the medallion is in the form of a hardstone mask head set in silver. In common with many, this piece has an aventurine hardstone face in the form of an Aztec mask framed by an elaborate silver headdress. Through this runs a black cord with silver tips at each end. The mask is stamped at the back ‘925’ ‘TAXCO’ ‘Cheo’ ‘MEXICO’ with an eagle mark 185 at the top left. Dating is most likely to the 1950s. The bolo was regarded as semi formal wear for a man but can equally, or even better, serve a decorative piece of neckwear for a lady with a distinct hint of South American style.
Mexican Silver Bracelet with Aztec Designs, Taxco, 1950s
Price: £65
This is a fine example of a ‘classic’ bracelet design produced by the Mexican silversmiths working at Taxco, the artistic centre of Mexican silver production. The bracelet comprises four curved rectangles of silver joined with hinges and terminating in a square push clap. When assembled the pieces form a circular bracelet which sits snugly on the wrist. Each piece has an engraved design employing Aztec motifs, so often a source for decoration on Taxco jewellery, key pattern between a triangular and a stylised floral motif on a ground etched to imitate stone. The square clasp is stamped at the back with a diamond tablet with the characters ‘GURDO925’‘FP’ and an eagle mark 4. Dating is most likely to the 1950s. FP is the Taxco silversmith who would have been active in the 1940s and 50s based on this eagle mark.
Bakelite Ivorine Mourning Brooch, British c1930
Price: £25
This is a brooch formed from bakelite intended to mimic ivory with its off white colouring. It shows a hand holding a rose and the slightly antique style reflects the fact that this was originally a Victorian design, intended to be a mourning brooch, the material of which would have been ivory (see image 4 for examples in the British Museum). Developed in New York in 1907 and patented two years later bakelite was the first plastic made from synthetic components. By the 1920s it became a popular material for jewellery and pieces were produced for some years thereafter. Dating here is probably to the 1930s or 1940s.
Russian Enamel Brooch, probably Rostov Finift, mid C20th
Price: £20
This delicate brooch with its elaborate filigree work has a circular painted enamel plaque painted in greens, pinks, light brown and yellow with scrolling lotus flowers and surrounded by fine silver decoration, with scrolling rope twist strands and slender milled ribbons inset with beads. The style and composition, combining enamel and silver work, is typical of the Russian maker ‘Rostov Finift’ (‘finift’ comes from the Greek ‘fingitis’ which means ‘gleaming’) many of whose pieces can be found on the market today. The art of painting on enamel was first developed in Rostov Veliky (125 miles northwest of Moscow) in the 18th century and continued thereafter with pieces of jewellery, made by Rostov Finift and in which enamels are surrounded by elaborate filigree work, appearing in quantity after the second World War. The pieces are not signed and attribution is mainly speculative but this brooch has much in common with other pieces believed to have been made by the same factory.
Islamic Silver Necklace with Niello work plaques, c1930
Price: £75
This is an interesting silver necklace, probably made in Turkey in the mid twentieth century. Four strands of wheat chain join seven circular plaques and terminate in a push pin clasp. The faces of the plaques are decorated with fleur-de-lis and scrolling foliage in a clover leaf format on a black ground and the square reverses are all stamped ‘925’. Similar decoration appears on the clasp.
The technique used is that of ‘niello’ work. (The word derives either from the classical Latin word ‘nigellum’ or the later mediaeval words ‘nigello’ or ‘neelo’.) Niello is a black mixture, usually of sulphur, copper, silver, and lead and used as an inlay on engraved or etched metal, especially silver. Added as a paste, it hardens to a black colour after firing and is then polished. Here it is the ground that formed from niello while the design shows though in silver, a less common version.
There is much skill in the craftsmanship here and the result is a piece of classic and timeless simplicity.
Silver Medal or Watch Fob dated 1923, B.P.C.G.S.
Price: £35
A small piece of history here which will need some unravelling. Suspended on a piece of blue ribbon from a silver bar pin marked ‘1923’ is an oval silver medal or watch fob, decorated to the front with two bands of laurel leaves, geometric shapes in an art deco style and a central gilt coloured shield with the engraved letters B.P.C.G.S. The reverse is plain with the engraved wording ‘SENIOR 1ST’ ‘APPARATUS’ ‘LMILES’ and hall marks for 1923 with the maker’s mark ‘JD&CO’, standing for Joseph Daffern & Co, silversmiths at Hatton Garden from 1908 to 1931 and producers of commemorative medals and watch fobs. ‘Apparatus’ is the Latin word used in English to denote equipment or organisation but may have had a special meaning for whatever body is indicated by the acronym on the front. We may never know but L MILES was clearly a successful and deserving recipient!
