Coral, emerald, diamond and onyx parrot brooch, Van Cleef & Arpels, circa 1990. Photo courtesy Sotheby's

Meticulously designed as a parrot resting on a twig, the feathers set with corals of pink, red and strong orangy red hues highlighted by brilliant-cut diamonds, the body pavé-set with circular-cut diamonds, accented by emerald-set eye, onyx beak and twig, the diamonds together weighing approximately 5.30 carats, mounted in 18 karat yellow gold, signed VCA and numbered M39688. Estimate  480,000 — 580,000 HKD

Literature: Cf: Sarah D. Coffin, Set in Style, the Jewellery of Van Cleef & Arpels, New York, 2011, page 133 for a similar example of this brooch. 

FLEETING BEAUTY
The ethereal diamond “Oiseau” clip in 1920 marked Van Cleef & Arpels’ first emulation of the elegance and airiness found in birds, one of Nature’s most elusive creatures. These feathered creatures that defy gravity never cease to fascinate jewelers with their fragile beauty and poetic rhythm, whether in flight or at rest; their plumages and feathers also allow the Maison to explore a flamboyant palette of precious stones in each unique rendition. The bird motif was especially popular during the 60s, when different species, from finches to parakeets, came alive in the hands of Van Cleef & Arpels’ talented artisans. The celebrated ‘Birds of Paradise’ series is a fine collection that encapsulates intricacies of birds, and a testimony to Van Cleef & Arpels’ exceptional craftsmanship

Sotheby's. Fine Timepieces & Jewels. Hong Kong | 06 Dec 2013 _ www.sothebys.com