Antique Liberty & Co Jewellery: History, Value and Selling at Auction

History, Collectability and Selling at Fieldings Auctioneers

Liberty & Co jewellery holds a special place in the history of British decorative arts and remains highly sought after by collectors today. Founded in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty, Liberty & Co began as a Regent Street shop specialising in exotic fabrics, textiles and decorative objects inspired by Japan and the Far East. The company quickly became synonymous with innovative design and played a pivotal role in shaping late Victorian and Edwardian taste.

Liberty & Co began selling jewellery towards the end of the 19th century, at a time when the Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau movements were transforming British design. In 1899, Liberty launched its celebrated Cymric jewellery and silver range, marking a significant moment in the company’s history. Designed by leading artists such as Archibald Knox, Liberty & Co jewellery was characterised by flowing lines, natural motifs, Celtic influences, and the use of semi-precious stones including opals, turquoise and amethyst. These pieces combined artistic integrity with commercial appeal, making high-quality design accessible to a wider audience.

Today, antique Liberty & Co jewellery is highly collectible due to its craftsmanship, distinctive design language and strong provenance. Early pieces dating from around 1900 are particularly desirable, especially those retaining original gemstones and clear Liberty & Co markings. Collectors value Liberty jewellery not only as wearable art but also as an important reflection of Britain’s artistic evolution at the turn of the 20th century.

For those interested in buying or selling Liberty & Co jewellery, specialist auction houses play a crucial role in connecting collectors with rare pieces. Fieldings Auctioneers, based in the West Midlands, are well known for their expertise in fine jewellery, silver and bijouterie. Their forthcoming Jewellery, Silver, Watches & Bijouterie auction on 12th February features a standout example: Lot 181, a Liberty & Co fire opal ring, circa 1900. This striking ring perfectly encapsulates the vibrant colour palette and refined design that make Liberty & Co jewellery so enduringly popular.

Whether you are a collector, investor or simply passionate about historic design, Liberty & Co jewellery offered at Fieldings Auctioneers represents a rare opportunity to acquire pieces of exceptional artistic and historical significance.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW LOT 181 - LIBERTY & CO. OPAL RING