Egyptian revival Tutankhamun head silver Cuff Bracelet, 1940s
Price: £75
The iconography here needs little introduction. This elegant silver cuff bracelet displays recurring portrait heads of Tutankhamun between two plain bands at each edge. The piece carries Egyptian silver hall marks which give some indication of its date. The central character, indicating silver, is a lotus flower apparently used from the 1940s. To the left of it can be seen a loop and two dots which is the date mark for 1942 to 1943 and to the right is a mark indicating the purity of the silver, possibly reading 800 thousandths. (see https://www.silvercollection.it /EGYPTSILVER HALLMARKS). This classic piece of Egyptian revival work from the 1940s is timeless and an elegant accessory for the 2020s!
Unique Butler & Wilson Neoclassical Tiara 1980s
Price: £195
This is a very unusual piece of vintage Butler & Wilson from the 1980s. It is at the very least quite unique and it is possibly bespoke. It it extremely ornate and beautifully made with mounted festoons, putti and swans. It is finished with a large crown which is quintessential B & W. It is set with faux pearls. There are faux pearls that encircle the swans necks and hanging faux teardrop pearls along the edge. All this is built on a stiff mesh frame. It bears the Butler & Wilson mark.
As most people who love costume jewellery know, Butler & Wilson have been and are a powerhouse British brand that have been designing costume jewellery since the 1970s. Pieces like this one are quite collectable due to their age and design. There are many collectors around the world that collect both vintage and new pieces. This one is for you!
Vintage Chinese Cloisonne Bead Necklace, mid C20th
Price: £75
Cloisonne enamelling, a technique in which glass derived enamels are set on a metal ground and separated with fine wire divisions (the ‘cloisons’), is normally associated with solid forms such as vases and dishes but is employed here to create a series of thirty six similarly sized multicoloured beads in which irregularly shaped green, pink and red panels are separated by fine gold wire and laid on a gilt metal ground. These are linked with knotted cord and joined at the end by a gilt metal clasp and hook with embossed decoration of birds on a branch. The skill of the craftsmanship is obvious and produces a piece of decorative opulence. The work is Chinese and similar pieces are dated to the 1960s which seems reasonable here.
Outstanding Taxco silver and abalone Bangle c1980
Price: £200
This is a striking and large Taxco bangle that has been expertly set with curved abalone pieces and has a typical hinge and spring closure so that it is easy to get on and fits any wrist. It is marked 'TH-105', the Taxco silversmith reg number, 'Mexico' '925'.
Abalone and silver modernist design Necklace, modern
Price: £60
This is a very interesting necklace comprising geometric shapes set with abalone. The chain links mirror these shapes which adds an elegance and completeness to the design. The origin of this necklace is unclear but the work could perhaps be Greek or Cypriot. It is difficult to say definitively though as the design is so unique and abalone can be found in many parts of the world.
Art Nouveau repousse Pendant on later chain, c1910
Price: £95
This is a large repousse plaque pendant decorated in a typical Art Nouveau floral design. It is marked 'AL-P' which seems to suggest a European origin but more likely Belgium or one of the Scandinavian countries rather than France, to judge from the style. The plaque dates to the early twentieth century and is fitted with a later chain.
Prince Albert Necklace with T bar pendant c1900
Price: £95
This is a very lovely necklace comprising two Prince Albert figaro link chains combined with a T bar which would have been used to connect a gentleman's pocket watch to his waist coat. It has a markers mark 'HPJ' with an omega symbol and '925'. This could either European or American. The mark indicates that it is not British.
Indian silver onyx and carnelian pendant necklace/brooch, 2006
Price: £125
This is a very striking necklace comprising a large pendant with onyx and carnelian cabachons. Both the pendant and necklace are marked with a Birmingham import mark for 2006 together with '925' and 'DK'. The mark 'DK' is for the 'sponsor' or importer. The necklace and pendant are clearly meant to be worn together as they bear the same mark. There is also a brooch mechanism so that the piece can also be worn this way if desired.
Zuni turquoise silver pendant Necklace, modern
Price: £35
This is a delicate necklace with a pendant designed in the Native American Zuni style of fine inlay. It has the silversmiths initials 'RK' on the reverse together with '925'. It is combined with a strong box chain that is not original to the pendant.
LOT 32
Arts and Crafts brooch with carnelian and aventurine c1910
Estimate: £70 – 100
13d 21h 14m
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Egyptian silver cuff bangle with portait plaques of Pharoahs
Price: £85
This is a very detailed bangle that comprises many placques that depict Egyptian rulers Nefertiti, Ramses III and Tutankhamun. These are interspersed with Egyptian lotus flower icons. Bears Egyptian silver marks.
Victorian carved celluloid cross c1900
Price: £45
This is a very unusual pendant comprising a very intricate carving in celluloid plastic. This type of plastic was also called Ivorine as it was meant to simulate ivory. This was most likely cast and then hand finished. It has its original loop.
1001 Arabian Nights Brooch c1930
Price: £20
This is a fun brooch that depicts a rather evil looking sorcerer. He has glass eyes and there is a large glass stone in his turban. The brooch is made from brass and would have had colourful enamel painting in its time. It also appears that originally there might have been drops from the ears.
