An Early 20th Century Platinum Diamond Tiara

Fellows’ upcoming Antique & Modern Jewellery sale features a stunning early 20th century platinum diamond tiara. The beautiful item is one of the standout lots in the sale, which takes place on Thursday 13 September. The tiara is estimated at £25,000 – £35,000.

Alex Duffy, from the Jewellery Department at Fellows Auctioneers, has taken us through the details of this beautiful tiara:

The design appears to depict a thistle, the national flower of Scotland. Wearing flowers or leaves signified honor, love, or victory in ancient times. This could be traced back to ancient Greece where gods and kings would adorn such designs.

The thistle itself is set to be a symbol of bravery, devotion and strength. This tiara is set with a substantial amount of diamond, the symbol of love and eternity. It is the perfect stone for such a magnificent piece.

We spoke to Alex in more depth, to get an insight into where his personal passion for jewellery came from, and his favourite items in our upcoming sale.

1.I wonder how and why you initially got interested in jewellery?

My interest in jewellery stems from before I can even remember. As a toddler I was always found with shiny objects in my hands.

From an early age I have been passionately collecting gemstones and minerals, which was really my route into the jewellery industry. Once I finished school, I trained as a gemmologist for three years and worked as a jewellery mounter for two years prior to my position at Fellows.

2. What are your favourite jewellery brands and why?

Fabergé has always been a favourite of mine. Their designs can just be so exceptionally lavish. I’ve always been in awe at the eggs they have produced. I’ve also always been a fan of Tiffany & Co. They have mastered the art of simplicity and elegance, and the craftsmanship in some of their ‘high jewellery’ is incredible.

3. What’s some of your favourite jewellery which you own? And why?

Well, emerald is quite possibly my favourite stone, particularly those from Colombia, and I have recently been able to purchase and mount one into a diamond cluster ring. It might not be the finest example, but I’m really proud and happy with the result. (As is my girlfriend…).

4. What are your thoughts on the tiara in this sale?

It’s a pleasant surprise when you get to come across something as decadent and special as this. The fact that it is completely covered in diamond just makes it that little bit better, of course.

5. Do you have a favourite piece from this sale (Antique & Modern Jewellery on September 13)?

Another tricky question. My eyes constantly get drawn to the Faberge ‘Palais Tsarskoye Selo’ pendant. As I mentioned earlier, some of Fabergé’s designs are my favourites and this one in particular is just gorgeous. The iconic egg shape, with the turquoise guilloche enamel and diamond accents. What’s not to love?

6. What are your expectations for this sale?

There’s a lot of buzz around this one. We have a great selection of really special items and we’re getting a lot of positive interest. It’s going to be exciting to watch, that’s for sure.

The upcoming Antique & Modern Jewellery sale takes place on Thursday 13 September, you can view the catalogue via our website here.