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Description

Bernard K. Passman Diamond, Black Coral, Gold Earrings
Stones: Full-cut diamonds weighing a total of approximately 0.25 carat; black coral inlay
Metal: 18k gold
Marked: for Bernard K. Passman
Gross Weight: 12.70 grams
Dimensions: 7/8 inch x 9/16 inch
*Note: Earrings are designed for pierced ears and are easily converted


NOTE: CITES compliance applies to this lot. International bidders may not have the lot shipped to them. Transport of such lots require special licenses for export, import or both. Bidders are responsible for any licenses and /or permits. California State law prohibits the importation of any product containing Python skin into the State of California, thus no lot containing Python skin will be shipped to or invoiced to a person or company in California. Fossil Ivory is currently banned or restricted in the following U.S. States: New York, New Jersey, California, Hawaii, New Mexico, Oregon, Illinois and New Hampshire.

Estimate: $1,000 - up.

Condition Report*: Diamonds:
Avg Color: D-E-F
Avg Clarity: VS
Shape(s): Full-cut
Count: 1 - 25

Colored Gems:
Type(s): Black Coral
Shape(s): Carved
Count: 1 - 25
Avg Quality: Fine

Metals:
Gold

Overall Condition: Very Good
Condition Notes: Strikingly sculptural and distinctly modern, these Bernard K. Passman earrings showcase the designer’s signature use of black coral contrasted with high-quality diamonds, all framed in gleaming 18k gold. Each earring is vertically hand-inscribed "BKP" and stamped 18k, affirming gold purity, and is fitted with both posts and omega clips for secure, comfortable wear. A row of five bright diamonds adds a sleek channel of brilliance between the gracefully tapering panels of hand-carved black coral. Minor signs of prior wear are present, yet the pair remains in very good overall condition. Housed in their original Bernard K. Passman clamshell box, now showing interior deterioration, these earrings offer a timeless fusion of natural materials and minimalist elegance that reflects the celebrated Caribbean designer’s refined artistic vision.
Bernard K. Passman: Bernard K. Passman (1916–2007) was a decorated World War II veteran who built early success as a stockbroker and investor before making his second fortune as a real estate developer during Miami's mid-century renaissance. In the early 1970s, he relocated with his family to Grand Cayman, where he launched a groundbreaking career in luxury design. In 1975, Passman founded a fine jewelry workshop in the Cayman Islands, pioneering the use of sustainably harvested black coral. He established the first luxury retail brand originating in the Caribbean, renowned for combining hand-carved black coral with 18-karat gold and diamonds. His work drew international acclaim, attracting clients including Prince Charles and Princess Diana, Pope John Paul II, and President Ronald Reagan. From refined wearable pieces like the minimalist Dainty collection to intricate figurines and nautical sculptures, Passman’s designs reflected exceptional craftsmanship and artistic vision. Though he passed away in 2007, his legacy lives on through highly prized original works, licensed reissues, and ongoing production in the Cayman Islands. His name remains synonymous with luxury black coral jewelry—rich in Caribbean heritage and celebrated worldwide.

*Heritage Auctions strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by Heritage regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Heritage. All lots offered are sold "AS IS".

Auction Info

Proxy Bidding Ends 
October
7th Tuesday 1:50 pm CT
Auction Dates
October
7th Tuesday
Proxy Bidding Time Remaining 
1 Day 21h 41m 51s
Internet/Mail Bids: 0
Lot Tracking Activity: 5
Page Views: 38

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This lot is in: 1 - Jewelry & Timepieces Session
(Lots 71001-71103) - 2:00 PM Central Time, Tuesday, October 7, 2025.
[Proxy bidding ends ten minutes prior to the session start time. Live Proxy bidding on Heritage Live now starts within 2 hours of when the auction opens for proxy bidding and continues through the live session.]

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Starting Bid:
$500
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