A VICTORIAN STYLE DIAMOND AND OPAL DRESS RING having central brilliant surrounded by eight oval

Important Notices for Bidders
1. Introduction. The following informative notes are intended to
assist Buyers, particularly those inexperienced or new to our
salerooms. All sales are conducted on our printed Conditions
of Sale which are readily available for inspection and normally
accompany catalogues. Our staff will be happy to help you if there
is anything you do not fully understand.
2. Agency. As auctioneers we usually contract as agents for the
seller whose identity, for reasons of confidentiality, is not normally
disclosed. Accordingly if you buy your primary contract is with the
seller.
3. Estimates. Estimates are designed to help buyers gauge what
sort of sum might be involved for the purchase of a particular lot.
The lower estimate may represent the reserve price and certainly
will not be above it. Estimates do not include the Buyer’s Premium
or VAT (where chargeable). Estimates are prepared some time
before the sale and may be altered by announcement before the
sale. They are in no sense definitive.
4. Buyer’s Premium. The Conditions of Sale oblige buyers to pay
a buyer’s premium at 17.5% plus VAT on the premium at the rate
imposed by law on the hammer price of each lot purchased.
5. VAT. (*) indicates that VAT is payable by the purchaser at the
standard rate on the hammer price as well as being an element in
the buyer’s premium. This imposition of VAT is likely to be because
the seller is registered for VAT within the European Union and is
not operating the Dealers Margin Scheme or because VAT is due
on importation into the UK. The double symbol (**) indicates that
the lot has been imported from outside the European Union and
the present position is that these lots are liable to a reduced rate of
VAT (5%) on the gross lot price (i.e. both the hammer price and the
buyer’s premium). Lots which appear without either of the above
symbols indicate that no VAT is payable on the hammer price.
This is because such lots are sold using the Auctioneers’ Margin
Scheme and it should be noted that the VAT added to the buyer’s
premium is not recoverable as input tax. The purchase invoice will
show the buyer’s premium as a VAT inclusive figure.
6. Purchasers Condition Reports. Purchasers are reminded to
carefully examine items prior to sale. Whilst the Auctioneers are
willing to give verbal condition reports these may not reveal certain
imperfections in any lot. The exact physical condition, the extent of
any defect, restoration or repair must be ascertained by intending
purchasers by thorough inspection of the lots prior to bidding at
the sale. The Auctioneers take no responsibility whatsoever for the
condition of any of the lots included in sales.
7. We are, primarily, agents for the seller. We are dependent on
information provided by the seller and whilst we may inspect lots
and act reasonably in taking a general view about them we are
normally unable to carry out a detailed or any examination of lots
in order to ascertain their condition in the way in which it would be
wise for a buyer to do. Intending buyers have ample opportunity
for inspection of goods and, therefore, accept responsibility for
inspecting and investigating lots in which they may be interested.
Please note carefully the exclusion of liability for the condition of
lots contained in the Conditions of Sale. Neither the seller nor we,
as the auctioneers, accept any responsibility for their condition.
In particular, mechanical objects of any age are not guaranteed
to be in working order. However, in so far as we have examined
the goods and make a representation about their condition, we
shall be liable for any defect which that examination ought to have
revealed to the auctioneer but which would not have been revealed
to the buyer had the buyer examined the goods. Additionally,
in specified circumstances lots misdescribed because they are
‘deliberate forgeries’ may be returned and repayment made.
There is a 3 week time limit. (The expression ‘deliberate forgery’ is
defined in our Conditions of Sale).
8. Electrical goods. These are sold as ‘antiques’ only and if
bought for use must be checked over for compliance with safety
regulations by a qualified electrician first.
9. Export of goods. Buyers intending to export goods should
ascertain (a) whether an export licence is required and (b) whether
there is any specific prohibition on importing goods of that
character because, e.g. they may contain prohibited materials
such as ivory. Ask us if you need help.
10. Bidding. Bidders may be required to register before the sale
commences and lots will be invoiced to the name and address on
the registration form. Some form of identification may be required
if you are unknown to us. Please enquire in advance about our
arrangements for telephone bidding.
11. Commission bidding. Commission bids may be left with the
auctioneers indicating the maximum amount to be bid excluding
buyers’ premium. They will be executed as cheaply as possible
having regard to the reserve (if any) and competing bids. If two
buyers submit identical commission bids the auctioneers may
prefer the first bid received. Please use our website to submit
commission bids.
