Necklace dazzles buyers at Greenslade Taylor Hunt antiques sale to sell for £74,000

A packed saleroom was captivated by the high calibre offering, which had been consigned following a house call by gemmologist and valuer Richard Slater.

“It was a wonderful selection of jewellery. The owner had great taste,” said Richard.

An early mid 20th Century platinum and diamond riviere necklace comprising 57 graduated old-cut and transition-cut stones of approximately 42 carats in total was the standout lot of the day.

There was fierce competition to possess the necklace and no fewer than five phone lines waded into the battle.

Spirited bidding started at £25,000 and quickly soared as a series of room and phone bidders tussled for ownership of the impeccable piece.

Eventually a room bidder secured the necklace as auctioneer Derek Biss brought the hammer down at £74,000 – the highest price achieved for a single item of jewellery since the saleroom re-located to The Octagon Salerooms in East Reach, Taunton, in 2013.

Other jewellery from this exceptional collection found new homes with a pair of early 20th Century platinum and diamond cluster pendent earrings being bought for £9,000.

A Victorian diamond hexafoil pendant/brooch with a pear-shaped diamond drop from the same stable achieved £6,200.

STUNNING: An early 20th Century platinum and diamond spectacle set necklace sold for £3,200

Diligent gemmologist and valuer Richard Slater had also identified an early 20th Century platinum and diamond spectacle-set necklace, which was tucked away in a box among a selection of costume jewellery. It was bought for £4,000.

STYLISH: Late Victorian gold and agate panel bracelet

Items are now being accepted for the next sale, which takes place on Thursday, July 4. Please contact the saleroom on 01823 332525 for further details or to arrange a home visit.