Clars is thrilled to present our upcoming special Spring Fine Jewelry & Watches Auction on Friday, April 18th. This auction, being the department’s largest quarterly sale, features a remarkable collection of high-end jewelry, showcasing a diverse range of stunning pieces that capture the artistry and sophistication of the world’s most sought-after gemstones and precious metals.

Clars’ spring sale is sure to present an impressive assortment of jewelry and watches to cater to every collector’s preference. The auction will showcase a stunning assortment of rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, each crafted to dazzle with its radiant elegance and charm. Highlights include an antique diamond and silver-topped 14k gold brooch, featuring extraordinary rose-cut diamonds, estimated at $10,000–$20,000, a Columbian emerald, seed pearl, diamond and 18k gold necklace, estimated at $3,000–$5,000, and an exceptional color-changing alexandrite ring, estimated at $3,000–$6,000. We will also be showcasing a variety of fine jade pieces and an array of fine, rare, and limited-edition Rolexes.

Whether you seek the timeless elegance of a diamond, or the striking appeal of a gemstone, there is something for every jewelry enthusiast in this sale. This auction is a must-attend for both fine jewelry and timepiece collectors. In search of a standout addition to your collection or a one-of-a-kind gift? This sale offers a stunning selection of exquisite and timeless treasures. Be sure to save the date and join us for an unforgettable event filled with elegance, style, and unmatched beauty.

Jewelry often reflects the time period in which it was created. The history of jewelry spans as far back as humanity itself, with evidence of ancient beads made from shells, bones, and teeth dating back 80,000–110,000 years.

Jewelry typically referred to as “ancient” is around 5,000–7,000 years old. Early civilizations crafted jewelry from locally sourced gemstones and metals, often obtained through extensive trade networks. Some scholars believe that the first written language developed through bead trading, as beads were among the first items used for trade, and people valued them for both their beauty and significance.

As archaeological discoveries have unearthed ancient tombs and artifacts, jewelry designs from past civilizations have been revived or reinterpreted in new styles. For example, the Etruscan Revival, Architectural Revival, and Egyptian Revival occurred at distinct points in history, between 1820–1850, 1870–1900, and 1920–1935.

Egyptian-inspired jewelry is particularly iconic, featuring recurring symbols such as scarabs, Horus, ankhs, pharaohs, and cartouches. These pieces often incorporated enamel, faience, and specific gemstones like lapis lazuli and turquoise. Later revivals continued to embrace these themes, though materials and techniques evolved based on the period’s available resources.

Jewelry periods are often categorized as Georgian, Victorian, Arts and Crafts, Edwardian, Belle Époque, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Retro, and Mid-century Modern, with each period having its own distinct characteristics that jewelry specialists use to identify and date pieces. Additionally, terms like “antique,” “vintage,” “estate,” and “period” are frequently used, though sometimes incorrectly.

• Ancient jewelry refers to items from long-extinct civilizations.
• Antique jewelry is at least 100 years old.
• Vintage jewelry falls between antique and contemporary, representing pieces from various past decades or eras.
• Estate jewelry refers to previously owned jewelry, often acquired from estates or second-hand sources, and is typically antique or vintage.
• Period jewelry refers to items that fit into a specific historical time frame (refer to the timeline).

When assigning a period to a piece of jewelry, a specialist considers more than just its appearance. The materials, cutting styles, metalworking techniques, and equipment used during the period of its creation all play a role in its classification. It’s not uncommon for a single piece to show influences from multiple periods, reflecting the transition between styles or combining elements from different times.

Conversely, a piece might have characteristics that suggest one period, but its materials or craftsmanship could align with another. These overlaps can result from factors like geography, war, resources, technological advancements, fashion trends, or even reproductions. Although we often categorize jewelry into specific periods, the timeline of history is always fluid, with styles blending and evolving. Ultimately, each civilization has sought ways to create and cherish adornments. One wonders: how will future historians view the jewelry of today?

