Gallery of Rare Jewels | David Humphrey Period Jewels

Ming Dynasty Gold Dragon

A rare masterpiece of Ming Dynasty (1368-1644} gold filigree formed as a rampant dragon dress ornament. Adorned with artistic charm, note the details of the dragon's features; undulating floral elements, complete with the now vacant, centered cup mount once occupied by a pearl; the "pearl of wisdom" 7.75 grams of 18-22K natural gold. 2 1/4 inches Pictured also is the verso of the ornament.

Edwardian Diamond, Natural Pearl Brooch

International concert pianist, Buenaventura Galvez de Reyes, known as La Galvez, is my great grandmother. She is mentioned in Dr. Jose Rizal's late 19th century novel, Noli Me Tangere; long considered as their nation's literary masterpiece by the Filipino people. This brooch was hers, given to her by my Great Grandfather, Jose Reyes who founded the first inter-island shipping company in the Philippines.

A superb 18K gold and Jadeite, Dragon Buckle

This amazing natural color, untreated jadeite and 18K gold buckle shows two dragons chasing after the pearl of wisdom. It measures 2.75 x 1.75 inches
Circa mid 20th century. Signed Loong Shing.

Cartier Silver and Gold Cigarette Case/Lighter

A vintage sterling silver and 14K gold cigarette case/lighter by Cartier.Circa 1950's. 3 7/16 x 3 x 11/16 inches

Vintage Turquoise Silver Cuff

A strong vintage, unsigned Navajo, blackened sterling silver cuff, bezel set with 21 natural turquoise cabochons with decorated, scalloped borders and ground. 1 3/4 inches tapering to 1 3/8 inches wide. 7 inch outside length. 5 1/2 inch inside length. 141.69 grams

Gold bangle - Indonesia - 19th century

Worthy of any museum's collection, this rare bangle is an example of the masterful work done by the 19th century South Asian goldsmiths. The applied wire work and the red staining of the gold are quintessential elements found in early Indonesian jewels. A metallic bead contained within the bangle rolls around as the wearer strolls, making a delightful sound, thus alerting others of her arrival.

Rare 18th century Pinya crucifix - Philippines

Note the devotional red staining to the gold by the South East Asian goldsmith.

"The baroque splendor of the very rare tinik (thorn) or pinya (pineapple) cross is a Portuguese synthesis of the Javanese style of the late Majapahit period." Ramon N. Villegas from his book KAYAMANAN: The Philippine Jewelry Tradition

Precolumbian Gold Breast Plate

The high karat Precolumbian gold breast plate from Veraguas, W. Panama dates to the 15th c. and is of hammered native gold. The animal depicted is most likely the Panamanian crocodile or Largarto Aguja.
13.06 grams 22 karat+ gold
2 11/16" diameter
Provenance: Dale Flores Collection

15K and 18K Assyrian Revival Brooch circa 1845

Inspired by the archeological discoveries at Ninevah in 1842, jewelry design of the period reflected the public fascination for the exotic images of ancient Assyria such as this depiction of a deified King Arshubanipal. The verso reveals a glass compartment, typical of Victorian brooches, into which, a sentimental locket of hair could be inserted and worn close to the heart.

Belle Epoque Brooch

Belle Epoque brooch by J.E. Caldwell. Platinum, diamonds, emeralds and pearls circa 1900.

French Court Ring

French court ring of diamonds (approx. 5.00 cts) silver, 18K gold, and enamel. Paris circa 1838.

Belle Epoque Necklace

A Belle Epoque silver, diamond and 18K gold necklace fully signed by Mellerio dits Meller Paris circa 1890. This wonderfully feminine necklace transforms into two bracelets with ease.

“A large and well established family originating from Lombardy and resident in France since the time of King Francois I. Documented as goldsmiths from 1613." *

Emperor Napolean III was a constant customer from 1853 and Queen Isabella of Spain was also a customer. French nobility and aristocrats from throughout the Continent were regular customers of this Maison of renown; with salons in Paris, Biarritz, Baden-Baden and Madrid.