Tiaras and brooches are seeing a resurgence in popularity in the international jewellery auctions market due to a growing appreciation for precious heirlooms with exquisite designs, materials and provenance. If a jewel has a distinct emotional story or ownership history, it can attract even greater attention from connoisseur collectors

 

Sotheby’s, Diamond Tiara, late 19th Century, Christie’s, Ruby and Diamond ear pendants, mid-20th Century, Christie’s, a Victorian Diamond Star Parure

Jewellery from certain time periods is more likely to be snapped up than from others. Art Deco items from the 1920s and 1930s saw exceptional demand at the auction sales, as collectors are enthralled by their unique, often geometrical designs which recall a glamorous era. Another popular era for antique jewellery is the Belle Époque, a period of optimism, peace and prosperity in the decades leading up to the First World War.

Sotheby’s, Farnese Blue, Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels, Christie’s

In the jewellery auctions market, signed items are more collectable than unbranded pieces, collectors say, with certain houses greatly sought after, such as Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Bulgari. Collectors who invest in fine jewellery heirlooms are very savvy, and are constantly on the lookout for unusual pieces. And yet the auctions market for collectable jewellery is far from perfect. Sometimes highly appealing pieces will fail to attract a buyer, and occasionally a collector will pick up a bargain if there is no competition for an item, and no reserve price.

Christie’s, Sotheby’s, Daniela Mascetti, Sotheby’s, Krisitan Spofforth