Online Bidding. Bigwood Fine Art Auctioneers Ltd. offer an online
bidding service via the-saleroom.com for bidders who cannot
attend the sale. In completing the bidder registration on
www.the-saleroom.com and providing your credit card details and
unless alternative arrangements are agreed with Bigwood Fine Art
Auctioneers Ltd:
1. authorise Bigwood Fine Art Auctioneers Ltd, if they so wish, to
charge the credit card given in part or full payment, including
all fees, for items successfully purchased in the auction via
the-saleroom.com, and
2. confirm that you are authorised to provide these credit card
details to Bigwood Fine Art Auctioneers Ltd through
www.the-saleroom.com and agree that Bigwood Fine Art
Auctioneers Ltd are entitled to ship the goods to the card
holder name and card holder address provided in fulfilment
of the sale.
Please note that any lots purchased via the-saleroom.com
live auction service will be subject to an additional 3%
commission charge + VAT at the rate imposed on the
hammer price.
Payment is accepted at the saleroom when the buyer is
present either by cash (up to £9000), debit or credit card
(subject to a 3% surcharge).
Absentee buyers are required to pay by BACS/On-line bank
transfer to our account. Sort code 09-07-20. Account 0522
8883. Absentee card payments ARE NOT ACCEPTED.
12. Purchases. In order to avoid delay in clearing purchases, buyers
who are unknown to us are advised to make arrangements,
before the sale, for payment or for references to be supplied. If
such arrangements are not made, cheques will be cleared before
purchases are made available for collection. Some credit cards
now accepted with a 3% surcharge on total invoice. Debit cards
accepted at no additional charge. Absentee card payments are
not accepted. Buyers are reminded that Bigwood Fine Art
Auctioneers Ltd. reserve the right to charge interest on all lots
which have not been cleared five working days following the
sale, together with storage charges at the minimum rate of £5.00
per item per week plus VAT. Purchasers are reminded to obtain
a bidding number from the Sale Room Office, no bids will be
accepted from purchasers without a buyers number.
13. Collection and storage. Please note what the Conditions of Sale
state about collection and storage. It is important that goods are
paid for and collected promptly. Any delay may involve the buyer
in paying storage charges.
14. Viewing. Sales are on view at least one day beforehand. Times
are given on our website. Estimates are printed in the catalogues
with each description, and the Sale Room Staff are always happy
to offer advice.
15. Potential Buyers. You are advised to check with the Sale Room
before travelling any distance, in case of last minute cancellations,
alterations or additional lots.
16. Starting Times and Bidding. Please check the sale starting time
and any withdrawals, as these will affect the time your lots come
up.
Auction speeds generally vary between approx. 100 to 150 lots to
the hour, but please check with the office. Please indicate clearly
that you are bidding by raising a catalogue or a hand.
17. Catalogues. Catalogues for forthcoming sales are available at the
office or by subscription. Forms are available from Reception or by
post.
18. Sale Dates. A calendar of forthcoming sales is available from
Bigwood Fine Art Auctioneers Ltd. and will be sent to clients
on request. Sales are also advertised in the Trade Journals and
Local Newspapers. You are invited to visit our website for sales
information and addendum information -
www.bigwoodauctioneers.co.uk



Conditions of Business of Bigwood Fine Art Auctioneers Ltd. (Bigwood)
Bigwood carries on business with bidders, buyers and all those present in the auction
room prior to or in connection with a sale on the following General Conditions and on
such other terms, conditions and notices as may be referred to herein.
1. DEFINITIONS
In these Conditions:
(a) “auctioneer” means the firm of Bigwood Fine Art Auctioneers Ltd. (Bigwood)
or its authorised auctioneer, as appropriate;
(b) “deliberate forgery” means an imitation made with the intention of deceiving
as to authorship, origin, date, age, period, culture or source but which is
unequivocally described in the catalogue as being the work of a particular
creator and which at the date of the sale had a value materially less than it
would have had if it had been in accordance with the description;
(c) “hammer price” means the level of bidding reached (at or above any
reserve) when the auctioneer brings down the hammer;
(d) “terms of consignment” means the stipulated terms and rates of commission
on which Bigwood accepts instructions from sellers or their agents;
(e) “total amount due” means the hammer price in respect of the lot sold
together with any premium, Value Added Tax chargeable and any additional
charges payable by a defaulting buyer under these Conditions;
(f) “sale proceeds” means the net amount due to the seller, being the hammer
price of the lot sold less commission at the stated rate, Value Added Tax
chargeable and any other amounts due to us by the seller in whatever
capacity and however arising;
(g) “You”, “Your”, etc. refer to the buyer as identified in Condition 2 below.
(h) The singular includes the plural and vice versa as appropriate.
