Opal mine company coughs up its auction treasures in time for Christmas

It could be the ideal Christmas gift for a special loved one – superb opal jewellery from the Melbourne Opal Mine that is part of E.J. Ainger’s forthcoming weekly sale from 9.30 Tuesday December 19 at 433 Bridge Road, Richmond.

An even more unusual gift idea is the collection of Aboriginal didgeridoos and Papua New Guinea Sepik River items.

Architectural pieces and industrial furnishings, including glazed French doors, are other attractions in the weekly auction, which also comprises the usual array of French, English and Australian furniture.

Some of the furniture attractions are a mahogany breakfront four-door bookcase, two fine twin pedestal mahogany and leather top desks, 10-piece jarrah kitchen/dining setting and an English ebonised and painted display sideboard – along with Sheraton revival display cabinets, leather and fabric upholstered lounges and armoires.   

There also are gilded and Venetian style mirrors, occasional tables and chairs, Persian and other floor carpets from private residences, and a pair of cast iron garden urns among tables, pot plant stands and other cast iron pieces.

Oil paintings, watercolours and graphics are a feature for art enthusiasts.