Saffronart’s Fine Jewels and Silver Auction: A Showcase of Exquisite Indian Craftsmanship
Saffronart’s Online Fine Jewels and Silver Auction came to a close on April 21, 2023, presenting an array of captivating jewellery pieces that showcased both conventional and modern styles, along with remarkable silverware that emphasized the distinct Indian artistry.
A Triumph for Saffronart and Indian Jewellery
Commenting on the auction, Saffronart President and Co-Founder Minal Vazirani said, “We are delighted to see that collectors continue to harbour a keen interest in historic pieces such as a rare and iconic, Ruby, Pearl and Diamond bracelet by Cartier sold in this auction. Saffronart is dedicated to expanding the market for vintage and contemporary jewellery through carefully curated auctions, initiatives, and dialogues on India’s rich jewelled legacy. We look forward to promoting a newer sense of appreciation for the art of jewellery collecting, while also preserving cultural heritage.”
Top Lots: A Cartier Bracelet with a Royal History
The most notable item in the sale was a significant collector’s piece, representing the rich history of collaborations between Indian royalty and global designers – an Art Deco Ruby, Pearl, and Diamond Bracelet by Cartier, which sold for Rs. 38.04 lakhs ($46,390), more than doubling its higher estimate of $12,200 – $18,295. The Patiala royal family commissioned Cartier to craft this stunning bracelet, which was later gifted to Madhu Nandini (granddaughter of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh) on her 70th birthday by her mother, Rajmata Yadunandan Kumari.
Emerald and Diamond Ring and Contemporary ‘Palm Tree’ Diamond Earrings
Additional prominent lots featured an Emerald and Diamond Ring that fetched Rs. 22.8 lakhs ($27,805), exceeding its lower estimate of $24,395.
An eye-catching modern creation, a pair of ‘Palm Tree’ Diamond Earrings, was sold for Rs. 14.4 lakhs ($17,561), while another pair of Diamond Earrings fetched Rs. 10.2 lakhs ($12,439), significantly surpassing its lower estimate. These asymmetrical earrings, inspired by palm trees, showcase a series of marquise-cut diamonds in prong settings, connected to a tapered gold rod that gradually decreases in size from top to bottom, culminating in a flexible gold chain. The diamonds are also colour-graded from colourless on the top and moving into yellow colours towards the terminal, where the more colourless diamonds are set in rose gold and the diamonds with a more yellow hue are mounted in yellow gold.
Silverware: A Fusion of Influences and Native Decorations
The auction also featured remarkable silverware that displayed a masterful blend of various inspirations and indigenous embellishments while still maintaining a distinctly Indian character.
Notable Silver Lots: Oomersi Mawji Salt Shakers and More
Thanks to their distinctive designs, the silver lots in the auction achieved impressive results, with highlights including a Silver Set of Two Salt Shakers by Oomersi Mawji, which sold for Rs. 2.04 lakhs ($2,488), over four times its higher estimate; a Silver Water Pot, which fetched Rs. 3.84 lakhs ($4,683), more than double its lower estimate; and a Silver Planter, which garnered Rs. 3.6 lakhs ($4,390), exceeding its higher estimate by more than twice.
A unique Kutch silver water pot decorated with intricate foliate chasings and a decorated twist-open lid with handle and a cup, with similar ornamentation, that fits inside the water pot.
Conclusion: A Successful Showcase of Indian Craftsmanship
Saffronart’s Fine Jewels and Silver Auction successfully displayed the beauty and intricacy of Indian craftsmanship, with collectors showing a strong interest in both traditional and contemporary designs. The auction results serve as a testament to the growing market for Indian jewellery and silverware, and Saffronart’s dedication to preserving India’s rich jewelled legacy.