Stars, Stripes & Diamonds

Jewels in the form of necklaces, bracelets and earclips. The Sotheby's Jewels Online Part I sale includes some of the most celebrated American jewellery makers of all time, including Tiffany & Co., David Webb, Seaman Schepps and more. As easily paired with blue jeans as with a formal gown, the versatile designs exude effortless American style.

Tiffany & Co. has been making jewellery since 1837, and their iconic designs have been admired and collected by some of the most glamorous American women, including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Elizabeth Taylor. This charming three-stone ring is emblematic of the brand, which is known for their highly covetable engagement rings.

Diamond and emerald ring, Tiffany & Co. Starting bid $5,000.

 

 

Jewels by David Webb, originally from Asheville, North Carolina, represent American style by drawing inspiration from a variety of cultures. The designer is most famous for his bold gold pieces, many in the form of animals and decorated with intricate enamel work.

Pair of diamond and enamel earclips, David Webb. Starting bid $4,000.

 

 

 

Designer Tony Duquette was first discovered by designer and society figure Lady Elsie de Wolfe Mendl. Born in Los Angeles, Duquette gained a following for his innovative visions for costumes, film sets, interiors and jewellery. Jewels by Duquette are known for being colourful and full of personality.

Amethyst, citrine and smoky quartz necklace, Tony Duquette. Starting bid $2,000.

 

 

 

American jewellery design for over a century. The maker’s impeccable craftsmanship has been passed down for over three generations, and each jewel is designed to highlight the featured gemstones.

Pair of diamond earclips, Oscar Heyman & Brothers. Starting bid $7,000.

 

 

 

 

American jeweller Seaman Schepps has created bespoke pieces for historic American families including the Mellons, Roosevelts and Rockefellers. A marked attention to detail and an ability to combined unexpected materials are the designer’s trademarks. His ‘Turbo Shell’ designs, including the present lot, have been jewellery staples since the 1940s.

Pair of ‘ Turbo Shell’ and cultured pearl earclips, Seaman Schepps. Starting bid $1,500.

 

 

From donating the Hope Diamond to the Smithsonian Museum, to creating red-carpet glamour as we know it, Harry Winston is uniquely woven into American history. Jewels by Winston, who is regarded as the “King of Diamonds,” are known for their exclusive use of top-quality gemstones and eternally stylish designs.

Ruby, diamond and sapphire brooch, Harry Winston. Starting bid $2,000.

 

 

 

From Naples, Italy to Boca Raton, Florida, the Aletto Brothers' story contains nearly two centuries’ of history. Invisibly set jewels, such as the cufflinks seen here, are a signature of the design house.

Pair of sapphire cufflinks, Aletto brothers. Starting bid $1,500.

 

 

 

Based in New York City, Valentin Magro creates vibrant one-of-a-kind jewels, many of which draw inspiration from nature. Magro’s artistry is bolstered by his experiences working for renowned American designers including Harry Winston, David Webb and Tiffany & Co.

Peridot and diamond clip-brooch and earclips, Valentin Magro. Starting bid $5,000.

 

 

 

 

Jewels by Judith Ripka are celebrated for their combination of textures and blending of classic and contemporary design elements. The playful motif, which finds its way into many of her pieces, has rendered Ripka the “Queen of Hearts.”

Pink sapphire and diamond necklace, Judith Ripka. Starting bid $4,000.

 

 

Opens from 30 June to 14 July, if you are curious click ahead to discover nine jewels and the stories behind their iconic American makers.

Jewels Online: Part I 30 June–14 July

Arianna Pinton