2. BIDDING PROCEDURES AND THE BUYER
(a) Bidders are required to register their particulars before bidding and to satisfy
any security arrangements before entering the auction room to view or bid;
(b) the maker of the highest bid accepted by the auctioneer conducting the sale
shall be the buyer at the hammer price and any dispute about a bid shall be
settled at the auctioneer’s absolute discretion by reoffering the Lot during
the course of the auction or otherwise. The auctioneer shall act reasonably in
exercising this discretion.
(c) Bidders shall be deemed to act as principals.
(2) Our right to bid on behalf of the seller is expressly reserved up to the amount
of any reserve and the right to refuse any bid is also reserved.
3. INCREMENTS
Bidding increments shall be at the auctioneer’s sole discretion.
4. THE PURCHASE PRICE
The buyer shall pay the hammer price together with a premium thereon of 17.5%
plus VAT on the premium at the rate imposed by law.
5. VALUE ADDED TAX
Value Added Tax on the hammer price is imposed by law on all items affixed with
an asterisk or double asterisk. Value Added Tax is charged at the appropriate
rate prevailing by law at the date of sale and is payable by buyers of relevant
Lots. (Please refer to “Information for Buyers” for a brief explanation of the VAT
position).
6. PAYMENT
Payment is accepted at the saleroom when the buyer is present either by cash (up to
£9000), debit or credit card (subject to a 3% surcharge). Absentee buyers are required
to pay by BACS/On-line bank transfer to our account. Sort code 09-07-20. Account
0522 8883. Absentee card payments ARE NOT ACCEPTED.
(1) Immediately a Lot is sold you will:
(a) give to us, if requested, proof of identity, and
(b) pay to us the total amount due in cash or in such other way as is agreed by
us.
(2) Any payments by you to us may be applied by us towards any sums owing
from you to us on any account whatever without regard to any directions of
you or your agent, whether express or implied.
7. TITLE AND COLLECTION OF PURCHASES
(1) The ownership of any Lots purchased shall not pass to you until you have
made payment in full to us of the total amount due.
(2) You shall at your own risk and expense take away any lots that you have
purchased and paid for not later than 3 working days following the day of the
auction or upon the clearance of any cheque used for payment after which
you shall be responsible for any removal, storage and insurance charges.
(3) No purchase can be claimed or removed until it has been paid for.
8. REMEDIES FOR NON-PAYMENT OR FAILURE TO COLLECT PURCHASES
(1) If any Lot is not paid for in full and taken away in accordance with these
Conditions or if there is any other breach of these Conditions, we, as agent
for the seller and on our own behalf, shall at our absolute discretion and
without prejudice to any other rights we may have, be entitled to exercise
one or more of the following rights and remedies:
(a) to proceed against you for damages for breach of contract;
(b) to rescind the sale of that Lot and/or any other Lots sold by us to you;
(c) to resell the Lot (by auction or private treaty) in which case you shall be
responsible for any resulting deficiency in the total amount due (after
crediting any part payment and adding any resale costs). Any surplus so
arising shall belong to the seller;
(d) to remove, store and insure the Lot at your expense and, in the case of
storage, either at our premises or elsewhere;
(e) to charge interest at a rate not exceeding 1.5% per month on the total
amount due to the extent it remains unpaid for more than 3 working days
after the sale;
(f) to retain that or any other Lot sold to you until you pay the total amount due;
(g) to reject or ignore bids from you or your agent at future auctions or to
impose conditions before any such bids shall be accepted;
(h) to apply any proceeds of sale of other Lots due or in future becoming due
to you towards the settlement of the total amount due and to exercise a
lien (that is a right to retain possession of) any of your property in our
possession for any purpose until the debt due is satisfied.
(2) We shall, as agent for the seller and on our own behalf pursue these rights
and remedies only so far as is reasonable to make appropriate recovery in
respect of breach of these conditions
9. THIRD PARTY LIABILITY
All members of the public on our premises are there at their own risk and must
note the lay-out of the accommodation and security arrangements. Accordingly
neither the auctioneer nor our employees or agents shall incur liability for death
or personal injury (except as required by law by reason of our negligence) or
similarly for the safety of the property of persons visiting prior to or at a sale.
10. COMMISSION BIDS
Whilst prospective buyers are strongly advised to attend the auction and are
always responsible for any decision to bid for a particular Lot and shall be
assumed to have carefully inspected and satisfied themselves as to its condition
we will if so instructed clearly and in writing execute bids on their behalf. Neither
the auctioneer nor our employees or agents shall be responsible for any failure to
do so save where such failure is unreasonable. Where two or more commission
bids at the same level are recorded we reserve the right in our absolute discretion
to prefer the first bid so made.
