Fellows Hosts One of the Largest Blue John Auctions in the UK
On 5th October, Fellows Auctioneers offered over 250 remarkable lots in their Blue John auction. The auction was held in their Birmingham saleroom located in the historic Jewellery Quarter. The event was believed to be one of the largest dedicated Blue John auctions ever held, drawing collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts from across the country.
A Unique Blue John Auction Featuring Rare and Valuable Pieces
The extensive auction brought together an extraordinary variety of Blue John mineral items. They ranged from small souvenir bowls and fine jewellery to monumental, museum-quality pieces. Prices started at just £30, rising to over £30,000, making this sale accessible to both casual collectors and serious investors.
What Is Blue John?
Known for its striking bands of purple-blue and golden yellow, Derbyshire Blue John is a rare, semi-precious variety of fluorite. These vivid colours are believed to be the source of the mineral’s name, derived from the French words 'bleu' (blue) and 'jaune' (yellow).
This distinctive mineral is found only in the Treak Cliff Cavern and Blue John Cavern near Castleton in Derbyshire, making it both geologically unique and highly collectable. Due to its fragile nature and limited availability, it remains one of the most sought-after decorative minerals in the UK.
You can find out more about Blue John in our in-depth blog here.
Blue John Through the Ages
The use of Blue John became especially fashionable during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It was mined extensively for ornamental and architectural purposes. It was crafted into a range of objects, from urns and vases to inlaid furniture and decorative features for grand homes.
Today, mining continues on a very small scale, further adding to the mineral’s rarity and prestige.
Enduring Appeal for Collectors
Collectors and enthusiasts are often drawn to Blue John’s stunning natural appearance. The mythology and mystery surrounding its origins and name also appeals to collectors. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of Blue John, it’s easy to see why this unique British gemstone has captured imaginations for centuries.
Blue John Auction Highlights
Lot 98
A superb Blue John campana-form urn and cover
Price Realised: £26,000.00
Lot 24
A rare Blue John and bronze table
Price Realised: £5,850.00
Lot 135
A Blue John pedestal dish or tazza
Price Realised: £4,550.00
Lot 81
A fine Art Deco sterling silver and Blue John necklace
Price Realised: £2,600.00
Lot 161
A Blue John boulder
Price Realised: £728.00
Valuations
If you are looking to find out how much your jewellery could be worth, why not speak to our specialists? Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. With a valuation, our experts will provide you with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
Fill in a form online, or you can book an appointment to visit our offices in Birmingham and London. We can also offer you a virtual valuation appointment.
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