A Timeless Selection of Heirlooms and Historical Treasures

25 Mar 2025

CAPE TOWN — History. Heritage. Heirloom.

The three H’s define the upcoming Strauss & Co Jewellery Timed Online Auction; The Classics Edition: History. Heritage. Heirloom, opening 20th March 2025 at 8 am and closing on 31st March 31, 2025 at 2pm.

The collection weaves these themes throughout many classic pieces, celebrating craftsmanship, design and skilled artisans. It explores the evolution of jewellery over time, offering a timeless selection with something for every collector.

With each piece styled, shaped and embellished using age-old techniques, these handmade, generational treasures have gathered stories, gained grandeur and endured long beyond their makers.

The craftsmanship celebrated in this selection connects us to the rich history of jewellery across the ages. Historically, jewellery has been a reflection of a hierarchical and status-conscious society. Royalty and nobility adorned themselves with gold, silver and precious gems, while lower classes wore base metals. In ancient times, emeralds were reserved for emperors and pharaohs; Cleopatra famously took control of Egypt’s emerald mines during her reign. The finest pieces from these eras now reside in vaults, museums and state collections.

The enduring appeal of antique jewellery lies not only in its workmanship but also in its rich historical context. As jewellery has long been associated with status and power, it carries with it stories that have survived, often commanding premium prices due to their rarity of the unique narratives they carry. In this spirit, The Classics Edition: History. Heritage. Heirloom presents a selection of remarkable pieces, including a 9k yellow gold locket dating back to the 1870s, inscribed by Sir Theophilus Shepstone, a British South African statesman responsible for the annexation of the Transvaal. Weighing over 14 grams, this locket is adorned with intricate motifs, making it both a symbol of history and a timeless treasure.

Heirloom jewellery embodies family, love and tradition, often passed down through generations —pieces from earlier centuries are easily distinguishable from those made today and transform to become cherished heirlooms for future generations. Over time, contemporary pieces inevitably become antiques, continuing this enduring cycle. The Classics Edition: History. Heritage. Heirloom features a stunning 18k yellow gold and emerald bracelet, a treasure that will be admired for years to come. Complementing it are classic future heirlooms, including a 2.01ct round brilliant-cut diamond solitaire ring set in 18k two-tone gold.

Across many cultures, pearls are revered as symbols of purity, wisdom and divinity. Associated with the moon and water, they are said to represent tears of joy in Greek mythology, bring luck and love to those born in June and hold significance in Christianity. With such a rich heritage, pearls continue to hold enduring appeal. This sale features a diverse selection of pearl pieces, including the signature Tahitian grey pearl strand, elegant pearl and diamond tear-drop earrings and a vintage, trend-setting diamond and pearl brooch.

Jewellery, by incorporating traditional motifs, materials and symbolic detailing, becomes a reflection of the spirit of various cultures. It serves as a medium for personal self-expression as wells as a representation of culture, allowing goldsmiths to imbue their creations with the heart of their heritage.

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