Cartier 18-carat gold box discovered at Moreton valuation

The item, made by Cartier, was unearthed by Matthew Lafite, associate director at Kinghams Auctioneers, during a valuation day in Moreton.

He said: “We were amazed and delighted to discover the distinctive, red-coloured leather and gilt tooled outer presentation box.

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"Before I could see what was inside, I knew it would be special.

"An outer box like that says one thing – Cartier.”

It was brought to the valuation by a Cotswold family who had participated in Kinghams’ weekly Tuesday event.

Not just a random piece of jewellery, the box's design came from the house of Rupert Emmerson in collaboration with Jacques-Théodule Cartier, the then head of Cartier London.

Decorated with hexagonal stylised tesserae in vari-coloured gold, it is a unique item.

Adding to its allure, the push-piece that opens the box is a crafted cushion-shaped ruby.

Emmerson, a designer of the popular Cartier 'Crash Watch' in 1966, is credited with designing the piece.

He received training at the Chiswick Art School and played a role in the creation of insignia and medals for Charles de Gaulle's Victory parade in 1944 after the Liberation of Paris.

Well-regarded in the industry, his designs are showcased by the British Museum.

The box, hallmarked for 18-carat gold, London 1957, measures 8.2cm in length and weighs 154.17 grams.

It is one of the highlights of the Kinghams Auctioneers' Silver & Objects of Vertu sale scheduled for Friday, March 22nd.

Mr Lafite said: "It could do exceptionally well indeed.

"We are very excited and have high hopes."

The auction item carries a pre-sale estimate of between £6,000-8,000.

Those interested in future auctions or wishing to put forward their Cartier items, Kinghams welcomes entries for future specialist auctions.

People can reach out to Mr Lafite at matthew@kinghamsauctioneers.com or by calling 01608 695695