A platinum brooch set with a rare pink diamond, a royal parure once worn by Mussolini’s daughter, and a 1925 bracelet from a master jeweller who worked with Van Cleef & Arpels – these are just a few of the treasures up for grabs at the upcoming Wannenes jewellery auction in Monaco.
Timed to coincide with the celebrated Monaco Art Week, Wannenes Casa d’Aste will present its next major sale on Monday 7th and Tuesday 8th July at the Hôtel Metropole. The auction house, known for blending tradition with innovation, promises a catalogue that reads like a glittering journey through the history of jewellery – from Belle Époque marvels to 20th century masterworks.
A historic exhibition of wearable art
The auction features 444 lots, many of which have been curated for their provenance, rarity, and design versatility. Among the crown jewels of the sale is a brooch-pendant by Italian house Cusi (lot 391), showcasing a Fancy Light Pink diamond, a Fancy Intense Yellow diamond, and a fine Colombian emerald – all arranged in a rhomboid cut and set in platinum. With accompanying GIA and SSEF certificates, it’s estimated at €190,000 to €220,000 and is already generating strong pre-sale interest.
Equally captivating is a platinum ring (lot 264) set with a 5.40-carat unheated Burmese ruby, framed by diamonds. Noted for its exceptional clarity and colour saturation, this piece carries a €70,000 to €80,000 estimate.
Iconic names and timeless design
Collectors with an eye for period design will be drawn to lot 430 – a transformable necklace by Auger Paris from the late 19th century. Adorned with sapphires, enamel, and diamonds, it can be reconfigured into brooches or hairpins using original tools still housed in its antique case. Its estimate: €40,000 to €50,000.
Art Deco lovers will appreciate a platinum bracelet (lot 444) by Louis Maruzzi, the Italian-French craftsman who worked with Van Cleef & Arpels. Studded with emeralds, amethysts, and diamonds, this circa-1925 piece is expected to fetch between €18,000 and €22,000.
There’s even a glimpse of history in lot 135: a gold and silver parure set with cabochon sapphires, rubies, and diamond roses.
Once owned by Edda Ciano, daughter of Benito Mussolini, the 1940s-era suite – complete with earrings, necklace, bracelet and ring – is estimated at €15,000 to €20,000.
Coveted couture: luxury handbags join the showcase
In addition to rare jewels, the Wannenes auction will feature an enviable collection of luxury handbags, elevating the event’s allure for fashion connoisseurs. Among the highlights is a dazzling Hermès Birkin 35 crafted in black crocodile, a timeless statement of elegance and exclusivity.
A vivid Hermès Kelly 28 in fiery orange ostrich leather, perfectly preserved with its original accessories, adds a vibrant pop of colour and rare materiality to the line-up. Collectors will also find a classic Chanel 2.55 bag in quilted black leather, a perennial icon of Parisian chic, and a limited-edition Louis Vuitton Capucines, featuring an artistic twist on the maison’s traditional design. These fashion treasures not only carry the hallmark of their luxury houses but also the potential to become investment pieces, sure to command spirited bidding in Monaco.
A cultural moment in Monte Carlo
The auction’s preview exhibition will run from Friday 4th to Tuesday 8th July at the Hôtel Metropole. Held during Monaco Art Week, the event offers collectors a rare chance to view and acquire high jewellery in a setting that celebrates the Principality’s international standing in the world of art and design.
To see the full catalogue, click here.
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Main photo: Platinum band bracelet with emeralds, amethysts and old-cut diamonds by Louis Maruzzi, circa 1925. All photos courtesy Wannenes