Model wearing lots 94, 95, and 96. The New York Jewels Auction.
Recent market exuberance notwithstanding, it's unquestionable that gold is a timeless material. Symbolizing strength and enduring value, the iconic gold pieces in our upcoming auction also set the stage for the powerful women who designed them and those who wore them. These treasures are now a part of the cyclical luxury gold market and can be yours to wear.
Jackie Kennedy-Onassis in Van Cleef & Arpels
Van Cleef & Arpels, Gold Cuff Bracelet. Estimate: $25,000–35,000. The New York Jewels Auction.
In 1977, Jackie Kennedy-Onassis wore a pair of these bracelets to a charity event at New York City's famed Rainbow Room at Rockefeller Center, where she met Mohammed Ali. As the quintessential fashion influencer of the era, her every move was followed by the press. Ever since, these bracelets have often been referred to as the “Jackie O” Cuff Bracelets.
Jacqueline Kennedy, Muhammad Ali and Veronica Ali, 1977. Bettmann / Getty Images
The Van Cleef & Arpels cuffs exude power and confidence through sculpted 18k yellow gold. The design references Etruscan goldwork, where pieces were hand-worked and often showed irregular surfaces. What’s more, Van Cleef & Arpels commemorated the Apollo moon landing of 1969 with a gold pendant, and although not intended, we can’t help but think of the otherworldly surfaces when admiring this texture.
Van Cleef & Arpels, Gold Cuff Bracelet. Estimate: $25,000–35,000. The New York Jewels Auction.
Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co.
Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co., Gold Necklace. Estimate: US$6,000–8,000. The New York Jewels Auction.
This incredible necklace is not only bold, feminine, and wearable, but it was also designed by an icon — Paloma Picasso. The daughter of Pablo and Françoise Gilot, her artistic designs reflect her lifelong exposure to creativity — and to powerful women. The artist began her long-standing and influential collaboration with Tiffany & Co. in 1980, and her work is celebrated for its vibrant style and modern sensibility. An opportunity to wear something created by a living female artist, this hammered gold necklace is as striking as it is wearable.
Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co.
Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co., Gold Bracelet, 'Bone Cuff'. Estimate: US$8,000–12,000. The New York Jewels Auction.
One of the world’s most renowned and celebrated jewelry designers, Elsa Peretti’s work is showcased in museums around the globe. At once sensual and conceptual, her iconic ‘Bone Cuff‘ design conforms to the wrist with its fluid and sinuous curves. A symbol of power, grace, and independence for women, it has also transcended passing trends, remaining as fresh today as it was 50 years ago. Peretti left her entire estate to charity and created the Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation to carry out philanthropic work for those in need, which can be fresh inspiration to new wearers of her art.
Lalaounis' ancient wisdom
Lalaounis, Gold Necklace and Pair of Earrings. Estimate: US$5,000–7,000. The New York Jewels Auction.
Like 16 birds set free from their cages, this design by Ilias Lalaounis is a symbol of empowerment through adornment. The designer‘s legacy is cemented by his way of celebrating the enduring beauty and power of gold, drawing inspiration from ancient artifacts and diverse cultures, yet rooted in his own Greek heritage. Today, the internationally acclaimed house continues under the stewardship of his daughters, carrying forward his remarkable legacy.
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