Emerald and diamond brooch, David Webb, 1970s

Emerald and diamond brooch, David Webb, 1970s

Designed as a stylised Maltese cross, the cabochon pear-shaped emerald set within a border of pear-shaped diamonds, to the single- and brilliant-cut stone surrounds, mounted in platinum, signed David Webb. Est. 60,000—95,000 CHF

NOTE: The Maltese cross or cross of St John motif is named after the white cross worn as an emblem on the black robes of the Knights Hospitallers, a military and religious order that grew from the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem and was established in the 11th century to care for pilgrims to the Holy Land. Its headquarters later moved to the island of Malta. This very special cross with indented terminals was a successful design used by some New York-based jewellers like Fulco di Verdura and David Webb (1926-1975) during the 1940-1970 period. Webb produced a bold version of it in many different sizes and colours. He founded the company along with his partner Nina Silberstein in the late 1940s and eventually moved to new premises at 7, East 57th Street in New York City. Webb was especially known for creating colourful animal bangles and his innovative use of enamel. He also designed unique pieces which were given as gifts of state by several White House administrations, including those of Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon.

Sotheby's. Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels And A Celebration of Taste and , Magnificent Jewels from a Private Collection. 12 May 09. Geneva www.sothebys.com photo courtesy Sotheby's

Comments

[Javier]

And now you can find David Webb(TM) jewelry online at www.deFaura.com. deFaura, Inc. has partnered with David Webb, Inc. to offer all their inventory online. This is a great opportunity for those who cannot visit the stores in New York or Beverly Hills. They will start soon a monthly online auction of authenticated David Webb(TM) pieces. deFaura will donate 10% of net profits to children betterment and environmental programs.