Saffronart returns with its Online Auction of Fine Jewels on 24-25 October 2018, featuring 152 curated, collectible lots which trace the journey of Indian jewellery design From Tradition to Innovation. The lots on offer range from period jewellery with unparalleled craftsmanship to innovative designs which combine traditional and contemporary techniques.

A pair of Natural Pearl and Diamond Earrings leads the sale with an estimate of INR 90 lakhs – 1.2 crores (US$125,000 – 166,670). The rarity of the earrings, which feature two natural pearls approximately 20 mm in length, is underscored by the scarcity of natural saltwater pearls worldwide, which are no longer available from the region of Basra. A striking shield-cut Diamond Ringestimated at INR 65 – 95 lakhs (US$90,280 – 131,945), and a rose-cut Yellow Diamond Ringestimated at INR 40 – 60 lakhs (US$50,560 – 83,335) are among the top lots on offer.              

India’s long and rich history of creating jewellery and owning and wearing ornaments is closely tied with cultural traditions. Fine workmanship, mastered over centuries, is demonstrated inthe cover lot, which is a period Spinel and Diamond Necklace. Featuring traditional, high quality enamelling, this piece is estimated at INR 14 – 18 lakhs (US$19,445 – 25,000). A Period Colourless Sapphire Bajuband, mounted in gold with a trim ofemerald beads is another stunning traditional design, estimated at INR 5 – 8 lakhs (US$6,945 – 11,115).

This collection features a wide spectrum of jewels, ranging from highly unusual combinations of stones and colours to the introduction of sculptural forms that emphasise gems with a strategic and minimal use of metal. A pair of Ruby, Emerald, Pearl and Diamond Earrings (estimated at INR 6 – 9 lakhs) modifies the traditional chandbali design with its unconventional combination of stones, while a Pair ofCoral, Sapphire and Diamond Earrings (estimated at INR 7 – 9 lakhs), designed as a flower with diamond-set branches, has almost invisible metal holding the stones in place.

Other highlights in the auction include a Colombian Emerald and Diamond Ring (estimated at INR 15 – 18 lakhs) and a Pink Sapphire and Diamond Bracelet by GYAN(estimated at INR 9.75 – 12.75 lakhs). The auction also features travel-friendly jewellery which is easy to pack and carry, and appropriate for both casual and formal occasions. For men, assorted cufflinks and dress sets are also on offer.These pieces demonstrate fine technique at attractive prices.

Commenting on the auction, Saffronart President and Co-founder Minal Vazirani says, “This Auction of Fine Jewels is the result of a carefully curated search for the best of South Asian contemporary jewellery design with highlights from significant historic periods and important provenance. We are proud to present this auction after two years, following the highly successful Saffronart jewellery conference, The Timeless Legacy of Indian Jewels, in 2017. The upcoming auction highlights the best of Indian jewellery practices and innovations, and includes period pieces, rare and unusual gemstones, and designs featuring semi-precious and colour stones that weave Indian aesthetics into international trends.”

The auction will take place on saffronart.com, and will be preceded by viewings in New Delhi and Mumbai. All lots can be viewed on saffronart.com.