Siam silver cuff bracelet c1950
Price: £85
This is quite a rare cuff bracelet comprising heavy silver with worked silver spheres. It is marked 'Siam' 'Sterling', the typical mark for this type of silver, which is 925 grade. It is marked Siam as this was the name of Thailand until 1939 but the mark on jewellery continued until the 1970s and the pieces became quite popular souvenirs during the Korean and Vietnam wars. This specific design is found elsewhere but it is the Niello work pieces with dancers etc that are most associated with the tourist trade.
Taxco abalone cross over bangle c 1960
Price: £65
This is a very elegant bangle bracelet in a crossover design. It has a hinged opening so it is free sized. It is set with abalone stones and marked TL-105 950 Mexico.
Taxco Incised Silverwork Cuff Bracelet c1940
Price: £250
This is an incredible and massive cuff bracelet in a typical Mexican design of fish in water. It is very heavy and makes a real statement. It is signed Sterling Ranch Allegre 18, Taxco 925 A.L. and dates to the mid C20th.
Native American Zuni inlay bracelet c1980
Price: £300
This is an incredible bracelet comprising stations of onyx, mother of pearl, turquoise and coral set in the form of a wishbone, a design that is favoured by the Zuni silversmiths of New Mexico who excel at this type of inlay work. It is signed 'PD' 'Sterling Handmade' and dates to the late twentieth century. 'PD' stands for palladium which implies silver with palladium or silver coated with palladium which was used as lower cost alternative to platinum or rhodium plating.
Pair of amethyst cluster earrings, c1980
Price: £65
This a quite indricate paid of earrings bezel set with 11 amethyst stones. The stones are great quality with lots of sparkle. They are post and butterfly and are marked 925. They are most likely Indian in origin.
Burgundy Leather Jewellery Box with Bramah Lock, early C20th
Price: £95
This is a fine quality jewellery box covered in red burgundy leather. The rectangular base is fitted with a shallow flush lid bevelled at the front and back and attached by brass lever hinges. The front of the base has a lock marked ‘Bramah’ with the original key and the lid an inset brass handle, the surface of which would have been suitable for the engraving of the owner’s initials. Inside are two removable trays, the top one with compartments for jewellery and a circular holder for a watch. The linings of the box and trays are in burgundy leather and velvet. There are many features here of a ‘deluxe’ item, in particular the ‘Bramah’ lock, known for its high security, and the lever hinges. The box most likely dates to the early 1900s and would clearly have been sold by a purveyor of ‘luxury’ items for a wealthy clientele. It retains, of course, its functionality today.
Burgundy Leather Jewellery Box with Bramah Lock, early C20th
Price: £95
This is a fine quality jewellery box covered in red burgundy leather. The rectangular base is fitted with a shallow flush lid bevelled at the front and back and attached by brass lever hinges. The front of the base has a lock marked ‘Bramah’ with the original key and the lid an inset brass handle, the surface of which would have been suitable for the engraving of the owner’s initials. Inside are two removable trays, the top one with compartments for jewellery and a circular holder for a watch. The linings of the box and trays are in burgundy leather and velvet. There are many features here of a ‘deluxe’ item, in particular the ‘Bramah’ lock, known for its high security, and the lever hinges. The box most likely dates to the early 1900s and would clearly have been sold by a purveyor of ‘luxury’ items for a wealthy clientele. It retains, of course, its functionality today.
Green Leather Jewellery Box with Bramah Lock, early C20th
Price: £55
This is a fine quality jewellery box covered in green leather with a graining effect. The rectangular base is fitted with a shallow flush lid and attached by brass lever hinges. The front of the base has a lock marked ‘Bramah’ (lacking its original key) and the lid a leather strap handle with fine stitching. Inside are two removable trays, the top one with compartments for jewellery, and the bottom of the box is divided into two compartments. The linings of the box and trays are in green leather and velvet with moiré silk to the inside of the lid. As with the previous lot, there are many features here of a ‘deluxe’ item, in particular the ‘Bramah’ lock, known for its high security, and the lever hinges. This box perhaps dates to a little later than the previous one, more to the 1930s but is no less of a ‘luxury’ item which equally well retains its functionality today.
Green Leather Jewellery Box with Bramah Lock, early C20th
Price: £55
This is a fine quality jewellery box covered in green leather with a graining effect. The rectangular base is fitted with a shallow flush lid and attached by brass lever hinges. The front of the base has a lock marked ‘Bramah’ (lacking its original key) and the lid a leather strap handle with fine stitching. Inside are two removable trays, the top one with compartments for jewellery, and the bottom of the box is divided into two compartments. The linings of the box and trays are in green leather and velvet with moiré silk to the inside of the lid. As with the previous lot, there are many features here of a ‘deluxe’ item, in particular the ‘Bramah’ lock, known for its high security, and the lever hinges. This box perhaps dates to a little later than the previous one, more to the 1930s but is no less of a ‘luxury’ item which equally well retains its functionality today.
Very fine Indian silver repousse plaque Necklace, c1970
Price: £55
This is a necklace comprising a large pendant of elongated hexagonal shape with a traditional Indian repousse floral design. It has a double bale each with a rosette and is marked '925'. It is combined with a long snake chain which is later.
