They say that diamonds are a girls’ best friend and they certainly prove to be a very popular choice at auction. Saying that, jewellery is currently a very strong market as when bought well it is always a good investment and of course a lovely sentiment to be able to pass down to future generations.
Our jewellery auctions are frequented by dealers, private collectors as well as individuals. These sales offer the chance to purchase good quality, classically designed jewellery – whether it be a pair of earrings, necklace, bracelet, a watch, an engagement ring or even a Christmas gift! Often at our jewellery views we have couples who come along and try rings for size before placing bids.
The modern diamond market began in 1866 with the discovery of diamonds in Kimberley, South Africa. This changed the perception of diamonds from rare gems to something available to those who could afford it; and these days at auction they can be purchased for a variety of prices. Naturally, diamond solitaires sell well and depending on size they can range from £50 to millions!
Necklaces and earrings are also really sought after. Again, diamonds feature heavily in the popularity stakes at the moment, with diamond studs and diamond and pearl being the preferred choice for earrings. In terms of necklaces, buyers are favouring fringe necklaces and chokers, that are great for dressing up an outfit.
Jewellery is often something that people hand down from generation to generation so although it is quite common to see the older, more vintage, pieces go under the hammer, the more valuable family heirlooms often stay in the family a little longer so when these pieces do make it to auction they are always very desirable. Brooches are not necessarily items that people immediately think about collecting – but hand-crafted brooches by an iconic designer or even cameo brooches will always hold their value and are often adapted to hair pieces, belts and scarf clips nowadays.
With current trends on sustainability of sourcing gemstones for jewellery, a few firms have set out to put lab-grown diamonds into modern pieces. These have the exactly the same properties as their natural cousins and are a fraction of their value. Although they look the same and have the same properties, of course they do not have the history and romance of an older piece.
At auction, antique pieces being set with natural diamonds and are carbon neutral! Therefore, not only are you buying a beautiful piece of antique jewellery but a sustainable item too.
To find out more, we hold free Valuation Days in our Newbury saleroom by appointment – so why not come along?
To book an appointment call 01635 585095 or email maill@specialauctionservices.com
