Vintage Cufflinks with Tourmalines in Gold, c. 1970

Hardly any other gemstone boasts such a wide variety of colors as tourmaline. From deep blue to vibrant green, warm yellow, and rich pink, it displays an almost limitless spectrum of colors. It is no coincidence that the name “tourmaline” was derived from the Sinhalese word “thuramali,” which in Sri Lanka was used as a general term for the island’s colorful gemstones. It was not until the 18th century that larger quantities of these extraordinary stones made their way to Europe. The Dutch East India Company, which controlled trade with Ceylon at the time, brought them to the courts and treasuries of the continent. Two particularly beautiful specimens take center stage in this pair of elegant cufflinks. The rectangular tourmalines display a rich shade of green, and their clean lines define the entire design. Simple settings in warm yellow gold allow the gemstones to take center stage without detracting from them. Narrow bars connect the front faces to practical folding clasps, ensuring a high level of comfort. Created around 1970, these cufflinks combine the clean lines of their era with the timeless beauty of two extraordinary gemstones. They impress not through ostentatious luxury, but through the quality of their materials and the elegance of their understated design. We discovered this well-preserved pair in Cologne. It comes with a detailed appraisal from Vienna.

Estimate:$6,623.56

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