18 Karat Gold, Platinum, Diamond, Coral and Enamel Strawberry Bracelet, Donald Claflin for Tiffany & Co., Circa 1970

The textured gold vines supporting carved coral strawberries studded with gold seeds, accented by flowers and leaves set with round diamonds weighing approximately 9.00 carats, some leaves applied with translucent green enamel, length 6¾ inches, signed Tiffany & Co.

As seen in the catalogue illustration, several gold seeds are missing. (The cost of replacing the missing gold seeds is approximately $2200; Sotheby's will facilitate the repair at the request of the successful bidder). Minor enamel loss to one leaf. In otherwise good condition with surface wear to the heavily textured gold. The coral is medium orangy red and presents an even distribution of color, more orangy red than shown in the printed catalogue. With minute veining, minor chipping and cracking, and light soiling around some of the gold seeds. The diamonds are approximately E-G color, VVS-VS clarity. Fitted with two safety clasps.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Illustrated in Tiffany's 150 Years, by John Loring, p. 168; and in Tiffany Style: 170 Years of Design, by John Loring, p. 202.

Potential bidders who intend to export this lot are advised that certain permits are required for export.  If you are interested in this lot, please contact the Jewelry Department before bidding.

One of the most innovative jewelry designers of the last century, Donald Claflin got his start in the jewelry business while working for David Webb. In 1965 he left to join Tiffany & Co. where, along with Jean Schlumberger, he became part of a team destined to take American jewelry design in a new direction.

Claflin encouraged his clients to break with tradition and his designs were an immediate hit with a new generation of jewelry collectors. Among his most enduring creations are whimsical characters from children's storybooks, fantasy animals, Zodiac figures and even Chinese acrobats. The jewels were rendered in mixtures of precious and semi-precious stones along with colorful enamels in contrasting textures.

Nature was a constant source of inspiration for Claflin who remarked that he found it to be "an endless source of renewal."  In 1968 he began a series of strawberry jewels that were to become among his most iconic creations. His keen observation of nature is evident in every element from the gold seeds in the coral strawberries to the twisting movement of the fruit-bearing vines.

In ancient times, the strawberry was the symbol of Venus, the goddess of love and came to represent goodness, purity and sensuality due to its delectable taste and fragrance.