Antique Australian Sapphire Diamond Bangle by Duggin Shappere

Australian antique bangle by Duggin Shappere & Co., 15ct yellow gold floral sapphire and diamond bracelet worn on wrist

$7,000.00

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A striking example of late Victorian refinement and Australian distinction, this hinged sapphire and diamond flower bangle by Duggin Shappere & Co., Melbourne, dates to 1895 and embodies the rare appeal of locally made Australian jewellery. Made in 15ct yellow gold, the bangle centres on a finely modelled floral motif: a vivid round sapphire at the heart, encircled by sparkling old cut diamonds that catch the light with soft, antique fire. The central sapphire is complemented by six additional round sapphires, set within an openwork band held with flowing gold leaf like forms. Fourteen old cut diamonds are tastefully positioned throughout, adding antique brilliance without overwhelming the composition.

There is a confident elegance to the design: the twin rails of the bangle provide a graceful structure while the floral gold motifs create movement and delicate shadowing across the wrist. The combination of deep cornflower blue sapphires and warm 15ct gold is quintessentially Victorian yet unmistakably Australian in origin. A quality that makes this piece particularly scarce and sought after among collectors. Duggin Shappere & Co. were one of Melbourne’s most prolific jewellers in the late 19th century, and their work is prized for its technical skill and distinctive local character; this bangle carries their craftsmanship in every refined detail.

Condition reflects sympathetic wear consistent with age, lending the piece a gentle patina that enhances its historic presence while remaining suitable for regular wear. The hinged construction and secure clasp make it practical as well as beautiful, a wearable heirloom that invites daily use.

For the buyer seeking a jewel with personality and provenance rooted in Australia’s early jewellery history, this Duggin Shappere bangle is a rare opportunity. This bangle is a miniature sculpture of time, a conversation piece and a wearable link to 1895 Melbourne. Add this scarce Australian treasure to your collection and enjoy the immediate charm and enduring value of a genuine Victorian sapphire and diamond bangle.

Circa: 1895
Design Period: Late Victorian
Jeweller: Duggin Shappere & Co. of Melbourne
Gemstones: Sapphire and Diamond
Cut: Round Sapphires and Old Cut Diamonds
Carat: 14 Diamonds = 0.35ct
Stone Measurements: 7 Sapphires: 3.90, 3.20 and 2.55 mm
Metal: 15ct Yellow Gold
Inner Diameter of Bangle: 59.00 x 50.00 mm

Accompanied by an independent Ian Abeshouse Valuation

Duggin Shappere & Co of Melbourne

Duggin Shappere & Co. of Melbourne occupies a notable place in the story of Australian jewellery, combining technical skill, inventive design and an early commitment to local gemstone use. Established in 1896 by partners Harry Duggin and Percy Shappere, the firm quickly earned a reputation for high quality workmanship and distinctive pieces that reflected an emerging national aesthetic.

Working at the turn of the century, an era when Australia was asserting its cultural identity, the company became particularly associated with settings that showcased Australian gems, most notably opals and locally sourced diamonds, which helped their pieces appeal to both domestic and international markets. Harry Duggin emerged as a creative force within the partnership. His designs often drew on native fauna and flora, translating Australiana motifs into wearable art.

Among the firm’s better known models were whimsical yet finely executed animal themed pieces such as the “O’possum” and the “Kookaburra,” which combined naturalistic detail with the refined finishes expected of top tier manufacturing jewellers. These designs demonstrated a sensitivity to form and texture and an ability to balance charm with the restraint favoured by refined clientele.

Duggin Shappere’s hallmark, an anchor stamp, signified the maker’s pride in their production and was used alongside the guarantee marks of the Manufacturing Jeweller’s Association of Victoria, an assurance of quality that collectors and buyers looked for.

The business began in Howey Place off Little Collins Street and, after several relocations, established more permanent premises at 343 Little Collins Street, continuing active trade there until 1932. The company’s work found audiences beyond Melbourne. Duggin Shappere & Co. exhibited at major jewellery shows and attracted coverage in magazines and newspapers both in Australia and overseas, reflecting their dual identity as skilled artisans and shrewd promoters of Australian gem and design traditions.

Like many enterprises of the period, however, the firm was affected by the economic upheavals of the late 1920s. Records show that from 1929 the firm ceased to appear in manufacturing jewellers’ directories, a casualty of the Great Depression.

Today Duggin Shappere & Co. pieces are sought after by collectors interested in late Victorian and Edwardian Australian jewellery, valued not only for their craftsmanship and materials, but as early and expressive examples of an Australian design language in precious metal and stone.

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