Jewellery, Objects of Vertu, Silver and Watches

A cultured pearl necklace by De Vroomen, 2001, the three strands of cultured pearls with an oval-cut blue paste to the front, with en suite drop below, mounted in 18ct gold, signed ‘de Vroomen’, maker’s mark, London hallmark, European convention mark, maker’s case, length 44.5cm. £700-£1,000

Born in Holland during the Second World War, Leo de Vroomen was the youngest of eight siblings. His family were tulip farmers but from an early age Leo dreamed of a different life.

Following his apprenticeship in The Hague and qualifying as a Master Goldsmith in Switzerland, he came to London in 1965. It was whilst lecturing at the Central School of Art and Design that he met his future wife, the artist and designer Ginnie. They married and in 1976 together founded De Vroomen Design Ltd. The company rapidly expanded and the distinctive De Vroomen style gained international reputation.

During these years, Ginnie’s painting became increasingly important and in 1997, she had her first solo show in Chelsea.

De Vroomen went on to be the winners of the coveted De Beers Diamonds International Award in 1974, wining a second award in 1986.

In 1991, the Goldsmiths’ Hall held a retrospective exhibition of their work, marking 20 years of the partnership between Leo and Ginnie. A second exhibition at Goldsmiths’ Hall took place in the summer of 2017, to celebrate 50 years of De Vroomen jewellery, exhibited the jewellery against the backdrop of Ginnie’s exquisite paintings.

Over the years, De Vroomen have evolved their distinctive style, using strong sculptural forms modelled in gold and set with gemstones, enamel and pearls, their minimal use of diamonds showcasing the bold coloured stones, cloisonné and champlevé enamels.

Literature:
Wingfield, Mary Ann, Modern British Jewellery Designers 1960-1980: A Collector’s Guide, pub. ACC Art Books, 2021.

Gross weight 178gm.
The central blue stone and drop below have been confirmed as paste by GCS. Both well matched in colour, very good transparency. Some very small nibbles evident under 10x magnification. Diamonds bright and lively. Cultured pearls well matched - skins with wrinkling, spots and typical blemishes. Overall very good condition, may benefit from restringing. Clasp secure.