Bulgari Two Strand Choker Necklace with pearls, diamonds and gemstones

A Californian antiques auction includes a dazzling Bulgari Choker Necklace as one of its highlights

We've already mentioned one highlight of a Californian antiques and art auction which is coming up in a week's time. That is, a rather unusual creation by Tiffany's.

This is an 'Aztec' presentation dagger, crafted by G Paul Farnham in the early 1900s from ivory, sterling silver and obsidian (volcanic glass). It was made with reference to the Aztec practice of using obsidian to edge their knives as this makes an exceptionally sharp blade.

Farnham was Tiffany's chief jewellery designer from 1891 to 1908 and today many experts consider him to be the best designer the firm ever employed.

But there is another highlight in the sale of the sort which many would more naturally associate with Tiffany's: a spectacular two strand choker necklace.

The Bulgari two strand choker necklace (est. $125,000-$175,000)

A creation of the jewellery house Bulgari, the striking and beautiful piece consists of ruby rondelle bead and cultured pearl, and featuring three gemstone pendant elements:

On the wearer's right, the first is set with a blue sapphire cabochon above an oval-cut fuscia coloured fancy sapphire. One the wearer's left, the element sets a ruby cabochon above an oval cut blue fancy sapphire and finally in the centre an emerald cabochon is set above an oval cut pale pinkish peach coloured fancy sapphire.

All the elements are stabilised by baguette-cut diamonds. The whole necklace is fastened with an 18k yellow gold clasp.

There are many more highlights in this fascinating February 19 auction, which offers full internet bidding. Watch this space for more.

Recent and related articles

· 'Tudor chain of office' is the subject of a court case for Sotheby's 'negligence' | 8 February 2012

· Patek Philippe antique music box brings sweet sounds to Maine auction | 8 February 2012

· Jaeger LeCoultre Hybris Mecanique watches set sold separately for the first time | 7 February 2012

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Images: Clars