Diamonds, diamonds and more diamonds at Christie’s auction in Geneva: the charm of the most beloved stone is not falling ♦ ︎
A lot of raises, overwhelming estimates, competitions between buyers to buy the best pieces: Christie’s Magnificent Jewels auction in Geneva was exciting. Overall (but adding the concomitant wine and watches auctions) Christie’s sales totaled $ 98.2 million, with over 2,500 visitors at the Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues, where events were organized. The three sales have registered, Christie’s says, bidders from 57 countries and with 20% of new participants in the auctions. The Magnificent Jewels auction, in particular, saw 16 lots sold over 1 million, with total sales reaching $ 81.6 million.
The highlight of the day was a 50.47 carat D-Color diamond ring by Harry Winston. This maxi diamond has been sold for 6.5 million. Other pieces that have attracted a lot of interest are a spectacular 20.49 carat vivid fancy yellow ring, with an almost record price per carat for a total of 5.6 million, a ring with an intense pink 8.52 carat pink diamond sold for $ 6.27 million and an important necklace of emeralds and diamonds of the late nineteenth century, by Tiffany & Co., dated around 1880, originally sold at Christie’s New York, more than 20 years ago and which has realized 1 , 57 million. But, even under the symbolic roof of 1 million, the rises were not lacking. As in the case of the Cartier bracelet with figures of birds, which was estimated at 200-300,000 dollars but sold for 800,000. Four times the basic price. It is appropriate to say that the evaluation has taken off.
Here is the official statement of Rahul Kadakia, International Head of Jewelery: “The inaugural GemGenève jewellery fair attracted a 140 exhibitors and many new faces to Geneva, adding to the spirited activity at the sales all week long. White diamonds, in particular showed great demand, alongside blue and pink stones and top vintage jewels.”
And here is that of François Curiel, Christie’s president of Europe and Asia: “The Spring 2018 auctions marked another successful sale season in Christie’s 50 year long history selling in Geneva. For the last half a century Christie’s Switzerland has connected collectors across the world to experience owning beautiful objects from art to jewellery and watches to wine. 50 years of knowledge and passion has elevated Christie’s into a leading position of the Swiss Art market.” Federico Graglia
