auction - Page 5

Queen Victoria’s jewels at Sotheby’s auction


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Years pass, but the British nobility continues to exert a charm that encourages the many television series, from Downton Abbey to The Crown. Or it manifests itself with an interest in auctions of objects and jewels linked to the English court. An example of this is the auction to be held on 24 March, at Sotheby’s, in London. The sale will offer fine pieces from two legendary families, with over 350 lots ranging from jewelry, furniture, paintings, sculptures, Chinese art, silver, ceramics and art objects.

Patricia Edwina Victoria Mountbatten nel giorno del matrimonio con il marito, John Knatchbull
Patricia Edwina Victoria Mountbatten nel giorno del matrimonio con il marito, John Knatchbull

Precious goods from the second Countess Mountbatten of Burma, great-granddaughter of Queen Victoria, and also great-granddaughter of the last Russian tsarina, first cousin of Prince Philip and daughter of the last viceroy of India of Great Britain, will therefore be on sale. And, as well, third cousin of Queen Elizabeth. Patricia Edwina Victoria Mountbatten, born in 1924, was known and remembered for her “unwavering perseverance and seductive sense of humor” during her lifetime in the heart of the British cultural establishment. Patricia then married John Knatchbull, seventh Lord Brabourne. She passed away in 2017.
Collana Tutti i frutti
Collana Tutti i frutti

The auction, among the many precious objects, also includes Queen Victoria’s mourning jewels. The value, in this case, is given above all by history. Always wore in black, for the death of her husband Alberto in 1861, the queen wore mourning brooches, buttons and pendants. Jewels that, in the various intersections of the family tree, have reached Countess Mountbatten. They consists of an onyx and pearl button with a miniature portrait of Princess Alice, an agate and pearl pendant with a lock of hair engraved “from grandma VR” and an enamel and diamond cross brooch, with a heart of onyx in the center with the word Alice under a crown. The fourth jewel is an agate and diamond pendant, commissioned by Prince Albert himself shortly before his death, to commemorate Queen Victoria’s mother, Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld, Duchess of Kent.
Gioielli da lutto appartenuti alla regina Vittoria
Gioielli da lutto appartenuti alla regina Vittoria

In any case, the auction also offers other types of jewelry for sale. For example, a series of art deco jewels All Fruits. The style, which emulated multicolored gems from India (her father, Lord Mountbatten, was the last viceroy) had a special place in the heart of the countess. Countess Mountbatten’s necklace features a crown of carved rubies, emeralds and sapphires accented with diamonds and sapphire pearls. Also art deco is a 1929 bracelet with octagonal links in rock crystal, diamonds and emeralds for sale by Hennell, a jeweler who at the time was the British rival of Cartier and Boucheron.

Among the jewels, there are also two diamond brooches considered unisex: a Maltese diamond cross, a symbol of protection, and a circular brooch, also set with diamonds in a wave pattern. They were a gift to countess by her father, Louis Mountbatten.

Bracciale con cristallo di rocca, smeraldi e diamanti by Hennell
Bracciale con cristallo di rocca, smeraldi e diamanti by Hennell

Coppia di spille a clip Tutti i frutti
Coppia di spille a clip Tutti i frutti

Pendente con diamanti
Pendente con diamanti

Spille croce di Malta e onde con diamanti donate da Louis Mountbatten
Spille croce di Malta e onde con diamanti donate da Louis Mountbatten







Karl Lagerfeld’s jewels for Chanel at auction




After the Christmas break, jewelry auctions are back. And Christie’s from January 14th to 29th offers an online sale dedicated to Chanel jewelery that was part of Susan Gutfreund’s property. They are jewels collected in the eighties and nineties, during the “reign” of creative director Karl Lagerfeld in the French fashion house. Almost all the jewels are one-of-a-kind pieces specially created by King Karl for the Chanel fashion shows.

Grande spilla Chanel in vetro e pietre
Grande spilla Chanel in vetro e pietre

Susan (former Pan Am flight attendant) was the wife of John Gutfreund, a prominent business banker. Passionate about fashion, the couple were friends with Lagerfeld, who died in 2019. The designer has personally donated some of these jewels created for the shows to the couple over the years. With the Christie’s auction, collectors and enthusiasts of the designer’s work thus have an opportunity to secure the best pieces: the pieces range from 200 to 6,000 dollars. The jewels are also a testimony of the fashion trend at the time.

