Notable Hermès Bags and Striking Gemstone Designs Available From the Ann & Gordon Getty Jewelry and Handbags Collection

In 1984, British actress Jane Birkin was on a flight from Paris to London. Coincidentally, she was seated next to Jean-Louis Dumas, Executive Chairman of Hermès. When the contents spilled from her bag in the overhead compartment, she complained of its inadequacy. Dumas instantly sketched a rectangular roomy hold-all with a glossy flap, saddle stitching and space for baby bottles. That’s how the famous Birkin bag was born. A shiny black and orange H Niloticus crocodile Birkin 30 with ruthenium hardware is a key highlight of the upcoming auction at Christie’s. This supple-yet-textured bag is one of the limited pieces produced by Hermès annually. The 30 cm (w) by 22 cm (h) by 15 cm (d) Birkin comes with a dustbag. Another noteworthy Hermès bag is a vert anis ostrich sellier Kelly 32 with gold hardware. Comprising a shoulder strap, the bag is designed with clean, structured lines. 

A pair of white gold aquamarine earrings from circa 1955 leads the jewelry listings. The tops are fashioned with calibré and pear-shaped aquamarines, round and baguette-cut diamonds, and round and cabochon-cut sapphires. To view the complete catalog and register to bid online, visit Christie’s.