For jewelry lovers, this auction is an extraordinary opportunity to acquire rare and exquisite pieces.

The Fine Jade & Holiday Jewelry Auction is a standout feature, showcasing a captivating collection of jade jewelry, ranging from intricately carved pendants and bracelets to elegant earrings and rings. Highlights of the sale include a pair of A-grade jadeite and platinum earrings, estimated at $20,000–$40,000, and a magnificent jadeite bead necklace, estimated at $25,000–$35,000.

In addition to the jade offerings, the sale also presents a stunning array of fine jewelry featuring diamonds, pearls, and colored gemstones. For watch collectors, Clars is offering two exceptional timepieces: a Rolex stainless steel Explorer II wristwatch, estimated at $7,000–$10,000, and a highly coveted Patek Philippe stainless steel Nautilus wristwatch, estimated at $80,000–$100,000. This selection is a must for those seeking to add to their collection or to find a special gift for the season.

Clars is thrilled to host our Exquisite Diamonds & Watches Auction on Thursday, September 19th, starting at 9:30 AM PDT. This exceptional sale will feature a stunning array of large, high-quality diamonds, signed jewelry, and rare watches.

Highlighting the diamond jewelry segment are several standout pieces, including a diamond and platinum brooch, estimated at $50,000–$70,000; a 3.36 carat diamond and fourteen-karat gold ring, estimated at $6,000–$8,000; and a diamond and 14k gold bracelet weighing a total of 15 carats, estimated at $3,500–$4,500.

Among the notable jewelry makers represented are David Webb and Cartier. Featured are a pair of David Webb diamond, black enamel, and 18k gold ear clips, estimated at $6,000–$8,000 and a pair of David Webb enamel and 18k gold Zebra ear clips, estimated at $5,000–$7,000.

In addition, the auction showcases a remarkable selection of timepieces. Leading this segment is a stainless steel Rolex ‘Submariner’ wristwatch, estimated at $7,500–$8,500; a diamond and 18k white gold Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso wristwatch, also estimated at $8,000–$12,000; a stainless steel Rolex Speedking wristwatch, estimated at $3,000–$5,000; a stainless steel Rolex Oyster Perpetual wristwatch, estimated at $3,000–$5,000; and an 18k gold Cartier Monaco wristwatch, estimated at $5,000–$7,000. The sale also includes a diverse range of additional timepieces spanning various decades, featuring rare and exotic models.

Clars is excited to present The Golden & Glamour Era Auction — featuring the jewelry collection of Hollywood actress, Joanna Barnes — on Thursday, May 16th, commencing at 10 AM PDT. This sale features an exquisite array of antique jewelry and signed pieces with exceptional provenance.

Joanna Barnes was a multifaceted talent, known as an author, newspaper columnist, and actress. Among her notable screen appearances are roles in the 1961 classic The Parent Trap, and, decades later, as the mother in Disney’s remake of the film. She graced both big and small screens with roles in productions like Home Before Dark, Spartacus, and The War Wagon. On television, she starred in series such as 21 Beacon Street, The Trials of O’Brien, and Dateline Hollywood, while also making memorable guest appearances on shows like The Millionaire, Mannix, Murder She Wrote, and Cheers. Joanna was a familiar face on early quiz programs and chat shows like What’s My Line, To Tell the Truth, and The Johnny Carson Show. Alongside her acting pursuits, she showcased her literary talent as an author and book reviewer for the Los Angeles Times, penning four novels: The Deceivers, Who is Carla Hart, Pastora, and Silverwood.

Joanna was admired and loved for her talents, her Intelligence, and her accomplishments. Of all her accolades and successes, one particular badge of honor remained close to her heart: her expulsion from the Boston Social Register as she became a professional actress.

At Clars Auctions, we are deeply honored to have been chosen as the exclusive venue to showcase the extraordinary collection of antique and signed jewelry belonging to the esteemed Joanna Barnes. Each item within this remarkable collection serves as a testament to Ms. Barnes’ impeccable taste and enduring legacy in the world of Hollywood glamour. From the delicate antique brooches to the intricate designs of her bracelets and dazzling sparkle of her earrings, every piece offers a captivating glimpse into Ms. Barnes’ journey from a budding ingenue to a revered icon of the silver screen.

