Alex Cooper Gallery Sale — May 10th, 2018 - Gem Gossip

Maryland-based auction house Alex Cooper Auctioneers has a noteworthy sale coming up Thursday, May 10th, 2018. The sale consists of over 200 pieces of jewelry and gems, with highlights such as loose gemstones like rough and faceted diamonds, some of them being fancy colored! There is also a substantial collection of Victorian pieces, so if that time period is your favorite, you will want to make sure to check out this sale. Aside from the jewelry, lots 350-710 consist of designer accessories, coins, currency, and sterling silver items.

I spent some time browsing Alex Cooper’s Gallery Sale and picked some highlights. Whether you are a beginner to the jewelry auction scene and want to try your hand at bidding online or a connoisseur wanting to add to your private collection, this sale has it all. Let’s get into my top picks:

First though, I want to highlight the diamonds in this sale, pictured above. As you can see, there are a mix of rough and faceted diamonds…the furthest on the right is a 6.02 carat cushion cut fancy light brownish yellow diamond. This loose collection of gems is a rare treat and the lots open up the Gallery Sale, so be sure to check those out first!

Lot 153: This lot features a collection of Victorian mourning jewelry — a necklace, two bracelets, and a bar pin. The necklace features seed pearls and comes with a matching bracelet. These pieces may be from the late 1800s, but they still are just as stylish today, which is exactly why I love antique jewelry. Estimate: $250-400

Lot 157: I first saw this lamb brooch on Instagram when Alex Cooper posted it to their official account. I instantly fell in love with that sweet face, how could you not?! And the details on this piece—from the textured “wool” coat to the black enamel hooves—love the craftsmanship. It is done in 14k yellow gold. Estimate: $200-400

Lot 162: This pretty little ring combines two motifs I absolutely love: clusters and the bypass style. To top it all off, diamonds and sapphires are used in this design, a favorite of mine as well. This piece is done in 18k yellow gold and is currently a size 6 1/4. Estimate: $600-800

Lot 164: I’ve been loving jewelry from the 1960s/70s and this disc pendant is a prime example of why I love that time period. The large onyx is bold and the textured yellow gold makes a statement. The pendant is done in 18k yellow gold with diamonds and measures 2.5” in width. Estimate: $1,000-2,000

Lot 183: This antique diamond ring speaks to me! I love the wonkiness of the center Old Mine cut and the cut-out metal work of the setting. This would make such a great alternative engagement ring! Estimate: $600-800

Lot 278: I’ve always loved a good wreath motif—this brooch combines diamonds, pearls, and fine enamel work into a beautiful design from the turn-of-the-century. The diamonds total 2.20 carats and the gold is 18k. Estimate: $1,000-2,000

Lot 288: Black and white cameos are my favorite and this brooch is quite stunning. It depicts a mythological scene set in 18k yellow gold and the details are immaculate. From the engraving to the beadwork, this piece is an investment. Estimate: $500-700

Lot 292: This gorgeous Victorian pendant features a color combo that is currently very popular. The robin’s egg blue paired with angelskin coral is such a feminine pairing. I’m totally loving it and whoever wins this will own a treasure of the past. Estimate: $600-800

Lot 303: Two pieces in one lot—a pair of cufflinks and a unique charm holder pendant with black enameling. The pendant is holds a puffed heart charm and I picture the winner of this lot adding their own charms to the pendant and displaying their collection that way. There are many possibilities of converting the cufflinks: make two rings, a pair of earrings or two pendants. Estimate: $250-400

This post was brought to you in collaboration with Alex Cooper Auctioneers.