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#WorthPoint #AuctionInsights #AntiqueTreasures #FineJewelry #DiamondRing #SapphirePendant #HenkleHarris #VintageFurniture #ArtCollecting #MargaretThomson #AuctionTrends #LuxuryFinds #Collectibles #InvestmentPieces #AntiqueMarket
Will Seippel, CEO of WorthPoint, has a keen eye for unique and valuable items sold at auctions by WorthPoint’s Industry Partners. By sharing his insights on some of his favorite recent sales, Seippel offers valuable lessons on buying and selling trends in the antiques and collectibles industry. His expertise helps empower collectors and dealers to make informed decisions. Here’s a summary of his thoughts on a few standout sales.
A Ring That Will Get You a Yes
Freeman’s Hindman, a renowned auction house in Chicago, continues to impress with its curated sales of fine jewelry and antiques. Seippel highlights the Aletto Brothers 9.01 Carat Diamond Ring, a stunning piece featuring a massive cushion-cut diamond flanked by two half-moon diamonds. With a G color and VS2 clarity, this ring exudes opulence and quality. While its $229,100 price tag was out of reach for Seippel, he notes that it’s the kind of piece that could make any proposal unforgettable.
Another standout from Hindman’s sale was a Ceylon Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire, and Diamond Pendant. The centerpiece of this pendant is a striking 45-carat blue sapphire, complemented by yellow sapphires and diamonds. The vivid color contrast and sheer presence of the piece made it a showstopper, selling for $114,800. Seippel emphasizes that such pieces are not just jewelry but investments in rarity and beauty, each with its own story.
These remarkable items are part of the Shawver Art Collection Trust, a testament to Pat Shawver’s passion for gemstones and her extensive travels. The collection reflects a deep appreciation for nature’s most precious gifts, blending luxury with history. Seippel looks forward to seeing what Hindman offers next, hoping to snag a piece before it’s gone.
It’s More Than a Piece of Furniture
When asked about the market for “used furniture,” Seippel’s response is nuanced. Factors like location, brand, style, and condition play a significant role in determining value. Henkle Harris, a revered furniture maker based in Winchester, VA, is a prime example of a brand that commands attention and high prices. Known for its craftsmanship and use of cherry wood, Henkle Harris holds a special place in the hearts of locals, much like gospel music and the Carter/Cash family.
At Green Valley Auction, three Henkle Harris pieces—a dark pencil post bed, a bachelor’s chest, and a side table—sold for $3,700. The bachelor’s chest, made of mahogany with reeded quarter-columns and solid brass hardware, was a standout, selling for $2,700. Seippel notes that this price is more than double what he paid for a similar piece at CTBids last year. The bed, a Wild Black Cherry four-poster with a shaped headboard and finials, also showcased the brand’s attention to detail and high-quality materials.
For collectors in the Valley, owning a Henkle Harris piece is about more than functionality—it’s a connection to a cherished legacy. Seippel’s insights highlight the emotional and cultural value that can elevate the price of well-crafted furniture.
Lesser-Known, but Higher-Priced
Seippel’s final pick comes from MaxSold, where a lot of eight paintings by Margaret Thomson sold for $4,800. This sale was a head-scratcher for Seippel, as Thomson’s works typically sell for under $100. After some research, he discovered that Thomson is likely a Canadian artist, and the sale may have been part of her estate. The higher price for this lot suggests that sometimes, the unknown can capture significant attention and value.
This sale underscores the unpredictability of the art market, where lesser-known artists can sometimes fetch surprising prices. Seippel’s curiosity and willingness to dig deeper into the story behind the sale demonstrate the importance of research in understanding market trends.
About Will Seippel
Will Seippel is the founder, president, and CEO of WorthPoint. With a passion for collecting since 1974 and a career as a dealer since 1984, Seippel has extensive experience in the antiques and collectibles industry. He is also the creator of HIP, a website dedicated to preserving the world’s history through film. Through WorthPoint, Seippel continues to help collectors and dealers discover, value, and preserve their treasures.
Conclusion
Will Seippel’s insights into recent auction sales highlight the diverse factors that drive value in the antiques and collectibles market. From the opulence of fine jewelry to the craftsmanship of iconic furniture brands and the intrigue of lesser-known artists, each sale tells a story of history, passion, and investment. By sharing his expertise, Seippel empowers others to navigate the market with confidence, whether they’re buying or selling. WorthPoint remains a valuable resource for anyone looking to uncover the true worth of their treasures.