What makes this collection truly special is the personal touch infused into every selection. With each piece curated by Ms. Barnes herself, there’s a profound sense of connection to her discerning eye and appreciation for the exquisite and beautifully crafted. This collection isn’t just about jewelry, it’s a reflection of Ms. Barnes’ passion for the finer things in life and her unwavering commitment to elegance and sophistication. As each item prepares to find new homes in the collections of discerning collectors worldwide, we are privileged to be a part of preserving and celebrating the enduring legacy of Joanna Barnes.

At the forefront of Ms. Barnes’ collection are sophisticated creations by renowned artisans such as Tiffany & Co. Among the highlights in the sale are an exquisite 18k gold Scorpio pendant (Estimate: $6,000–$8,000), a radiant citrine and 18k gold brooch (Estimate: $1,500–$2,500), a resplendent 18k gold bombe ring crafted by David Webb (Estimate: $1,000–$1,500), and an opulent 18k gold ‘elephant hair’ bangle bracelet from the esteemed house of Gucci (Estimate: $1,200–$1,800). Furthermore, the auction presents a meticulously curated array of exceptional antique pieces, including an enchanting antique aquamarine, diamond, and 14k gold brooch (Estimate: $2,000–$3,000) and a captivating antique enamel and 14k gold link necklace (Estimate: $2,000–$3,000).

Complementing the jewelry auction is a collection of luxury bags, featuring Judith Leiber Couture minaudiere clutches and Louis Vuitton monogram luggage.

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art & Asian Auction on March 22nd and our Warehouse Auction on March 23rd.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Friday sale will feature an exquisite array of European and American furniture and decorative arts, including a Tiffany Studios lamp, a Chinese pattern desk set, an English Chinoiserie tall case clock, American Classical Revival cabinets, antique carpets, Egyptian canopic jars, fine English silver, Baccarat glass, Flora Danica, and Herend porcelain.

Additionally, we are proud to present a collection of contemporary Inuit stone carvings by esteemed artists, such as Aquangajuk Shaa, Toonoo Sharky, and Nuna Parr.

Fine Art

This March at Clars, we are offering a selection of fine paintings and sculptures for the collector with sophisticated and traditional tastes. First is an oil on canvas painting by English equestrian painter, John Frederick Herring Sr., depicting a jockey atop a racehorse. Herring, who was at first at sign painter and coachman by trade, was a successful painter of racehorses and jockeys. He became a favorite of Queen Victoria — who patronized his work for the last 20 years of his life.

Second, we present an oil on canvas by French-Polish painter, Adam Styka. Styka was known for his Orientalist work showcasing scenes of North Africa as well as portrayals of the American West. The painting at Clars this month depicts a man riding a donkey while guiding another, both standing in shallow water with a mountainous desert landscape behind them.

A third highlight is an oil on canvas by French painter, Jules Cheret. Cheret was known in his time as an icon of Belle Epoque poster art. His paintings show influence from the Rococo masters of the 18th century, particularly Jean-Honore Fragonard, in the use of pastel colors and garden scenery. The painting for offer at Clars is titled Dejeuner sur L’Herbe and depicts a group of picnickers, including a joyful woman in a pink dress and a man who appears to be a friendly spectral onlooker, spending the day enjoying a lush garden.

Lastly, we offer a bronze sculpture by Navajo artist, R.C. Gorman. This original sculpture depicts a mother in repose, holding her swaddled baby. The woman’s face shows a tranquil expression as she appears to sing a lullaby to her child who sleeps peacefully in her arms.