Very fine Indian silver repousse plaque Necklace, c1970
Price: £85
This is a necklace comprising a large pendant of elongated hexagonal shape with a traditional Indian repousse floral design. It has a double bale each with a rosette and is marked '925'. It is combined with a long snake chain which is later.
Egyptian Nefertiti and Talisman necklace on long chain c1970
Price: £95
This is a group of two large Egyptian pendants on a long box chain. The pendants are a plaque or talisman that has Hieroglyphs the other is the head of Nefertiti. These go perfectly together and look great on the long chain. Both pendants have Egyptian silver hallmarks.
Egyptian Revival souvenir bracelet c1900
Price: £95
This is very beautiful bracelet comprising very detailed cast brass station depicting Egyptian iconography. This is most likely from the Paris Worlds Fair in 1900 that showcased Egyptian modernity, antiquities, and culture. There are six stations with a wonderful Tutankhamun charm at the closure.
Early Taxco brooch with coral and turquoise c1950
Price: £450
This a very rare brooch set with amethyst, coral and turquoise stones. It is in a very recognisable Taxco design with the scrollwork and drops. It has a bale and can be worn as a pendant. It is marked Mexico 925 TJ-46.
Art Deco Taxco bracelet c1940
Price: £100
This is a rare bracelet that is in a distinctive curved Art Deco design. It is a hinged bracelet that opens at the top. It is set with obsidian. It is marked Taxco MCC 950 Mexico TC-60
Silver metal Perfume Bottle Necklace, probably Indian early C20th
Price: £55
A silver metal perfume bottle and attached stopper, the body spherical with a short cylindrical neck, the whole elaborately cast with bead work below and repeating fleur de lis above underneath repeating raised bosses, the neck with rope twist work and the stopper with beading. The stopper is attached by a short chain and the bottle itself has two lugs which attach it to the necklace chain. Many of the motifs here suggest Indian work, probably from the 1920s and made for the local market.
Silver metal Perfume Bottle Necklace, probably Indian early C20th
Price: £55
A silver metal perfume bottle and attached stopper, the body spherical with a short cylindrical neck, the whole elaborately cast with bead work below and repeating fleur de lis above underneath repeating raised bosses, the neck with rope twist work and the stopper with beading. The stopper is attached by a short chain and the bottle itself has two lugs which attach it to the necklace chain. Many of the motifs here suggest Indian work, probably from the 1920s and made for the local market.
North American Turquoise pendant necklace c1990
Price: £150
This is a very striking necklace comprising a large pendant with a modernist design set with North American turquoise, most likely from the Kingman mine. The pendant is marked 925 and has been later paired with a complementary and heavy Balinese chain which is unmarked.
Labradorite statement necklace c2000
Price: £110
This is a stunning necklace that has a very contemporary design. It has a large pear shaped labradorite stone that is splite between luminous blue and white. It is set in a heavy silver setting that has a small accent cabachon also in labradorite. This is then joined with stations that create a choker. It is marked 925 with full English hallmarks.
Taxco Necklace and Bracelet set with obsidian stones c1960
Price: £150
This is a very elegant Taxco set of a necklace and matching bracelet both comprising silver stations in a leaf form set with obsidian stones. The necklace sits beautifully on the neckline and makes a real statement. Both pieces have a typical Taxco box clasp and are marked 'Mexico 950' 'TB-80' to indicate the silver quality and the maker.
Art Deco brooch with large zircon stone c1930
Price: £175
This is a silver bar brooch set with European cut diamonds and a large blue zircon. It is set in an elegant Art Deco design that shows off the central stone. It is unmarked.
Taxco rose station necklace c1940
Price: £150
This is a beautiful necklace comprising stations of very finely modelled roses alternating with bar links that encircle the whole necklace and are joined with a hook clasp. It is marked 'B-27' (for the maker) and ' 925' and dates to the mid twentieth century.
Heavy silver necklace with heart shaped links c1970
Price: £145
This is a fun necklace comprising 15 stylised heart links. It has box clasp that is marked SU 925. It appears to be Italian in origin. Would be choker length for most women.
Aesthetic Movement silver brooch and earrings c1890
Price: £125
This is a very rare set of a silver brooch and earrings that reflect Aesthetic Movement design, the stylistic revolution of the late 19th century which promoted decorative designs over more utilitarian or mass produced objects. One of the key elements was the influence of Japan which can be seen very clearly in the decoration of this set with its oriental inspired central design of birds and flowers.
The earrings have post and butterfly fittings and the pieces are not marked.
Taxco bracelet with abalone panels c1950
Price: £85
This is an older Taxco bracelet comprising joined silver panels set with abalone stones. The stones are shaped into ovals or squares designed as Aztec masks. It is marked Hecho en Mexico, Taxco. It is not marked but is 950 silver and dates to the mid C20th.
