Elegant Jewels and the Joy in Design | Classic Chicago Magazine

By Judy Carmack Bross

Lot 50, a pair of JAR multi-gem colored diamond and diamond earrings at the upcoming Christie’s auction from the collection of a discerning Chicagoan

“What a privilege it has been to work with two cherished families to bring these special collections to market this season and, more importantly, to celebrate the legacies of two dynamic women who worked tirelessly over many decades on behalf of civic and cultural institutions throughout the city. These women were role models to many of us who knew them and admired them for their commitment to Chicago, passion for the arts, and philanthropic activism. Like the legendary makers of their jewels, these ladies brought beauty into the world.”– Cathy Busch, Deputy Chairman, Managing Director, Christie’s Midwest.

Of special interest to Chicagoans who observed the elegance and efforts for the arts of two extraordinary women whom our city lost this year, the Christie’s auction—live in New York on December 10 and online now–is an opportunity to remember how lovely they looked in these pieces that paid tribute to their glamor and great taste.

Lot 126, a diamond and emerald necklace from the collection of Maureen Smith

Jackie DiSante, Head of Sale, Christie’s Jewels, told a small group of family and friends recently at a preview of the upcoming live auction and sale:

“Both from the Chicago area, Elegant Jewels from the Collection of Maureen Dwyer Smith and Joy in Design: Property from an Important Private Collection represent some of the most sought-after jewels on the market today – expertly crafted, boldly conceived, and celebrated for vibrant color combinations and effortless wearability. Maureen’s collection, featuring standout creations by Verdura, Belperron, Tony Duquette, and many others, showcases her exceptional taste and love of jewelry. Joy in Design further distinguishes itself with three exceptional JAR masterpieces, never before seen at auction and highly coveted by collectors.”

Lot 51

Lot 51, a pair of JAR Garnet “orange peel” brooches from a Chicago collection. Joel Arthur Rosenthal (JAR) is known for his technical artistry and takes inspiration from the natural world. A Harvard graduate in art history and philosophy, he was self-taught in jewelry design. His Parisien boutique on the Place Vendome has been an enticing pavilion for enlightened collectors.

“The auction also features a glamorous array of pieces featuring names such as Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, Rockefeller, Astor, and Wynn,” Busch told us. At auction is a Bulgari colored diamond and diamond ring that Eddie Fisher gave to Taylor, surely the star with the most dazzling jewelry, on her 30th birthday.

The Rockefeller Kashmir ring, an Art Deco sugarloaf named for the harsh region at the top of the Himalayas where the finest sapphires were once found, is a highlight of the show.

Maureen Smith, with her husband E.B. wearing the magnificent diamond and emerald pendant necklace at the Christie’s auction

The catalogue notes that Maureen Smith was a steady force in Chicago civic accomplishment and loved her association with the Joffrey Ballet. Both Maureen and her husband E.B. cultivated collections which express their love of art and history.