Asian Art

In the upcoming March auction, Clars’ Asian Art department is proud to present these exceptional highlights from located collections. First is a magnificent Rattanakosin Kingdom gilt bronze figure of Buddha under Naga — a masterful representation of Thai Buddhist art. This exquisite piece captures the serene moment of the Buddha in meditation, shielded by the protective embrace of the Naga (serpent). The intricate detailing, spiritual symbolism, and lustrous gold embellishment of this statue are hallmark features of the Rattanakosin period, renowned for its artistic brilliance. This statue is not merely an artifact; it is a testament to the devoutness and the exceptional skill of Rattanakosin artisans in bronze craftsmanship.

Complementing the spiritual allure of the Buddhist statue is a Chinese huanghuali coffer — a fine example of Ming dynasty style furniture. Crafted from the highly coveted huanghuali rosewood — known for its striking grain, aromatic scent, and remarkable durability — this table embodies the luxury and refined taste of its era. Its design, characterized by elegance and simplicity, reflects the core aesthetic values of harmony and balance in Chinese art and philosophy. More than a piece of furniture, this coffer offers a glimpse into life and culture in the past.

The Warehouse Auction

Clars’ Warehouse Auction is set to showcase an eclectic range of art, prints and photographs. Each month we select paintings, prints, and sculptures in diverse styles — from all over the world — to offer with accessible estimates.

The furniture section will offer antique, vintage and contemporary furniture and decorative arts, including Arthur Court furniture, a collection of elephants, Studio art glass and pottery, perfume bottles, porcelain dinner services, stemware, clocks, mirrors, and carpets. The Asian Art Department presents a meticulously curated collection in our March Warehouse auction, spanning Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and various decorative pieces. Additionally, our selection includes decorative Chinese furniture, jade and hardstone carvings, and ceramics from various periods.

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on February 16th and our Warehouse Sale on February 17th. These sales will offer a splendid variety pieces that any collector would treasure.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Furniture & Decorative Arts section of the February Gallery auction offers a diverse collection of antiques and contemporary items, ranging from Regency swan consoles and antique Persian and Chinese carpets to modern furniture icons by Hans Wegner and Percival Lafer.

Decorations include sterling silver, French bronze decorations, Meissen porcelain, and a menagerie of Herend animals. A collection of Santa Clara blackware vessels and a vibrant spectrum of contemporary art glass and studio ceramics will also be available.

Fine Art

Fine Art will present an exciting selection of artwork this February. Highlights include works by important California artists, such as Elmer Bischoff and Sam Francis, as well as an impressive sculpture by Italian-American artist, Harry Bertoia.

First, we offer a painting by Bay Area Figurative Movement artist, Bischoff. A Berkeley native, Bischoff studied art and taught at a Sacramento high school until he joined the United States Air Force in World War II. After the destruction of the war, the prevailing art style in the United States was Abstract Expressionism, and Bischoff moved in circles with avant-garde painters upon his return to the San Francisco area.

After joining the faculty of the California School of Fine Arts (now the San Francisco Art Institute), Bischoff worked in close company with like-minded artists, including Karl Kasten, Richard Diebenkorn, and David Park. Diebenkorn and Park joined Bischoff in forming the “First Generation” of Bay Area Figurative artists. This group transitioned away from working in the mode of Abstract Expressionism and embraced a figurative style.

Bischoff’s work in this month’s sale, titled Cityscape — and depicting just that, shows a scene that could be taken from several areas around the San Francisco Bay, with the rooftops of buildings receding down and peeping over the tops of hills. Although Bischoff and his colleagues championed figuration in their artwork, we can still see the echo of abstraction in the bold colors and emotive brushwork of this painting.

An artist whose work remained solidly in the realm of Abstract Expressionism throughout his career was San Mateo-born, Sam Francis. Like Bischoff, Francis served in the Air Force during World War II. After his return to California, he was visited by artist David Park, who encouraged Francis to express himself artistically. Inspired by artists like Mark Rothko and Helen Frankenthaler, Francis’ work was characterized by large dollops of vivid color, smeared into both geometric and organic forms. Rather than remaining in California, Francis travelled globally, exhibiting and working in Paris, Mexico, New York, and Tokyo, where his exposure to Zen Buddhism greatly influenced his work.

