Property from the Collection of Joanna Barnes

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Fine Jewelry

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.


<b>Clockwise:</b> Tiffany & Co., a pair of turquoise, sapphire and 18k gold ear-clips. <b>Estimate: $800–$1,200</b>; An antique enamel and 14k gold link necklace. <b><nobr>Estimate: $2,000–$3,000</nobr></b>; An antique aquamarine, diamond and 14k gold brooch. <b><nobr>Estimate: $2,000–$3,000</nobr></b>; Tiffany & Co., an 18k gold Scorpio pendant. <b><nobr>Estimate: $6,000–$8,000</nobr></b>.
Clockwise: Tiffany & Co., a pair of turquoise, sapphire and 18k gold ear-clips. Estimate: $800–$1,200; An antique enamel and 14k gold link necklace. Estimate: $2,000–$3,000; An antique aquamarine, diamond and 14k gold brooch. Estimate: $2,000–$3,000; Tiffany & Co., an 18k gold Scorpio pendant. Estimate: $6,000–$8,000.

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 Barnes.
Joanna Barnes.

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.


Gucci, an 18k gold ‘elephant hair’ bangle bracelet.
Gucci, an 18k gold ‘elephant hair’ bangle bracelet.
Estimate: $1,200–$1,800

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.


Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger, a pair of enamel and 18k gold ear clips.
Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger, a pair of enamel and 18k gold ear clips.
Estimate: $800–$1,200

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.


Tiffany & Co., a citrine and 18k gold brooch.
Tiffany & Co., a citrine and 18k gold brooch.
Estimate: $1,500–$2,500

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).


A Judith Leiber Couture Martini Glass Cocktail minaudiere clutch bag.
A Judith Leiber Couture Martini Glass Cocktail minaudiere clutch bag.
Estimate: $1,200–$1,500

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

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