Ahead of the auction next week on Tuesday 11 and Wednesday 12 June, Sworders specialists Catriona Smith and Claire Hayter talk to us about their personal favourites from the sale.
05/06/2019 JEWELLERY & WATCHES, LUXURY ITEMS & DESIGNER CLOTHING
Ahead of the auction next week on Tuesday 11 and Wednesday 12 June, Sworders specialists Catriona Smith and Claire Hayter talk to us about their personal favourites from the sale.
Fine Jewellery – Catriona Smith
Lot 233 - A 9ct two colour gold blue zircon and cultured pearl fern spray brooch, by Alabaster and Wilson
Typical of their period, but last year I was lucky enough to be able to view the archive design ledgers for Alabaster and Wilson, and it is lovely to see their designs come to life.
Lot 233
Lot 334 - A white gold, Tahitian cultured pearl and diamond bow brooch
A very versatile brooch with a detachable pendant drop to enable the brooch to be worn in a simper form. The unusual Tahitian pearl in a shade of taupe can also be worn on a chain.
Lot 334
Lot 542 - An 18ct gold, sapphire and diamond oval cluster ring
Very similar to the engagement ring of Lady Diana Spencer, now worn by the Duchess of Cambridge. For those looking for the ultimate regal token of love, this makes for an affordable substitute for the real deal.
Lot 542
Designer Handbags & Couture – Claire Hayter
Lot 741 - A Chanel black caviar petit shopping tote
I just love this Chanel black caviar petit shopping tote. Although the design was discontinued in 2012, it’s the perfect size for day to day or casual evening wear. It’s in fabulous condition and the classic, chic design makes it the ideal addition to any stylish wardrobe.
Lot 741
Lot 771 - An early 20th century Louis Vuitton suitcase
This early 20th century Louis Vuitton suitcase is the ultimate in luxury travel style. If cases could talk, I think it would certainly have some stories to tell!
The design has stood the test of time and the quality and craftsmanship can’t be faulted. It will be treasured for years to come.
Lot 771
Our Fine Jewellery, Watches and Designer Handbags Auction takes place on Tuesday 11 - Wednesday 12 June. To find out more about the forthcoming sale, or to discuss a future consignment, please get in touch:
The term ‘Company School’ refers to a genre of painting that emerged in India in the late 18th and 19th centuries, flourishing under the patronage of British East India Company officials, their families, and other European residents in India. Sworders Asian & Islamic Art department is pleased to present a curated selection of these wonderfully insightful works in their next auction on Friday 15 May.
20 April 2026
A fascinating group of 42 lots from the Sir Thomas Longmore library feature in our Books, Manuscripts and Maps auction, offering a rare insight into Victorian military medicine and reform. Highlights include two letters by Florence Nightingale, alongside annotated books and personal volumes from Longmore’s own collection.
16 April 2026
A remarkable group of books from the library of Professor C.J.F. Dowsett will feature in our April Books, Manuscripts and Maps sale. The collection reflects a lifetime of scholarship in Armenian, Iranian and Near Eastern studies.
16 April 2026