Francis eventually landed in Los Angeles and became a prolific printmaker. The Francis piece to be offered at Clars this month is a striking monotype featuring woodcut and oil pigment elements. Viewers will note the painterly elements of the print, translated directly from Francis’ earlier paintings, as well as the solid color structure of the composition. Francis often favored primary colors in his work, particularly blue, and this piece is no exception. These components designate this print as an exemplary Sam Francis creation.

Finally, we will offer a large-scale sculpture by Harry Bertoia. Born in Pordenone, Italy, Bertoia travelled to the United States at age 15 to study jewelry making and metalwork. His talent in these areas quickly led to commissions from figures as prominent in the arts as Charles Eames and Edmund Bacon. After further studies in welding, Bertoia experimented with furniture design, and developed his most notable creation — the sound sculpture. Bertoia fashioned several of these sculptures, comprised of brass and beryllium copper rods affixed to a flat surface, and used them to record a series of 11 albums, all titled Sonambient.

Although Bertoia eventually made dozens of these sculptures, each one is completely unique, producing different tones based on the configuration of rods, metal composition, and the shape of the sculpture. These multi-functional artworks can be found in prominent collections nationwide, including the Brooklyn Museum in New York and the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C. The sounding sculpture at Clars this month consists of 16 vertical rods that are minimalist and modern in appearance, yet ring out with an expressive timbre. Also featured this month are attractive works by Louise Nevelson, Frank Stella, Roy Lichtenstein, and much more.

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department at Clars is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry, in their upcoming February 16th sale.

This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points. Some of these highlights include a diamond ring, featuring a diamond approximately 1.50 carats, estimated at $3,000–$5,000; and a diamond and 14k gold bracelet, estimated at $4,000–$6,000. There will also be a colorful gemstone selection available, including a pink tourmaline and 14k white gold ring, estimated at $2,000–$3,000; and a cultured South Sea pearl, diamond and 14k white gold ring, estimated at $800–$1,200. Other wearable pieces include a collection of Trifari costume jewelry, estimated at $200–$300. Complementing the auction will be a selection classic timepieces, including an Omega Constellation 18k gold watch, estimated at $3,000–$5,000.

Asian Art

This February, Clars’ Asian Art department will offer a diverse array of Asian masterpieces that span several cultures and historical periods.

A key feature in the sale is the collection of jade carvings, crafted in the 18th-century Mughal Style. These pieces, including intricately designed teapots and incense boxes, blend Indian and Chinese artistry, highlighting the rich Mughal influence.

Another notable highlight is the Ming Dynasty fahua ceramic figure of Luohan. This piece, characterized by the vibrant and intricate fahua glazing technique, reflects the religious significance and artistic depth of the Ming Dynasty.

We will be offering additional highlights from the Qing Dynasty, including a Chinese famille rose and underglaze blue bird and flower hu-form vase, which showcases intricate and colorful depictions of avian and floral motifs. A Chinese enameled 100 deer hu-form vase is another masterpiece available that features a multitude of deer in various stances — symbolizing longevity and prosperity. Lastly, the Chinese jade and hardstone embellished lacquer wall panel up for auction is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship, combining luxurious materials in a harmonious design.

Also to be featured is a remarkable late 19th century Japanese inlaid bronze koro and cover, crafted by Ohashi San’emon (1851–1895) during the Meiji period. Measuring 14.125″ in height, this piece is distinguished by a pixiu finial and is elaborately decorated with auspicious symbols in copper, silver, and gilt. The inscription, “Dai Nihon Ohashi Sam’emon seizo,” on the underside further authenticates its origin.

Clars is excited to present our Fine European Furniture & Decorative Arts Auction on January 18th, our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on January 19th, our European Décor Auction on January 20th, and our Fine & Rare Wines Auction on January 22nd. These sales will offer a splendid variety of art, jewelry, Asian works, furniture, decorative arts and fine wines.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Fine European Furniture and Decorative Arts Auction will present a timeless collection of fine furniture from the Baroque period and fine revival styles. Discover gilt cut glass stemware and luxury porcelain dinner services that are being offered.

