High calibre
This French 1950s calibre ruby and brilliant cut diamond ring set in 18ct yellow gold and platinum (pictured top) is priced at £4850 from Nigel Milne.
Protection from the evil eye
Figa made in 17th century Iberia – priced £25,000 by Wartski.
The figa (a clenched hand with the thumb protruding between the first and second fingers) is a potent symbol from the ancient world. It was worn as a powerful amulet to promote fertility and to protect its wearer from the evil eye – dark and magical forces.
This example above, made in 17th century Iberia, is made in rock crystal with gold and enamel mounts. Rock crystal itself was thought to have powerful prophylactic properties. It was widely believed that when dipped into a liquid, it would neutralise any poisons. It is priced at £25,000 by Wartski.
Golfing gem
French 1960s novelty gold and gem-set clip-brooch - priced at £3950 by John Joseph.
John Joseph is one of many jewellery dealers from the Grays Antiques Centre in London now trading from home. This French 1960s novelty gold and gem-set clip-brooch of a lady golfer is priced at £3950.
The colours of India
Gold necklace made in Jaipur, India, c.1800 – priced £22,000 at Sue Ollemans.
This unusual late-18th or early-19th century double-sided gold necklace is decorated with fine green, yellow and white enamel, and mounted with a row of green glass pearls resembling emeralds and pearls mounted with green glass.
The reverse is enamelled with bold green, red and yellow flowers against a white ground. Made in Jaipur, India, c.1800, with provenance to a private New York collection, it is priced at £22,000 by London dealer Sue Ollemans.
I am a token of love
A 16th century betrothal or marriage ring priced £36,500 at Berganza.
This 16th century betrothal or marriage ring is retailing for £36,500 at Berganza, London. It is set with a high-quality point cut diamond and to the interior is a posy inscribed in Latin Sum Singnum Amoris, translating as ‘I am a token of love’. The dealer describes the ring as a museum-quality object in immaculate condition.