Modernist Silver White Anthurium Brooch, Mexico, 1970s
Price: £25
This is a very unusual brooch that has two white anthurium flowers and gilt stamens. It is marked 'Made in Mexico'.
Modernist Silver White Anthurium Brooch, Mexico, 1970s
Price: £25
This is a very unusual brooch that has two white anthurium flowers and gilt stamens. It is marked 'Made in Mexico'.
Taxco Silver and Copper Bracelet, c1940
Price: £55
This is a striking bracelet comprising Mexican or Mayan iconographic designs in silver and copper work surrounded by crushed turquoise, lapis and other stones and with Greek Key pattern borders. It is marked 'Hecho en Mexico', '925', and with an Eagle stamp '3' and an illegible maker's mark.
Art Nouveau William Comyns silver buckle, 1901
Price: £250
This is a piece of true Art Nouvea design. It is a ladies silver buckle by silver maker William Comyns. It bears the hallmarks for Comyns, London 1901. There is also a design patent number Rd No 564 383.
William Comyns founded the company in 1858. He initially operated from the former premises of silversmith Robert Tagg at 2 Carlisle Street, Soho, London, where he registered his first maker’s mark (W.C in a four-tipped oval) in 1859. Comyns’ silverware was retailed by some of the world’s most prestigious firms, including Tiffany & Co., The Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Company, and leading London retailers such as Henry Lewis and Howell & James.
Taxco bracelet with rivet details c1980
Price: £85
This is an outstanding bracelet that feature heavy stations of silver set with brass rivet decoration. It boasts a typical box clasp that is also set with this rivet detail. This motif is quite rare. It is marked TM-79 Mexico 925
Taxco Fish Brooch c1940
Price: £25
This is very delicate small silver brooch that depicts a charming and cheerful fish. It has a textured surface and the eyelashes are detailed. It is marked with a maker's monogram 'JG' or possibly 'GG' and in addition there is an "Eagle" mark '3' below the words 'Heche en Mexico', indicating a dating to the 1940s.
Taxco leaf shape brooch set with Abalone, c1950
Price: £45
This is a very lovely silver brooch that is leaf, or just possibly feather, shape, the veining set with abalone. It is has an oval mark 'RLC' surrounded by 'Taxco Mexico 925' and dates to the 1950s
Classic Taxco cuff bracelet, c1980
Price: £75
This is a striking bracelet in a typical Taxco diamond design. It is a cuff shape so brilliant for most wrists and easy to wear. It is marked Mexico TF-15 925. This mark indicates the Taxco silversmith.
Taxco silver elephant cuff bracelet c1970
Price: £85
This is an incredibly fine bracelet that features mother elephants and their babies. It is 3 dimensional with so much detail. Although it does not bear any makers mark it is most likely from the Taxco region due to the quality of the silver and the type of work. It is marked 925. There are times when due to the silver work there is no room for a makers mark so they leave it off. This seems to be the case here.
Native American Zuni silver cuff bracelet c1970
Price: £125
This is a stunning bracelet made by Zuni silversmiths in the area of New Mexico. It comprises a large mosaic of turquoise, mother of pearl and coral that is indicative of Zuni design and work. This mosaic is set into a silver halo of a flower and leaves, also a typical design. It is marked Sterling 925
Pair of Navajo Kingman turquiose earrings, signed, 1970s
Price: £65
This pair of earrings boasts 10 large cabachons of Kingman turquoise. The Kingman mine located in Arizona, is the last commercial turquoise mine in the US. It is known for its intense colour and unique matrix. These earring where produced by a Navajo silver maker. They are signed MJ which indicates the specific workshop. Marked Sterling for 925 silver.
Pietra Dura jasper moth brooch c1920
Price: £175
This is a very rare pietra dura brooch that features inlay jasper in the shape of a moth. There are thee types of jasper finished off with malachite around the edge of the wings. There are also glass beads inset to mimick that markings. It is set in typical rolled gold.
Taxco suite of necklace and earrings, malachite and onyx stations, 1990s
Price: £250
This is a quite rare suite of necklace and earrings that come from the Taxco region of Mexico. Both comprise stations of malachite and onyx that go all the way around each piece. The stations are each individually hinged which gives these pieces a fluidity and quality that only comes from the Taxco workshops. Both have the typical box clasp and are marked 'TN-57' 'Mexico' '925'. The TN number indicates the workshop although there is no definitive list regarding the numbers attached and an exact provenance cannot be determined.
Taxco silver bangle with onyx and sodalite mosaic decoration, 1990s
Price: £75
This is a beautiful bangle comprising a very heavy and thick band of silver set with sodalite and onyx in an inlay mosaic design. It has a typical push closure and is marked 'TS-98' '925' 'Mexico'. The TS letters stand for the specific workshop in the Taxco region but here is no definitive list of the numbers attached, so an exact provenance is difficult to determine.
