Is Siam silver jewelry the next hot silver collectible?

Photograph: Desert West Auction Service

A couple of months ago, Kovels.com noted that “Modernist silver jewelry is hot, especially Mexican pieces by William Spratling and American pieces by Art Smith. But prices are getting high, so some collectors are searching for Siam jewelry, the tourist jewelry made in Thailand in the 1960s and later. Pieces are usually silver with black enamel decorations of Siamese gods, boats, and other traditional designs….”

For those who think vintage Mexican silver is becoming too pricey, there are many opportunities to acquire vintage Siam silver jewelry and vintage Siam niello jewelry at fairly reasonable prices. The photograph above, for example, is for a lot of 3 vintage Siam bracelets and a vintage Taxco silver pin. The entire lot was expected to sell for $75.00 to $ 125.00, but sold for the starting bid amount of $ 50.00.

The black and silver bracelets are examples of old Siam niello jewelry, and the white and silver bracelet is enameled.

An online auction for a lot consisting of a Siam silver bracelet, buckle, pair of earrings, sterling silver Thailand bangle, and a silver metal Egyptian bangle is coming up on June 11th, if you want to check it out. The starting bid is £14. The Siam/Thailand pieces all appear to be niello.

Photograph: Eastbourne Auction Rooms

The same auction house also has this lot to be auctioned on June 11th: Collection of Indian and Siam silver including a tankard, mustard, salts, etc, the largest item 7cm high. The starting bid is £14.

Photograph: Eastbourne Auction Rooms

If you’re willing to expand your silver horizons, these auctions could be a good way to start.

Learn more about vintage Siam silver and vintage Siam niello jewelry.