Antiques: Diamonds and rubies add Valentine's sparkle

Des O'Sullivan previews a jewellery, gold and silver auction as well as furniture and collecitble sales

A diamond-set ruby mounted on a platinum ring at Matthews.

Can romance be mined from unredeemed pledges? It might just be possible to come up with the answer to this teasing question in time for Valentine's Day at Matthews jewellery, gold and silver auction tomorrow. The sale will feature executor's lots, pieces from private clients and unredeemed pawnbrokers' pledges with plenty to choose from among 593 lots.

A ruby diamond set cluster on a platinum ring or an 18-carat white gold diamond set sapphire and ruby brooch, each estimated at €2,500-€3,500, are laden with sparkling romantic potential. Or if you are not superstitious how about a pear-cut sapphire and 13-diamond set pendant (€2,000-€3,000). There are bracelets, rings, diamond solitaires, necklaces, earrings, chokers, watches and objects of all sorts to express your love, so it is over to you.