On the 17th and 18th of July, Hôtel des Ventes de Monte Carlo (HVMC) is hosting their largest jewelry auction to date, with four sales and over 500 lots. With a wide range of spectacular pieces from the top brands and different eras, the encompassing sale has something for everyone. We spoke to Chantal Beauvois, who has a 30-year career in jewelry auctions, about the top lots in the sale, what jewelry is trending at auction, and what to know before you bid.
Barnebys: Tell us a bit about HVMC's upcoming Jewelry auctions. What are some highlights? Chantal Beauvois: One of the highlights of this sale is the auctioning of "L'Eternity Drop," an extremely rare 76-carat Golconda diamond (color D, clarity IF, type Iia). This is one of the most significant diamonds ever presented in a public auction in Europe, originating from a prince's collection.
Additionally, we will be offering for sale the gold scepter of Charlotte of Mexico, which is one of the two known examples, the second being kept by the Hofburg Treasury Museum in Vienna, Austria: the Schatzkammer. We will also have significant lots attributed to Van Cleef & Arpels, Boucheron, and Rubel, among others.
Lastly, there will be jewelry pieces by renowned jewelers from private collections, as well as very rare Art Deco jewelry (Bulgari, Cartier, etc.).
What are the most popular pieces of jewelry at auction right now?
Stones of exceptionally high quality, particularly if the mountings are signed, are in great demand. Art Deco jewelry pieces produced by renowned jewelry houses are also in great demand. Among the most sought-after brands are Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Chaumet, and Mauboussin.
Additionally, collectors show a particular interest in brands such as René Boivin, Belperron, Lacloche, Janesich, and Sterlé.
What pieces of jewelry are the best investment to buy and why?
Rubies are considered a good investment because they are rare and beautiful. The mines in Burma are depleted, and there is a fortunate chance of finding conflict-free antique stones in auctions.
For example, in this auction, there are very rare pieces such as a 19th-century Cartier bracelet with Louis Cartier's hallmark. There is also a stunning brooch by René Boivin, mentioned in Françoise Cailles' book titled "René Boivin Joaillier." Additionally, there is a rare Art Deco Bulgari bracelet and an Art Deco Cartier bracelet. Finally, there is a high value placed on signed pieces, such as Fontana.
If you could pick a lot in the catalog, what is your favorite?
I would choose the opal pendant, because in my 30-year career, I have never seen such a beautiful one! It is a rare baroque-shaped black opal weighing 75.15 carats, surrounded by diamonds and signed by Spinosa. Do you have any advice for new collectors who want to start collecting jewelry?
My advice would be for them to purchase certified stones or antique jewelry from auction houses with the guidance of an expert. But above all, never forget that the most important factor is the personal connection and emotional appeal with the jewel.