ADAM'S Fine Jewellery & Ladies Watches 13th May 2025

95 124 GILBERT ALBERT A GOLD, DIAMOND AND HARDSTONE ‘LES BILLES-BIJOUX’ PARURE Comprising a necklace, a pair of earclips, a pendant/brooch and a ring, of abstract and textured gold design, decorated, each enhanced with brilliant-cut diamonds (apart from the pendant), accompanied by interchangeable hardstone spheres of various tints, mounted in 18K gold, each with maker’s mark ‘GA’ for Gilbert Albert, with maker’s pouch, pendant/brooch length 5.3cm, ring size J½, earclips length 3.3cm, necklace approximately 42cm € 6,000 - 7,000 Gilbert Albert was born on September 30, 1930, in Geneva. Inspired by his father’s rever - ence for the natural world, Albert’s creative vi- sion redefined the relationship between nature and adornment. Albert’s design journey began early with him at - tending the esteemed School of Industrial Arts in Geneva. His exceptional talent caught the eye of Patek Philippe, and by the age of 25 he was working in Philippe’s workshop, where he revolu - tionised watch design. Breaking away from con - ventional forms, Albert introduced asymmetrical cases and sculptural aesthetics, creating iconic timepieces that transcended mere functionality. His groundbreaking “Ricochet” series, celebrat - ed for its daring geometry, earned him three prestigious Diamonds International Awards dur - ing his tenure—recognition that solidified his sta - tus as a leading innovator in horology. In 1962, Albert opened his own atelier, trans - forming the unconventional into the extraordi - nary with materials such as meteorites, fossilised bones, and the exoskeletons of scarab beetles. His philosophy was to preserve the inherent beauty of nature without alteration, a principle that infused his jewellery with an air of mystery and allure. Among his most iconic pieces is the innovative necklace with interchangeable beads, which af - fords its wearer a highly individualised expres - sion of beauty. His work often featured the sa- cred beetle pattern, paying homage to ancient cultures that revered these creatures. His passing in October 2019 has been exceeded by the legacy Gilbert Albert left behind, with his creations highly sought after in auction houses worldwide, celebrated as masterpieces of both art and nature.