Incredible Egyptian Revival Jewelry Sale from Alex Cooper Auctions

Taking place on February 5th, 2015 is an auction you don’t want to miss! It features some incredible Egyptian Revivial Jewelry from Alex Cooper Auctions, a mid-Atlantic region auction house that has been a reputable company since 1924. They handle all types of auctions, from Art, to coins, oriental rugs, and everything in between!  With a jewelry department that has seen some pretty magnificent jewels over the years–like a 6.45 carat rectangular step cut diamond ring circa 1920s and a mourning ring with “G. Washington” inscribed on the front in black enamel (see photos on their website) you’ll want to keep them on your radar!  Their auction gallery is located in Towson, Maryland and is a state-of-the-art facility where all the action goes down.  Not near that area of the US?  Don’t worry…if you’re like me, you’ll be logging in online and bidding that way through Invaluable–an auction directory where you can go to log-in and bid on auctions throughout the world, all in one place!  If you don’t already have an account through Invaluable, make sure to sign up!

The auction taking place on February 5th is special because all 180 lots come from the Estate of Barbara Mertz, a noted American writer and Egyptologist.  Ms. Mertz has a background/PhD in Egyptology from the University of Chicago and is best known for her suspense and mystery novels.  More on her fascinating life can be found on her website. This rare collection features some fine pieces that date back to the third century BC! Several pieces of highly-collectible Egyptian Revival jewelry, as well as antique rings and other neat finds.  I’ve picked out some of my favorite pieces above–and although I’ve never read any of her books, based on her jewelry, I can see she had great taste!

Lot 94: an Edwardian multi-gemstone necklace on a 14k gold rolo chain comprising of mostly quartz and topaz of various colors.  Circa 1900s.

Lot 28: Etruscan Revival gold and lapis demi-parure, featuring 14k yellow gold braided necklace with drops of lapis dangling, measuring 15 inches in length, with matching drop earrings. Circa 1880.

Lot 125: a trio of opal and gold rings, two are straight bands one with pearl accents, the other with diamond accents and the third ring is an opal navette ring.

Lot 129: a gold and rose cut diamond mourning ring with a shield motif and repousse flowers on the band, tests 22k gold with some wear to the enamel.

Lot 116: rare natural Alexandrite and diamond cluster ring with a certificate from the American Gemological Laboratories.

Lot 134: a Victorian 9k ring with an inside inscription that reads “From Mother” along with a gold-plated Lord of the Rings souvenir ring.

Lot 78: pair of Art Nouveau pearl dangle earrings set in 14k yellow gold.  Circa 1890s.

Lot 74: pair of red stone earrings set in 14k yellow gold.  Circa 19th century.

Lot 40: a Victorian and diamond bangle bracelet, with Etruscan granulation details and three Old Mine cut diamonds, all set in 22k & 14k yellow gold.  Circa 1880.

Lot 33: thick 14k yellow gold serpent bracelet set with one large garnet and two pink sapphire eyes. Circa mid-19th century.

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