Spilla con perle finte e strass
Spilla con perle finte e strass
Bracciali in velluto
Bracciali in velluto
Set di gioielli in vetro di Gripoix e perle finte
Set di gioielli in vetro di Gripoix e perle finte
Orecchini in perle sintetiche e resina
Orecchini in perle sintetiche e resina
Polsini in tessuto e pelle
Polsini in tessuto e pelle
Collana di perle finte
Collana di perle finte
Collier di Karl Lagerfeld per Chanel
Collier di Karl Lagerfeld per Chanel






Jewelery to help Beirut at auction with Christie’s




We Are All Beirut: help comes from the world of jewelry for the Lebanese city, devastated in recent months by a tremendous explosion. Promoting the charity action is Christie’s, which until November 24 is presenting a charity auction to promote and help the restoration and cultural activities of Beirut. The proceeds of the auction, in fact, will be entrusted to The Arab Funds for Arts and Culture (AFAC).

Bracciali di Piaget
Bracciali di Piaget

We Are All Beirut is auctioning works by artists in three areas: the arts, the world of design and jewelry. In particular, the 11 jewels for sale also contain symbols related to the Middle Eastern country, such as the colors of the Lebanese flag. As in the case of the green dial of the limited edition Bulgari watch of which only 11 were made.
Anello Scaphandre con onice di Elie Top
Anello Scaphandre con onice di Elie Top

Piaget donated three bracelets, each representing a color of the Lebanese flag. The specially made bracelet by Nadine Kanso was inspired by the sale title Kelna Beirut (the words mean We Are All Beirut). Additionally, two creations are unveiled for the first time through this sale: Hemmerle’s hand-sculpted anodized aluminum earrings and reverse-set purple sapphire earrings and Glenn Spiro’s brand new carved ceramic and tourmaline earrings, which glow in the dark.
Gli orecchini che brillano nel buio di Glenn Spiro
Gli orecchini che brillano nel buio di Glenn Spiro

Supporting the work behind AFAC’s cultural and philanthropic initiative, advocating and directing the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Beirut’s artistic and cultural landscape is so important to us here at Christie’s. Witnessing such an incredible level of interest and generous contributions to We Are All Beirut, regionally and internationally, depicts a humanity and benevolence that is so very much needed today. We like to take this opportunity to send our deepest thank you to all jewellery designers and maisons as well as watchmakers and retailer for their substantial contributions.
Caroline Louca-Kirkland, CEO of Christie’s Middle East

Orecchini con diamanti di Boghossain
Orecchini con diamanti di Boghossain

Karma el Khalil, a talented Lebanese jewelry designer based in New York whose creations are dubbed by Hollywood stars, is represented with her flagship piece, the Sunshine Ear Cuff. The charity sale offers the latest available piece of this collection, calling out the rays of dawn and radiating hope.

Bracciale in oro con smeraldi di Nadine Kanso
Bracciale in oro con smeraldi di Nadine Kanso

Orecchini Diamond Sunrise di Karma el Khalil
Orecchini Diamond Sunrise di Karma el Khalil







Jewels in streaming with Faraone Casa d’Aste




Jewelery auction (and more) in streaming for Faraone Casa d’Aste. Bidders will be connected through the online bidding platform, by telephone and the usual written offers. The auction house’s appointment, divided into three rounds, will also be an opportunity for the launch of a further specific division for Luxury Goods and which will complement the two already existing dedicated to the sale of jewelry and watches. For this reason, the Milanese company has included in the catalog, that is consisting of 212 lots mainly of high jewelery, also 22 women’s handbags under the Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and of course Hermès brands.

