The foundation aims to help young indigenous Australians enjoy the same wellbeing, strong sense of self belief, and educational opportunities as their peers. Their mission is to create, with partners, a range of pathways to success in this endeavour.
Her collection of seven items was bought as rewards for sporting achievements. The jewellery includes brands such as Tiffany & Co, Cartier, Jensen and Bvlgari.
The collection has been valued by John D’Agata, Head of Jewellery at Leonard Joel, at approximately $25,000- 30,000. “Obviously we are hoping for much more.” said John D’Agata. Joels are donating the buyer’s premium on the lots 96-102 to the Foundation.
At a preview of the jewellery to be sold, Catherine told the Antiques Reporter that her favourite ring is a 1.14ct Tiffany & Co solitaire diamond ring, (Lot 102 ) with an auction estimate of $8,000-10,000.
Catherine said “I am no longer the material girl I was. My passion is now the children in the community.” “I would say all the jewellery brought me luck.”
Other items in the Sale include a 2.58ct old style cut diamond surrounded by blue sapphires in an Art Deco style (Lot 205 ), estimated at $20,000-25,000.
Some of the old cut diamond shapes are being cut again however with much greater symmetry than previously obtained due to newer technology and this is how one can usually differentiate the ‘new old cut’ diamond from a genuine ‘old cut’.
The sale includes several excellent opals. One even has its own name, the “Gouger’s Dream”, (Lot 104 ), a large crystal opal of fine colour and weighing in at 60.15ct in its own fitted box. Estimate is $15,000-$20,000
One of the top Art Deco pieces is a beautiful 2.5ct opal with excellent play of colour set in an original Art Deco platinum ring with diamond shoulders (Lot 143 ). The ring has a makers mark for W. Drummond & Co. with an estimate of $6,000-$8,000
Featured of the front cover of the catalogue is a splendid Art Deco, onyx, opal , conch pearls, diamond and platinum brooch (Lot 145 ). It has some interesting later work including seed pearls painted black which has replaced two small round onyx beads. The opal has excellent play of colour on both front and back. One initially may think it was two opals back to back. Estimate is $10,000-$12,000
Selling one lot before, are matching earrings featuring emerald, diamond platinum and very fine dark opal (Lot 144 ). Estimate is $6,000-8,000
For the animal lover there are numerous opportunities.
There are kookaburras in a 15ct gold set with seed pearls and paste brooch with an estimate of $300-$500 (Lot 110 ); a silver lizard brooch set with green and white pastes, (Lot 75 ), estimated at $200-$400; a kangaroo with joey pendant in 18ct gold, (Lot 134 ), estimate $300-$500 a diamond horseshoe with a horse and jockey - perfect for the spring racing carnival, estimate $300-$500 (Lot 88 ).
Also included is a horse head brooch and pendant both in 14ct gold, estimate $400-$600 (Lot 174 ).
John D’Agata’s favourite is an 15ct antique double stick pin set with a finely modelled bear on a branch with a pearl and gemstone, estimate $500-$700 (Lot 189 ). It is interesting to note that 15ct gold was only made in Australia and England from 1854 to 1932.
We have to wait till Monday night to see how the current quiet retail climate affects this auction.