Ultra rare necklace sparks £41k bidding war

A RARE necklace which was expected to sell for no more than £3,000 at Birmingham auction, has realised a staggering £41,000.

Bidders from across the world battled for the Boivin necklace, which features two rows of turquoise beads, at Fellows Auctioneers.

The demand for Boivin jewellery is big as pieces rarely appear on the market.

René Boivin (1864-1917), and his wife Jeanne (1871-1959) created some of Paris’ most celebrated and influential jewellery for more than eight decades.

The Boivins became renowned for championing their female designers, including daughter Germaine, Suzanne Belperron and Juliette Moutard.

Despite their influence and renown, their iconic designs are rarely seen on the open market. However, when they do appear, they command high prices.

A similar necklace to the one sold by Fellows appeared at Sotheby’s, New York, in 2014 and realised 50,000 dollars.

The Fellows catalogue described the lot as: “Two rows of turquoise beads, graduated in size, suspended on each side from a line of three rounded rock crystal beads, while the blackenamelled silver half hoop at the back of the necklace also features tapered curves that hug the neck and draw your eye to the beads.

“The concealed clasp in the hoop closes with a satisfying click – the sign of good craftsmanship.”

Ben Randall, senior specialist and catalogue manager at Fellows, said: “When a piece has no obvious signature it can be exceptionally difficult to track down the maker. Dedicated research, style and a hearty dose of luck are necessary.

“I feel very fortunate that we were able to discover the designer of this necklace.

“There are certain names that you hope to come across with Art Deco jewellery and René Boivin is toward the top of a short list. The quality in this necklace really shone through to give a great result and I’m thrilled for the vendor.”