An Art Deco diamond rose brooch, by Lacloche

An Art Deco diamond rose brooch, by Lacloche. photo: Christie's Images Ltd 2010

Designed as a pavé-set diamond sculpted rose, extending single and circular-cut diamond tapered leaves and buds, within a single and baguette-cut diamond rectangular frame, mounted in platinum and 18k white gold, circa 1925, with French assay mark Signed Lacloche, Paris - Est. $20,000 - $30,000 . Price Realized $25,000

Notes: This elegant pavé-set diamond rose brooch demonstrates the superior style and craftsmanship of Lacloche Frères, a small family firm that once rivalled the likes of Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels. Founded in 1875 in Madrid by four brothers and active until the 1950s, the maison reached its height of popularity between the two World Wars, with a much admired appearance at the Salon des Arts Décoratifs of 1925. Produced in limited production, the firm's creations are highly sought-after collectibles. An elegant example of the Lacloche Frères aesthetic, this skillfully rendered pavé-set diamond rose brooch is simultaneously striking yet delicate.

Christie's. Jewels: The New York Sale, with The Catherine the Great Emerald Brooch and The Emperor Maximilian Diamond. 22 April 2010. New York, Rockefeller Plaza www.christies.com