Lot 103. A pair of natural pearl and diamond earclips, by Sterlé. Estimate £50,000 - £70,000. Courtesy Bonham's.

Each surmount designed as undulating ribbons of baguette-cut diamonds issuing from a single marquise-cut diamond, suspending a detachable natural pearl drop, measuring 13.7mm x 18.5mm or 13.5mm x 17.2mm, with a brilliant-cut diamond cap, signed Sterlé Paris, numbered 1935, French assay marks, length 6.1cm.

Accompanied by a report from SSEF stating that the pearls are natural, saltwater. Report number 110669, dated 31 October 2019.

Note: Pierre Sterlé (1905-1978) was one of the most important jewellers working in Paris during the mid 20th century. His ability to manipulate metal enabled him to bring remarkable fluidity, movement and life to his pieces. He favoured the purity of platinum and diamonds and often contrasted the lively sparkle of brilliant-cut stones with the clean geometry of baguette-cuts. The elegant engineering that characterized his pieces is seen here in the graceful rendering of the baguette-cut diamond ribbons that are designed to seamlessly envelop the ear. Sterlé's diamond designs won him the prestigious DeBeers Diamond Award in 1953, 1954 and 1955.

Bonham's. London Jewels, December 4, 2019 2:00 PM GMT