Zuni suite of necklace and earrings, New Mexico, 1990s
Price: £95
This is a suite of earrings and necklace by the Zuni silversmiths of New Mexico. They are known for their detailed mosaic work incorporating many different types of stone. Here we have mosaics on both the earrings and the pendant with turquoise, lapis, onyx and coral stones. There are also dangling feathers attached which is again typical of Zuni design. The chain is in a basket weave pattern and marked' 925'.
Modernist Taxco brooch 1980s
Price: £45
This is a lovely and substantial brooch that is fashioned in a stylised bow design. It could also be worn as a pendant. It is marked 'TC-132' 'Mexico' ' 925'. The TC letters stand for the specific workshop in the Taxco region but here is no definitive list of the numbers attached, so an exact provenance is difficult to determine.
Navajo suite of Necklace and Earrings set with sleeping beauty turquoise, 1990s
Price: £250
This is a beautiful and high quality suite of a silver necklace and matching earrings set with ‘Sleeping Beauty’ turquoise. The necklace has three linked stations employing the overlay technique of building up different layers on the design, which represents flying eagles against a background of stylised clouds. Both the necklace and earrings are fitted with bright blue turquoise bead drops, the purity and colour of the stone indicating a provenance from the ‘Sleeping Beauty’ mine, located in Globe, Arizona, which was the only source for turquoise of this type and closed in 2012 enhancing the rarity of the stone today. For many years it was extremely popular among Native American artists, particularly from the Zuni Pueblo region.
The Navajo are a Native American people of the Southwestern United States with the largest reservation in the country, mainly concentrated in Arizona and New Mexico. Their silverwork, which they began to produce in the late C19th, came to enjoy great popularity and often employed the use of turquoise. This matching suite is an excellent example of their work. The necklace is marked ‘Sterling’ for 925 silver and the same material would have been used throughout, providing a perfect backdrop to the ‘sleeping beauties’.
Outstanding Egyptian Revival necklace c1960
Price: £125
This is a very unusual necklace that features a large central pendant that depicts a beautiful design of Egyptian iconography. This includes cobras, ankh symbols, Horus the bird god and Ramses II. It is all done in bright gold with enamel work. This is on its original rope style chain fashioned to allow the pendant sit on the upper chest. It is probably of American manufacture.
Large faux coral Bakelite brooch, British c1940
Price: £45
A fine quality large floral brooch made from faux coral Bakelite with a bar pin to the reverse, carefully carved to represent the rose petals in fine detail. Dating from the 1940s this piece has remarkably survived in perfect condition making it the ideal statement fashion accessory.
Art Deco brooch with Shibayama style mother of pearl plaque c1920
Price: £225
This is a very rare silver brooch comprising a large oval onyx stone set with a very detailed and fine carved mother of pearl plaque. This is either a nod to Japanese shibayama designs or it was indeed imported from Japan and set into the brooch. The floral pattern shimmers and dances with the light and there is so much detail. It is a real work of art. It is set wth marcasite stones around the edge. It is marked illegibly but it is continental. Most likely French or Belgian.
Czech glass faux turquoise brooch c1930
Price: £65
This is a very rare brooch comprising a central faux turquoise glass stone surrounded by smaller beadwork set into white metal. This is a typical Czech glass design for makers such as the Neiger Brothers.
Czech glass faux turquoise brooch c1930
Price: £65
This is a very rare brooch comprising a central faux turquoise glass stone surrounded by smaller beadwork set into white metal. This is a typical Czech glass design for makers such as the Neiger Brothers.
Bead necklace with jade carnelian and silver beads c1990
Price: £50
This is a very beautiful necklace comprising graduating beads that are yellow jade, bi colour jade and carnelian. There is a long drop comprising four strands with beads suspended on it to give it a many layered effect. The origin of this necklace is uncertain. it is super quality and is most certainly made by a jewellery designer. Marked 925.
Two watch fobs 1912 and 1923
Price: £35
This is a group of two gentleman's watch fobs. One says "Senior Rounder 1912" and the other "WLOC 1923". These would have been very meaningful to the person who had it on their watch chain. Unfortunately these details have been lost over time. Rounder was a game that resembled baseball so persumably that person played Rounder. These are very fine silver and are a piec ef ephemera that can be worn as a pendant.
Gentlemans waistcoat pin set with four watch fobs 1930s
Price: £150
This is a bespoke waiscoat pin with four hanging watch fobs. The owner was someone called R.S. Hollands as they all bear this name. They all have dates 1927, 1936 x 2 and 1934. There are different places on them and two have the designation of "Senior Rounder" and S.C.A.B.A. One also has the name Boosey and Co a company that manufactued brass instruments. Rounders is a game much like baseball. Mr Hollands definetly wanted to show these off. :) Thie is a piece of history that can be worn as a brooch, what could be better for a vintage collector?
Very fine Moroccan engraved silver bracelet c1930
Price: £95
This a silver bracelet comprising very finely engraved stations that are connected as links. These have been set with silver gilt camels and elephants together wilh Arabic letters. It has the usual barrel type clasp that is very secure. There are illegible hallmarks.
