NEW YORK, NY.- Heritage Auctions has announced that Eva Violante, a trained gemologist with extensive experience working with diamonds, estate jewelry, and timepieces, has joined the firm as the New York Director of Fine Jewelry. Violante will assist clients in valuing fine estate and contemporary jewelry in Heritage Auctions' growing New York office.

"Eva is exactly the type of expert our clients will be delighted to work with," said Kathleen Guzman, Managing Director of Heritage Auctions New York. "With an eye toward profit margins, Eva is a proven business driver and her expertise covers various categories including diamonds, contemporary, period and estate jewelry, as well as timepieces."

Violante's passion for fine jewelry became apparent at a young age. "I purchased my first brooch from a garage sale when I was five," she said. "I fished it out of a large bin of costume jewelry and it ended up having precious stones. I was very proud." Early in her career, Eva's interest in luxury and design brought her to renowned fashion houses such as Diane Von Furstenberg and Anne Fontaine where she worked in marketing and brand strategy. Since 2007, Violante worked for one of Madison Avenue's largest diamond and jewelry firms as a jewelry and watch buyer. Most recently, she lived and worked in Madrid, Spain as an International Buyer where she honed her skills evaluating antique jewels and watches.

"When a client meeting begins, I am always at the edge of my seat eager to see what comes rolling out of the bag, box or crumpled paper," she said. "My favorite discovery was a small purple plique-à-jour Fabergé egg coiled by a gold serpent whose head was an old European cut diamond. Through my loupe, I saw the microscopic initials "M.P." on the pendant's bale and smiled knowing that I had discovered an egg from the late 1800's made by Michael Perchin, the most famous Farberge work master. The young girl who owned the piece had no idea that she had such a treasure. I explained what potential it had in terms of value, and it eventually contributed a large sum to her Fordham College education."


In a previous role, Violante maintained strong profit margins on more than $1 million worth of transactions in estate jewelry and timepieces. Her valuation expertise spans a wide range of brands which include names such as Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, Faberge, Patek Phillipe, Rolex, and Vacheron Constantine. She is a GIA licensed diamond and colored stone grader. Recently, she attended Switzerland's Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie and acquired a certificate in mechanical watch making. Fluent in Spanish, Violante also is a member of the Women's Jewelry Association.

Her love of the outdoors and running occupies much of her free time. A national champion rower, Violante has also competed in various New York City marathons. She also is an active member of The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Southern New York Chapter, as a fundraiser and volunteer.

"We are excited to add Eva's accomplishments and discerning taste to Heritage Auctions' Fine Jewelry category," said Jill Burgum, Senior Director of Fine Jewelry. "Her insight and longtime experience in New York will be an asset to my team and our clients all around the world."

Eva Violante, Heritage Auctions' New York Director of Fine Jewelry, may be reached at 877-HERITAGE (437-4824) ext. 1872 or EvaV@ha.com