Christie’s New York Magnificent Jewels sale, held on December 8, raked in $54,970,500, with 91% sold by lot and 94% sold by value, Diamond World reports.
According to the report, the auction achieved “strong results for colored diamonds.” The top lot was an important fancy vivid yellow diamond pendant weighing 70.19 carats of VS2 clarity which sold for $2,850,000. A rare fancy vivid orangy pink diamond ring weighing 5.38 carats of VS2 clarity sold for $2,670,000, and a fancy dark gray-blue diamond ring of 8.74 carats raked in $2,610,000.
A collection called “A Superlative Eye: Property from a Distinguished Chicago Collection” included Art Deco Cartier jewels and achieved some noteworthy results. For example, a Graff ruby and diamond ring realized $1,290,000; an Art Deco emerald, sapphire and diamond brooch once belonging to Mrs. Cole Porter achieved $381,250; and a Cartier Art Deco multi-gem and diamond Egyptian revival brooch realized over three times its high estimate when it sold for $268,750.
