Natural vs Synthetic Diamonds
Diamonds are highly prized gemstones that have been valued for centuries for their beauty, quality, durability, rarity and significance. However, navigating the diamond market can be complex for buyers, as it involves diverse factors such as varying levels of quality, pricing, and certifications that may not always be transparent. One challenge can be understanding the differences between purchasing natural diamonds and synthetic diamonds.
Fluorescence in Diamonds
Fluorescence is a common phenomenon found in diamonds that is often described as the ability of a diamond to emit a visible light when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is caused by the presence of certain elements within the diamond's crystal structure, such as nitrogen or vacancies in the crystal lattice.
7 tips for buying luxury diamonds, Swiss watches and designer bags at auction
If luxury is what you seek, but the retail price is out of your reach, then buying from auction might just be the solution for you. It is the perfect opportunity to save money without compromising on quality.
We all know you can buy art, cars and houses at auction, but did you know you can also buy luxury items like a a Hermès Birkin 35, Omega Seamaster watch, Cartier Love Bracelet - even a Tiffany and Co diamond ring. All these items and more are available right now at online auction houses, but there are a few tips you should know first.
Why more Australians are buying Fine Jewellery and Designer Bags at Auction
With the forced shift to online sales due to Covid-19 restrictions, many auction houses are reaping the benefits, with an increased focus on luxury items.
There are a few theories as to why, but most can agree that customers simply aren't travelling and therefore those budgets are being spent on buying nice things for themselves - and what better way to do that than with a luxury piece of fine jewellery or a designer bag.
Why should you buy a Swiss watch at auction?
The luxury watch market is booming thanks to an increase in online watch information and collector sites, coupled with the rise in young watch enthusiasts flashing their Swiss statuses on social media - and none more so than the pre-loved sector.
Industry expert, Ari Taibel, Director of First State Auctions says “Demand for premium pre-owned Swiss watches is greater than experienced in the past 30 years”.
Whether you are an old timer or new watch enthusiast, if you’re looking to buy a luxury watch, it’s never been a better time. Since Covid-19, many traditional auction houses have transformed into contemporary, digital first organisations.
The Sherro Family Collection
First State Auctions is honoured to auction Important Jewels from the Sherro Family Collection. The amazing pieces are offered as a feature in this week's Exquisite Fine Jewellery, Designer Bag & Swiss Watch auction. Nadia Janette Marie Sherro – emanating from Egypt, was a flamboyant socialite and the daughter of an Egyptian financier. She married a distinguished Adjutant to the Commander & Chief of the Egyptian Navy and set the social scene alight. Going under the reputation of "The Sophia Loren of Alexandria", Nadia was often seen frequenting the best establishments of Egyptian high society.
Collectible watches: what to look for
Owning a vintage Rolex is a joy and potentially a smart investment, but how should you go about buying collectible watches?
In recent years the collectible watch market has been buoyant. Some timepieces with historic value have gone for breathtaking prices. The actor Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona went under the hammer for USD$15.5 million. His wife had reportedly bought it in the 1960s for about $250.