Deaking & Francis silver bangle, Birmingham 1955
Price: £125
This is a stunning wide bangle bracelet by well known silversmiths Deaking & Francis. It is very finely engraved with typica leave and scrollwork. It is hinged and has a safety chain. It is marked for Birmingham 1955 and it also says WAX FILLED. This is to indicate that the piece is not solid and is weighted with wax.
LOT 31
Arts and Crafts bar brooch with turquoise and coque de perle c1910
Estimate: £30 – 40
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Art Deco Catalin Bakelite necklace, American c1930
Price: £125
This is a fabulous necklace comprising very large mustard coloured catalin beads in tubular, ovoid and globular shapes. Catalin is a form of plastic that is comtemporary with Bakelite. They are very similar as they are both composed of phenol and formeldehyde. The main difference is that Catalin was poured a poured liquid and Bakelite was moulded from a granular powder. Catalin is a brand name developed and trademarked in 1927 by the American Catalin Corporation of New York City, when the patent on Bakelite expired that year. It was used in a variety of applications, including costume jewellery, until the end of the second world war when it became too expensive, as every piece had to be individually cast and polished. Catalin jewellery is often incorrectly referred to as bakelite but has a distinction all of its own and this necklace is prime example of the fashion designs produced in the 1930s.
Monumental Mille Fiore glass bead necklace c1970
Price: £175
This is a very large long necklace comprising different types of Mille Fiore Venetian glass beads. The largest beads measure 31 mm these are the joins for a double strand of round and tubular beads on the higher part with barrel shaped beads on the lower part of the necklace. For vintage jewellery collectors this is one in a million. And for fashionistas this would go with everything. :)
Art Deco opaline glass necklace 1930s
Price: £125
This is a stunning strand of large tear drop opaline glass beads strung with conical silver beads. Opaline glass has been around since the 19th century and can be seen in jewellery from this time. These beads are of exceptional quality and appear to glow in both low light and daylight. There are flashes of pink and yellow that make these beads dance like they are lit from within. They are better quality than most authentic opals of this type. Has been fitted with a modern extender.
Faceted Opalite statement necklace c1970
Price: £95
This is a dazzling necklace comrising Opalite beads. These are facetted pear shaped beads as well as round beads. The luminosity within these stones are incredible they appear to be glowing in both sun light and indoor light.
Opalite is a type of synthetic glass often mistaken for a gemstone due to its alluring translucence and the play of colors similar to those seen in opals. Unlike natural gemstones, opalite is man-made, primarily from dolomite and metal to create its distinctive shimmering and milky appearance. It typically exhibits a soft, opalescent sheen with a blue or orange glow when light passes through it, making it popular in jewelry and decorative objects.(geologyscience.com)
Fun celluloid elephant motif earrings 1960s
Price: £25
This is a great pair of earrings made from Ivorine or celluloid, It has three concentric circles with small elephants in the centre. The are screw back and do not appear to be silver. These are very light and easy to wear for long periods despite being quite a statement.
Cornucopia design suite of necklace and earrings 1990s
Price: £45
This is an incredible set of necklace and earrings. The necklace has a cornucopia with one side set with diamantes and the other side is a twisting floral design set with diamantes and faux sapphires. It is made of gild metal with a polychroming effect in soft greens and peachy tones. The earrings mirror this design and are just as striking as the necklace. The origin of this set is uncertain; it could perhaps be American but it will certainly attract attention!
Cold painted brass necklace 1920s
Price: £50
This is a lovely and delicate necklace comprising stations of autumn maple leaves that cold painting in green and red to represent the change of the seasons. It has a bead chain and a hook clasp. Cold painting on metal refers to an enamel paint being applied to the cold metai i.e. not fired. The metal is gilt brass.
Art Nouveau style Lily bouquet brooch c1950
Price: £65
This is a large brooch with a lily spray design. It is marked 'silver' and there is a makers mark. The origin of this piece isn't clear.
Czech Egyptian Revival bracelet 1930s
Price: £30
This is a simple and elegant bracelet comprising stations of Egyptian motif panels and four station set with turquoise glass.
Fun 1970s button bangle
Price: £25
This is a super bangle comprising buttons encased in lucite. it has a rather homemade quality so it might have been made from a kit. This just adds to the vintage look and makes it even more fun! :)
Taxco Noahs Ark Earrings c1980
Price: £45
This is a pair of earrings that are very finely modelled. They depict Noah's Ark showing many of the animals. There are elephants, giraffes and lions on the deck with other animals looking out the portholes. There are even dolphins in the water! Although this theme can be found elsewhere in jewellery, these are a masterclass in design that only the Taxco silversmiths can deliver. They are both marked 'MEXICO' '925' and date to the 1980s.
Native American turquoise bead necklace with original clasp c1960
Price: £350
This is a very rare necklace comprising perfectly graduated turquoise discs. The stones represent the many different shades of turquoise that are found in and around Arizona and New Mexico. Each bead is separated by a very small amber bead, used because amber is soft and will not scratch the turquoise. The necklace ends with a matching clasp set with a turquoise stone that perfectly complements it. It has been restrung in recent times using very strong steel wire giving it durability for many years to come.
