Lot 129. A fine Art Deco 4.94 carats, E color, VS1 clarity diamond ring, C.D. Peacock, circa 1925. Estimate US$ 90,000 - 150,000 (€80,000 - 130,000). Photo: Bonhams.

centering an emerald-cut diamond, weighing 4.94 carats, within an engraved mount, enhanced by single-cut and French-cut diamonds; signed Peacock; mounted in platinum; size 4 1/2

Accompanied by GIA report # 5171618676, dated May 05, 2016, stating the diamond as: E color, VS1 clarity.

Notes: The 1920's or "roaring twenties" was characterized with a dynamic political, social, technical and artistic change that provided an uncensored flamboyant environment. The nation's wealth more than doubled, bringing prosperity to America; women could now vote and work; the automobile industry flourished - one in every five American had wheels; jazz was hot, and even with prohibition, the world was full of splendor and glamour. The twenties roared like no decade before it, and Chicago was a rich hotbed of industry and entertainment.

Jewelry also saw a change from the flourishes of the belle époque and rococo swags and bows to modern, sleek, geometric forms mirrored by the change in fashion and the decorative arts. This ring reflects the 1920 aesthetic – an elegant engraved platinum mounting accented with French-cut diamond shoulders and single-cut diamond gallery, surmounted by a squared emerald-cut diamond of high color and clarity. The beautiful cut and proportions of this diamond were the most popular during the art deco era, and undoubtedly this was not only a special diamond but also an exquisite mounting.

This ring was purchased from one of the oldest jewelry stores in Chicago, C.D. Peacock, which although incorporated in 1902, first opened their doors in 1837. Founder Elijah Peacock emigrated from London, a third generation watch and jewelry repairman, he offered is clients "old world elegance." The business passed down through generations, yet never strayed from offering the finest quality items to their wealthy private clientele. The interior of the band is engraved with the initials of OBM, owing to family legend that it was a ring belonging to Oatsie Muller, married in Chicago during 1927.

The Peacock commitment to excellence attracted the crème de la crème of Chicago society from Cyrus McCormick to George Pullman. Catering to the elite with its unparalleled sense of design and craftsmanship.

Bonhams. FINE JEWELLERY, 20 Jun 2016, 13:00 EDT, NEW YORK