Christmas jewellery bonanza at Philips Auctions

While some of the top pieces of jewellery at Philips Auctions December sale carry thousands of dollars in estimates, many of the 230 lots are in the more affordable hundreds of dollars range and would make ideal Christmas gifts.

The auction, from 12pm Sunday December 13 at 47 Glenferrie Road, Malvern, features a range to suit all comers including a striking 14-carat gold abstract boulder open and diamond drop necklace (lot 230) with a catalogue estimate of $10,000-$20,000.

Many of the rings and bracelets are worthy of special consideration including a five stone diamond half hoop ring totalling 2.06 carats (lot 186 - $10,000-$14,000) and an approximately 4.2-carat Columbian emerald and diamond cluster ring (lot 80 - $7000-$9000).

A 14-carat fancy emerald set bracelet with diamond detail weighing about 17 carats (lot 146) is estimated to bring a similar figure to the Columbian ring while a pair of 1.36-carat old cut diamond solitaire studs (lot 78) is in the $6500-$8000 range.

Old cut diamonds always seem to retain their value and lot 106, an old cut diamond solitaire ring is no exception with an $8000-$10,000 estimate.

Two other rings are almost as valuable with estimates of $6000-$8000. They are a fancy golden sapphire and diamond set bombe ring (lot 97) and a stylish aquamarine and diamond cluster ring (lot 151).

A golden South Sea pearl strand with faceted gold beads (lot 95) is another strong attraction along with a 5.2-carat diamond line bracelet of 14-carat rose gold (lot 137).

Other items worthy of mention include lot 86, a fancy link sapphire and diamond bracelet, an elegant oval emerald and diamond cluster ring (lot 93) and a modern simple solitaire emerald dress ring (lot 94).