Navajo turquoise ring c1960
Price: £125
This is a large ring with a beautiful and organically shaped turquoise stone set in a typical Navajo silver design. It is signed with a silversmith's mark as well as others but some elements have worn away over the years. The turquoise is from the Kingman mine in Arizona. Originally made for a man it is, of course, 'unisex' now and will grace the hand of whoever chooses to wear it!
North American turquoise ring c1990
Price: £75
This is lovely ring with a good size cabachon turquoise stone set it silver. It appears to be North American turquoise but it could possibly be from the central Chinese province of Hubei, another source of high quality turquoise stones. Unmarked, it has a modern design with a halo effect and the bead work detail is typical of North American work.
Taxco torque statement necklace and bracelet, Daniela, 1980s
Price: £250
This is a fabulous set of necklace and cuff bracelet comprising two pieces of silver formed in a wave shape. One side is polished silver and the other side is oxidized silver. It is then set with a polished silver sphere that adds to the modern space age design. It is signed "Taxco Daniela 950" and "TD-09 Mexico 950". Daniela is the designer and TD-09 would be the Taxco registration.
Art Deco emerald cut paste stone ring c1920
Price: £55
This is a very elegant ring made up of silver set with marcasite stones with a large octogan cut purple paste stone. It is unmarked.
Long baltic amber bead necklace c1980
Price: £65
This is excellent quality amber necklace. Each bead is carved in a triangular shape to complement the geometric pendant. This beads are graduated which adds to the elegance of this long necklace. There are a few types of amber here honey, cognac and egg yolk.
Opera length mille fiore station necklace and earrings c1950 and later
Price: £45
This is a striking and very long necklace comprising stations of mille fiore glass beads and red and black glass beads with paste stones in between. It is very elegant and detailed. It is meant to wrap around the neck and then hang down to the waist although it could be also wrapped around the neck a few times. It is paired with complementary earrings that have black glass and paste stones. The necklace is not silver and most likely would have had gilding in its time. The earrings still have a gold tone. The necklace dates to the 1950s and the earrings are later, most likely 1970s.
Perfume Bottle Brooch, probably French mid C20th
Price: £55
A perfume bottle brooch, the bottle and stopper suspended from a white metal clasp with a ‘pull’ fastening pin and beading at the edge, the glass heart shape body encased in silver metal filigree work, the face with a beaded border surrounding blue metal trellis work with studded rosettes, the reverse with a similar border surrounding a clear glass panel, the white metal cover with a red bead at the top and similarly decorated with a glass wand attached and a screw fitting matching the top of the bottle. There are no ready parallels for the decoration here but the work is most likely continental and probably French with a dating to the mid twentieth century.
Tibetan amulet necklace featuring Buddhist deity c1900
Price: £25
This is very interesting necklace that comprises a very large amulet or talisman in a flower shape, which is built up in steps and features a figure holding a sword. It is made from brass, that would have had bright gilding in its time. It is mounted with garnets and enamel work. There are some stones that appear to be turquoise and coral although these might be enamel. There is also an embossed lotus flower on the back.
The chain on this necklace is quite short for it to fit over a modern head so it would probably need a clasp in addition.
Silver and marcasite statement brooch, 1956
Price: £125
This is a real showstopper of a brooch. It is very large in a floral spray and ribbon design. It has numerous silver marks including an English import mark from 1956. The other marks indicate that it is most likely continental possibly Belgian or Swiss.
What stands out with this brooch is the quality of the workmanship. It is encrusted with hundreds of marcasite stones that are all prong set. There is not one missing stone. We get so used the costume versions of a brooch like this; it is such a pleasure to see an original.
Edwardian silver and turquoise brooch c1910
Price: £55
This a very unusual brooch created from silver set with turquoise stones. It is in a crown shape and has nine large stones and numerous smaller stones. It is continental with the turquoise being most likely from the Middle East. It is unmarked and comes in its original box.
Etruscan style garnet cross earrings c1910
Price: £65
These are a lovely and delicate pair of earrings comprising square cut stones surrounding a large cabachon. They are marked illegibly. Most likely Italian in origin.
Chinese cloisonné hinged Bangle, C20th
Price: £45
A Chinese cloisonné bangle of typical circular form when closed, hinged to allow it to open and revealing the clasp opposite, the decoration in the cloisonné technique of polychrome glass derived enamels set in wire outlines (the so called ‘cloisons’ from the French word), the brick red ground set with stylised floral plum blossom sprays in enamels and clouds in a wire design. The style of work here suggests an early twentieth century dating and the hinged clasp was doubtless intended to assist the wearer as it could still do today.
Lapis and Lemon quartz torque necklace, modern
Price: £95
This is a very sleek necklace with a geometric pendant on a torque necklace. The pendant has a half moon shaped Lapis Lazuli stone and a fancy cut five sided lemon quartz stone. This is a very elegant and balanced piece. Both pendant and necklace are marked 925.