celebrating the figural in jewelry design

Figural jewellery can be defined as jewellery that showcases figurative design depicting either animals or humans. Examples of figural jewellery have been found as early as 3000 BC, originating from ancient Egypt, Rome, China, Greece and South America among others. Particularly popular in 15th century France and then revived in 1800 and now in contemporary jewellery, figural works can be considered wearable sculptural art. They’re most often seen in the form of rings and brooches.
Presented below are some of the most important pieces of figural jewellery lots in AstaGuru’s upcoming auction.
Lot no. 15 A Vintage Moonstone Intaglio Brooch![]() |
A finely made brooch set with old-cut diamonds, calibre cut sapphires and natural saltwater pearls. The central moonstone intaglio carving depicts a cherub and a woman. Intaglio refers to the technique of carving out symbols and motifs in gemstones to create hollow impressions. This technique is the opposite of the popular cameos, which were popular during the Victorian era. |
| An impressive stickpin set with an important natural saltwater pearl drop. This pearl is wrapped with an intricately and exquisitely made serpent set with old-cut diamonds and emeralds. Such pieces are rare to come by as pearls as important as this were hardly used for stickpins and are indicative that the piece was commissioned by a true connoisseur of jewellery. |
Lot no. 21 A Natural Pearl & Diamond Stickpin
|
Lot no. 35 A Frog Motif Brooch

A unique frog motif brooch in pave ´ set diamonds and emeralds with ruby cabochons for eyes. This type of brooch was typically worn by men during the 1950s. Frogs are said to symbolise transformation and bring with them prosperity and good fortune.
Scheduled on October 20-21, 2022, AstaGuru’s upcoming Jewellery, Silver, And Timepieces auction will present a different kind of limited edition with 125 lots. The jewellery curation pays an ode to the rich history of the modern jewellery traditions. It brings the legacy of the Art Deco era in the limelight with several lots inspired by the influential movement that brought a revolution in jewellery tastes and preferences. The large selection is executed with some of the finest jewellery pieces set with precious gemstones. Please visit our website to view the entire catalogue and register for bidding.
About AstaGuru
AstaGuru was conceptualised in the year 2008 with the sole purpose of creating a safe and secure platform to conduct online auctions for Indian, Contemporary & Modern Art. The word AstaGuru is a thoughtful conjugation of ‘Asta’, of Italian origin, which translates to auction and ‘Guru’, Sanskrit connotation for ‘master’ that indicates our distinguished finesse at being the leaders of auctioneering art and artefacts in India as well as globally. With the world melting into one harmonious digital cosmos, AstaGuru has strived to successfully bridge the gap between prospective buyers and consignors by transcending the limitations of live auctions. AstaGuru imparts effortless transparency to the process of acquiring and selling art and rare collectables. Our diverse portfolio includes categories such as Jewellery & Fine Silver, Timepieces, Textiles, Celebrity Memorabilia, Rare Books, Numismatic, Philately and Vintage Cars. AstaGuru’s mobile app enables our esteemed bidders to follow and participate in our auctions seamlessly, and in real-time.
For more information, please log on to www.astaguru.com