Online Bidding
Bigwood Fine Art Auctioneers Ltd. offer an online bidding service via thesaleroom.
com for bidders who cannot attend the sale. In completing the bidder
registration on
www.the-saleroom.com and providing your credit card details and unless
alternative arrangements are agreed with Bigwood Fine Art Auctioneers Ltd:
1. authorise Bigwood Fine Art Auctioneers Ltd, if they so wish, to charge
the credit card given in part or full payment, including all fees, for items
successfully purchased in the auction via the-saleroom.com, and
2. confirm that you are authorised to provide these credit card details
to Bigwood Fine Art Auctioneers Ltd through www.the-saleroom.com and
agree that Bigwood Fine Art Auctioneers Ltd are entitled to ship the goods to
the card holder name and card holder address provided in fulfilment of the
sale.
Please note that any lots purchased via the-saleroom.com live auction
service will be subject to an additional 3% commission charge + VAT at
the rate imposed on the hammer price. Absentee card payments ARE NOT
ACCEPTED (see 6. Payment)
11. WARRANTY OF TITLE AND AVAILABILITY
The seller warrants to the auctioneer and you that the seller is the true owner of
the property consigned or is properly authorised by the true owner to consign it
for sale and is able to transfer good and marketable title to the property free from
any third party claims.
12. AGENCY
The auctioneer normally acts as agent only and disclaims any responsibility for
default by sellers or buyers.
13. TERMS OF SALE
The seller acknowledges that Lots are sold subject to the stipulations of these
Conditions in their entirety and on the Terms of Consignment as notified to the
consignor at the time of the entry of the Lot.
14. DESCRIPTIONS AND CONDITION
(1) Whilst we seek to describe lots accurately, it may be impractical for us to
carry out exhaustive due diligence on each lot. Prospective buyers are given
ample opportunities to view and inspect before any sale and they (and any
independent experts on their behalf) must satisfy themselves as to the
accuracy of any description applied to a lot. Prospective buyers also bid
on the understanding that, inevitably, representations or statements by us
as to authorship, genuineness, origin, date, age, provenance, condition or
estimated selling price involve matters of opinion. We undertake that any
such opinion shall be honestly and reasonably held and accept liability for
opinions given negligently or fraudulently. Subject to the foregoing neither
we the auctioneer nor our employees or agents nor the seller accept liability
for the correctness of such opinions and all conditions and warranties,
whether relating to description, condition or quality of lots, express, implied or
statutory, are hereby excluded. This Condition is subject to the next following
Condition concerning deliberate forgeries and applies save as provided for in
paragraph 6 “information to buyers”.
(2) Private treaty sales made under these Conditions are deemed to be sales by
auction for purposes of consumer legislation.
15. FORGERIES
Notwithstanding the preceding Condition, any Lot which proves to be a deliberate
forgery (as defined) may be returned to us by you within 21 days of the auction
provided it is in the same condition as when bought, and is accompanied by
particulars identifying it from the relevant catalogue description and a written
statement of defects. If we are satisfied from the evidence presented that the Lot
is a deliberate forgery we shall refund the money paid by you for the Lot including
any buyer’s premium provided that (1) if the catalogue description reflected the
accepted view of scholars and experts as at the date of sale or (2) you personally
are not able to transfer a good and marketable title to us, you shall have no rights
under this condition.
The right of return provided by this Condition is additional to any right or remedy
provided by law or by these Conditions of Sale.
GENERAL
16. We shall have the right at our discretion, to refuse admission to our premises or
attendance at our auctions by any person.
17. (1) any right to compensation for losses liabilities and expenses incurred in
respect of and as a result of any breach of these Conditions and any
exclusions provided by them shall be available to the seller and/or the
auctioneer as appropriate.
(2) Such rights and exclusions shall extend to and be deemed to be for the
benefit of employees and agents of the seller and/or the auctioneer who may
themselves enforce them.
18. Any notice to any buyer, seller, bidder or viewer may be given by first class mail
or Swiftmail in which case it shall be deemed to have been received by the
addressee 48 hours after posting.
19. Special terms may be used in catalogue descriptions of particular classes of
items in which case the descriptions must be interpreted in accordance with any
glossary appearing at the commencement of the catalogue.
20. Any indulgence extended to bidders buyers or sellers by us notwithstanding the
strict terms of these Conditions or of the Terms of Consignment shall affect the
position at the relevant time only and in respect of that particular concession only;
in all other respects these Conditions shall be construed as having full force and
effect.
21. English law applies to the interpretation of these Conditions.