Parure di Chopard, collezione Casmir, in oro giallo 18 carati e diamanti
Parure di Chopard, collezione Casmir, in oro giallo 18 carati e diamanti

But the jewels remain the main dish on the menu. The catalog features pieces from great Maisons, such as a Panthère set by Cartier consisting of a yellow gold necklace and brilliant-cut diamonds for a total weight of about 1 carat and a bracelet complete with case. Another highlight is a set by Chopard, Casmir collection, in 18k yellow gold consisting of a necklace, with brilliant-cut diamonds, bracelet and earrings. There is also a wide selection of Buccellati jewelry, including a 1950s white gold bracelet with yellow gold threads, a Gianmaria Buccellati band ring in 18-karat yellow and white gold with brilliant-cut diamonds.

Collana in oro giallo e diamanti di Cartier
Collana in oro giallo e diamanti di Cartier
Anello di Buccellati
Anello di Buccellati
Orecchini in oro giallo 18 carati con diamanti centrali fancy light brownish yellow per un totale di 4,31 carati, contornati da diamanti navette
Orecchini in oro giallo 18 carati con diamanti centrali fancy light brownish yellow per un totale di 4,31 carati, contornati da diamanti navette
Orecchini in oro bianco 18 carati con smeraldi colombiani a cuscino per complessivi 5 carati e diamanti old cushion del peso totale di circa 4,50 carati
Orecchini in oro bianco 18 carati con smeraldi colombiani a cuscino per complessivi 5 carati e diamanti old cushion del peso totale di circa 4,50 carati
Orecchini Belle Époque in platino con perle naturali
Orecchini Belle Époque in platino con perle naturali

Anello in oro giallo 18 carati con spinello rosso ovale centrale, nessuna indicazione di  trattamento termico e diamanti
Anello in oro giallo 18 carati con spinello rosso ovale centrale, nessuna indicazione di trattamento termico e diamanti







Blue blood jewels at Sotheby’s auction

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A dive into history through jewels. This is also the auction of Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels scheduled for Wednesday 11 November in Geneva. In addition to numerous vintage jewels and great Maison such as Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier or Blugari, the auction house also offers for sale a series of pieces that have a fascinating origin.

Paure con diamanti e smeraldi, circa 1770
Paure con diamanti e smeraldi, circa 1770

For example, the emerald and diamond set that belonged to Manuel de Guirior y Portal, 1st Marquis de Guirior, lieutenant general of the Royal Navy, viceroy of New Granada and Peru, who was born in Aoiz in the ancient kingdom of Navarre, on 21 March 1708. Born into an illustrious Navarrese family, his parents were Don Carlos de Guirior Erdozain and María Josefa del Portal. An eighteenth-century necklace with diamonds and emeralds is not a jewel that you see every day.
Orecchini di diamanti attribuiti a Cartier, provenienti dalla collezione di Sarah Baillie-Hamilton
Orecchini di diamanti attribuiti a Cartier, provenienti dalla collezione di Sarah Baillie-Hamilton

To underline the offer of jewels of noble origin is also a beautiful pair of natural pearls, set in a pair of sparkling diamond earrings attributed to Cartier, from the collection of Sarah Baillie-Hamilton, born Sarah Cook (1903-1995). Born in Montreal in 1903, she met George, the Earl of Haddington, when she was working as aide-de-camp to the Governor General of Canada. Or a Cartier necklace that was part of the collection of Henriette Hélène, say Elly, Porgès, marquise de la Ferté-Meun (1878-1946), married to Eugène, marquis de la Ferté-Meun (1870-1946), daughter of Jules Porgès (1839-1921) and Anna Wodiamer.
Demi parure di diamanti Anni 50 firmata Mauboussin
Demi parure di diamanti Anni 50 firmata Mauboussin

The auction also features a large representation of art deco jewelery signed by the Maison Mauboussin, founded in 1827 by M. Rocher, in the midst of French political instability and colonial conquests. In 1878, Jean-Baptist Noury, M. Rocher’s successor, received a medal in recognition of his work at the Exposition Universelle de Paris which established the firm’s solid reputation. Under the guidance of George Mauboussin, the interwar period is characterized by exoticism, which is reflected in the selection and quality of Mauboussin’s gems: jade from the East, pearls and coral from the Middle East. Federico Graglia
Collana con diamanti, circa 1925, di Henriette Hélène, dite Elly, Porgès, marchesa de la Ferté-Meun
Collana con diamanti, circa 1925, di Henriette Hélène, dite Elly, Porgès, marchesa de la Ferté-Meun

