Nigel O'Reilly at Sotheby's 'Important Jewels'

‘Plato’s Garnet’ and ‘Damask Rose’, as featured by Sothebys, New York.

Nigel O Reilly to feature at Sotheby’s auction.

Becoming the first Irish high-jewellery designer and maker to feature in a Sotheby’s live auction is incredibly special to Nigel O’Reilly. Two of O’Reilly’s signature rings were selected by Sotheby's Vice President of High Jewellery, Frank Everett, and will feature in their Important Jewels auction in New York, on Thursday 22nd October 2020.

The first ring selected was ‘Damask Rose’, an 18kt rose gold ring featuring diamond, green tsavorite garnets and 757 individually hand set rubies to create the rose petals. ‘Plato’s Garnet’ is O’Reilly’s second ring, featuring a 10.69ct umbalite garnet cut by the late Erwin Springbrunn, and crafted with pink sapphires, rubies and cognac diamonds.

When asked why Sotheby’s chose to include Nigel O’Reilly’s work at auction, Frank Everett said “In addition to the impeccable craftsmanship, what impresses me most about Nigel’s work is his truly unique use of colour and form. The unusual cut of the green tourmaline in his ‘Labyrith Ring’ for example, or the opposing gemstones in his “Jack and Queen” earrings, perfectly mismatched in shape and colour. The attention to detail on the undercarriage of the rings is always beautiful and interesting. Whether it’s a pattern achieved with gold, a mix of coloured stones or the scalloped edge of the bezel, Nigel’s designs are captivating from every angle”.