Sigurd Persson: The Pioneer Who Gave Jewellery an Identity

Sigurd Persson (1914–2003) seemed destined from childhood—spent in the workshop of his father, Frithiof Persson—to become one of the foremost designers of the post-war era. Yet it was through studies in Sweden and Germany, combined with an unerring eye for the future, that he came to revolutionise Swedish design.

The Revolution at NK

The major turning point came in 1960. Inspired by René Lalique’s imaginative expression, yet weary of the austere aesthetic of the 1950s, Persson created the collection “77 Rings” for Nordiska Kompaniet. It was a bold venture: NK provided the materials, Persson the vision. The result shocked contemporaries—diamonds were set in slender rows, spiral bands and openwork cones, an approach considered almost sacrilegious towards such precious stones, yet acclaimed by an astonished international audience.

When parts of the collection were exhibited at Liberty’s in London in 1961, The Sunday Times dubbed his work “Space Age Jewels”. This success laid the foundation for subsequent celebrated series such as “7×7 Bangles”—a tribute to the strong woman—as well as collections of earrings and necklaces.

A Unique Opportunity for Collectors

Today, Sigurd Persson stands as an unshakeable pillar of modern jewellery art. It is therefore with great pride that Stockholms Auktionsverk now presents an exceptional collection of his work.

The collection offers a rare opportunity to follow Persson’s thematic process and his ability to transform hard metals and precious stones into wearable poetry. For collectors and art lovers alike, the auction represents a unique chance to acquire works by a master who not only fully mastered his craft, but also possessed the courage to continually reinvent it.