This exquisite 1920s bracelet captures the glamour of the Art Deco era, with diamonds, sapphires and masterful design from Hunt and Roskell.
The decade described as the roaring twenties is the ultimate era for sophisticated glamour, luxury and pleasure. The Art Deco era was born in the middle of the decade, circa 1926 at the Paris exhibition, and quickly began to influence architecture, interiors, fashion and, of course, fine jewellery design. Geometric shapes, symmetrical lines and opulent materials paved the way for pieces that felt thoroughly modern yet unmistakably luxurious. It is often referred to as the golden age of jewellery, when platinum emerged and precious gemstones were used in glorious abundance.
Our latest addition is a spectacular creation from that very era. It comes in the form of a rather decadent bracelet, showcasing a bold geometrical design, perfect symmetry and exquisite detailing that utilises the natural sparkle of both diamonds and sapphires to dramatic effect. Every link has been carefully considered so that light is captured and reflected from every angle, creating a constant play of brilliance around the wrist. This wonderful bracelet was originally retailed through the Bond Street store of Hunt and Roskell, one of the most highly regarded jewellers and silversmiths of their day, which only adds to its desirability for collectors and connoisseurs.
Hunt and Roskell was a renowned jewellery and silver house on Bond Street in London, and for many years proudly held the Royal Warrant of Queen Victoria. The firm was the successor to the celebrated silversmith Paul Storr, who had left Rundell, Bridge and Rundell to set up his own workshop on Harrison Street near Clerkenwell in 1819. A couple of years later he went into partnership with John Mortimer and began trading from 13 New Bond
Street as Storr and Mortimer. The firm was increasingly successful, and, in 1838, it moved to impressive new premises at 156 New Bond Street, settling in just prior to the retirement of Paul Storr at the end of December that same year.
This prompted a name change to Mortimer and Hunt, which the business operated under from 1839 until 1843 when John Mortimer retired and the name changed once again, this time to Hunt and Roskell. The company continued to build a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, royal patronage and refined taste, remaining a leading name in London jewellery until it was eventually purchased by Hancock’s in the 1960s.
The Art Deco bracelet epitomises the outstanding craftsmanship of the age. Its articulated construction allows the bracelet to effortlessly contour the wrist, enabling the diamonds to catch and reflect the light with every movement of the arm. The coruscating, glistening jewel truly embodies luxury and quality. Set with approximately four and a half carats of natural European-cut diamonds, combined with a striking, sapphire-set symmetrical design and all mounted in 950 platinum, it is a piece intended to impress from every angle.
In its day the bracelet would have been marketed to the very wealthy elite, reflected in its original enormous price tag, and it would almost certainly have been worn for grand soirées, dinners and society occasions. Having handled many items of jewellery from such distinguished jewellers of the period, we feel this ranks amongst the finest to date and stands as a museum-worthy example of its kind.
Here at Juels’ Limited we are always actively seeking to purchase important items of period jewellery for our principal window display. If you have any pieces of jewellery you may wish to sell, have valued or appraised, we would be delighted to see you. Simply drop by our store and ask for James; we are open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am until 4.30pm and no appointment is required. Whether it is a single treasured item or a collection, we offer friendly, expert advice in complete confidence and look forward to helping you uncover the true potential of your jewellery.