Sometimes, more is more. Over-the-top in the very best way, David Webb does statement jewelry like no other. The company has been in continuous operation since 1948, when the 23-year-old self-taught jeweler first opened its headquarters just off Fifth Avenue in New York. The pieces are often either dripping with diamonds, enameled in bold, saturated hues, or of such oversized proportions that wearing them approaches a strength training exercise. Not infrequently, they are all of the above. Given the aesthetic David Webb has cultivated from the beginning, it’s not surprising that this design house’s clients have included many lovers of all things bold, from Elizabeth Taylor to Beyoncé. With such a strong following and more limited production than, say Cartier or Tiffany, Webb’s highly sought after creations can be challenging to find in the secondary market of estate jewelry.
We are pleased to be offering more than 30 covetable David Webb fine jewelry pieces in the upcoming Holiday Jewelry Signature Auction on December 5th in Dallas. Among the highlights of the session are two impressive bracelets: one in gold and platinum featuring a large openwork jadeite plaque carved in an organic form and accented with diamonds and South Sea pearls, the other a heavy link style set with more than 10 carats of diamonds.
Lot 54334 Jadeite Jade, Diamond, South Sea Cultured Pearl, Sapphire, Platinum, Gold Bracelet, David Webb
Property from the Patricia Rypinski Collection
Estimate: $20,000 – 30,000
Lot 54337 Diamond, Platinum-Topped Gold Bracelet, David Webb
Property from the Patricia Rypinski Collection
Estimate: $15,000 – 20,000
The designs often play with eye-catching dimension – heavy sugarloaf cabochons that jump out of their settings, stones carved in flutes, or gold beading coming through enamel. In addition to strong geometric forms – the designer has long had a penchant for animal motifs – and an apparent preference for frogs, snakes, and leopards. We’re glad to offer several examples of Webb’s beloved enameled critters, including several brooches and rings.
A collection of David Webb brooches and rings from Heritage Auctions’ December 5th Holiday Jewelry Signature Auction
Lot 54002 Ruby, Enamel, Gold Brooch, David Webb.
Estimate: $6,000 – 8,000
Lot 54038 Diamond, Ruby, Enamel, Platinum, Gold Brooch, David Webb.
Estimate: $4,000 – 6,000
Lot 54011 Diamond, Enamel, Gold Brooches, David Webb.
Estimate: $10,000 – 20,000
Lot 54024 Diamond, Enamel, Gold Ring, David Webb.
Estimate: $4,000 – 6,000
Lot 54046 Diamond, Enamel, Gold Ring, David Webb.
Estimate: $4,000 – 6,000
Lots from the David Webb session can be found here and all inquiries directed to Jessica Dubroc here.