A sapphire approaches the million mark!

Exceptional stones and pearls, prestigious origins and refined design : a winning cocktail for jewelry !

The sale was proof that Paris remains a jewelry stronghold, and that Drouot confirms its power of attraction, as the market continues to respond to first-rate pieces. Results on a par with the most famous jewelry places were pronounced for three sets. From India to the United States, from Qatar to Europe, connoisseurs from all over the world and the most important dealers were present, some even making the trip to Paris. In the auction room, bidders continued to raise their hands to €200 ,000 against some fifteen telephones. Acknowledging the exceptional quality of a sapphire, weighing in at a hefty 14.89 ct and with the most desirable provenance – Kashmir (see Gazette no. 42), this cosmopolitan clientele pushed an antique-cut cabochon cushion stone (16.47 x 11.46 x 8.23 mm) up to €925 ,200 .Fashioned in the second half of the19th century, this transformation corsage front was offered at its highest price of €70 ,000 , but finally fetched €346 ,950 . It was probably made by a very great jeweler – probably French – so refined and accomplished is its design, from the rosehip flower on the top brooch to the three bell-shaped flowers on the second brooch. The high quality of the diamonds – round, cushion or old-cut pear – adds to the splendor of this imposing work, while preserving its typical poetry of the period, as does the beauty of its sea pearls – of rare perfection. A Colombian emerald enabled a large platinum barrette brooch, made around 1925 and preserved in a Gustave Sandoz case, to triple its high estimate to €221 ,020 . Extraordinarily crystallized and weighing a substantial 15.65 ct, it boasts a very rare antique cut : round with degrees. The gem is backed by quadrangular diamonds, and each end of the jewel is set with a round emerald.