This auction also presents a rare opportunity to acquire exceptional pieces from the private collection of Stephen and Lynette Schwartz of Steven’s Antiques. From formal French furniture and 19th century bronze sculptures, to ormolu mounted marble clocks and KPM porcelain plaques, each item reflects the Schwartz’s discerning taste and signature blend of European sophistication.

In our January 19th sale, the Furniture & Decorative Arts department will being offering a collection of ethnographic and Native American artifacts, fine silver including a New York Federal coin silver tea service, and a variety of 18th, 19th and 20th century furniture.

Our European Décor sale on January 20th will offer an eclectic collection of antique and contemporary furniture and decorative arts, including Native American pottery and tribal design, sterling and silver plate articles, Studio art pottery, and glass including a collection of Michael Nourot glass, mirrors and carpets.

Fine Art

This January at Clars we are pleased to offer a selection of fine paintings, prints, and sculptures to brighten gray winter days. First up are two springtime scenes from American Impressionist, Paul Sawyier. Sawyier is known today as one of Kentucky’s most renowned artists, beginning his career studying under William Merritt Chase in New York City, and displaying several works at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. The two paintings by Sawyier at Clars this month, both oils on panel, are garden scenes showing classical-style sculptures amid pastel flowers in full bloom.

Secondly, we present a watercolor by painter, James Taylor Harwood. Born in the territory of Utah, Harwood honed his artistic skills at the California School of Design in San Francisco before embarking on an extended trip to Paris, France with fellow painter and friend, Guy Rose. During this time, he exhibited at the Paris Salon — becoming the first artist from Utah to do so, four years before the territory became a state. The watercolor in this month’s sale was painted after Harwood’s return to the United States, during a period in which his style hovered between Academicism and Impressionism. It depicts the peaceful scene of a birch tree leaning over a stream shaded by lush green foliage.

Finally, we offer a charming early work by Pennsylvania painter, Fern Isabel Coppedge. Coppedge was born in Illinois but spent most of her life in Pennsylvania, becoming associated with the Pennsylvania Impressionism movement which also included artists such as George Sotter and Walter Emerson Baum. After studying in several major American cities, Coppedge returned to the Philadelphia area and found success through her association with the Philadelphia Ten, a group of women artists who exhibited together with the aim of elevating female-made art above the level of hobby and craft. The oil on canvas board painting in January’s sale depicts a cottage in Bucks County, rendered in an Impressionist style with bright, folk art inspired colors. Also included in January’s auction are paintings by Edward Henry Potthast and James Weeks, a lithograph by Robert Riggs, and much more.

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department at Clars Auctions is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry, and a curated collection of gemstones in their upcoming January 19th sale.

This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points. Some of these highlights include a rutilated quartz and 18k gold dress set, French, from the estate of internationally recognized textile artist and designer, Mr. Julian Tomchin, San Francisco, CA; a black cultured baroque pearl and 18k gold ring by Gumps, estimated at $700–$1,000; and a 14k gold bracelet, estimated at $300–$500. A vast assortment of gemstones from the estate of a reputable gemstone dealer will also be presented for collectors and gem lovers.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department will feature a collection of 19th century Chinese export porcelain articles from the Nathan Hale family, including a partial set featuring the butterfly pattern and various pairs of famille verte guardian lions and beasts. Also on offer is East Coast collection of Chinese ceramics from the Song to Qing dynasties.

Fine & Rare Wines

A few of the highlights in our Winter Fine & Rare Wines auction include a 1997 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti La Tâche Grand Cru Monopole, a 1992 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Monopole, and a 1991 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Richebourg Grand Cru. The sale will also feature a variety of fine French Bordeaux, Châteauneuf-du-Papes, and Burgundies from the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s.