Collana con zaffiri rosa,  ametiste, peridoti e diamanti di Bulgari
Collana con zaffiri rosa, ametiste, peridoti e diamanti di Bulgari

Harry Winston, collana con diamanti fancy
Harry Winston, collana con diamanti fancy
Collana con diamanti, circa 1925, di Henriette Hélène, dite Elly, Porgès, marchesa de la Ferté-Meun
Collana con diamanti, circa 1925, di Henriette Hélène, dite Elly, Porgès, marchesa de la Ferté-Meun
Spilla in diamanti di Van Cleef & Arpels, circa 1940
Spilla in diamanti di Van Cleef & Arpels, circa 1940
Anelo con diamante taglio cuscino di 18,03 carati
Anelo con diamante taglio cuscino di 18,03 carati

Parure con zaffiri e diamanti anni Sessanta
Parure con zaffiri e diamanti anni Sessanta
Collana con zaffiri rosa,  ametiste, peridoti e diamanti di Bulgari
Collana con zaffiri rosa, ametiste, peridoti e diamanti di Bulgari







Joan Collins jewels for sale




Do you remember Joan Collins? Today she is 87 years old, but she has been one of the sex symbols of Hollywood cinema, even if in reality she is British, Londoner. In addition to starring in numerous films, Joan Collins owes her fame to a long-running television series, Dinasty, which raged in the 1980s. Her career is not in dispute, but now the actress is selling her most precious jewels, which will be auctioned in London by Bonhams on 12 November. An opportunity for jewelry lovers, but also for those who collect objects related to celebrities.

Joan Collins assieme a Nicky Haslam
Joan Collins assieme a Nicky Haslam

The jewels at auction are worthy of the character of Alexis Colby played in Dynasty by Joan Collins, the vengeful ex-wife of the tycoon Blake Carrington. One of the most precious jewels on sale, in fact, is a diamond necklace purchased in 1985, during the heyday of the series. Perhaps to make people forget the evil TV personality, part of the proceeds from the sale of the jewelry will go to The Shooting Star Children’s Hospice, a charity that cares for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and their families. of which Collins is patron.
Collana di diamanti
Collana di diamanti

Spilla di diamanti di Van Cleef & Arpels di proprietà di Joan Collins
Spilla di diamanti di Van Cleef & Arpels di proprietà di Joan Collins
Collana in oro e diamanti
Collana in oro e diamanti

Orecchini in oro bianco e diamanti
Orecchini in oro bianco e diamanti







Great jewels at the online auction with Christie’s




Great jewels at auction, but online. It is the obligatory trend of this period. The sale, Christie’s Important Jewels, takes place from November 4th to 18th and includes a wide range of jewels from different eras, from the late 18th century to the present day. A group of Victorian insect brooches, opulent Belle Epoque and Art Deco jewelery, bold yellow gold and enamel gems from the 1960s to 1980s, and a wide selection of contemporary pieces signed by the most renowned jewelery houses are on sale of the world including Bulgari, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Graff and Tiffany & Co.

Antica collana con diamanti a forma di cuscino chiusa sul retro, nastro di velluto nero, 1790 circa
Antica collana con diamanti a forma di cuscino chiusa sul retro, nastro di velluto nero, 1790 circa

The main lots of the sale include an elegant Edwardian wreath-shaped tiara (estimate 45,000-65,000 pounds), an Art Deco bracelet with diamonds and cabochon rubies by Drayson (40,000-60,000 pounds), a rare antique necklace with a diamond collar and a detachable cluster pendant (100,000-150,000) and a limited edition Crash diamond bracelet watch from Cartier (40,000-60,000).
Collana con rubini ovali e circolari, diamanti baguette
Collana con rubini ovali e circolari, diamanti baguette

A cultured pearl, diamond and enamel bracelet, formerly owned by Dame Vera Lynn (aka Vera Margaret Welch, was a British singer who died aged 103), will be sold for the benefit of The Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity Established by Dame Vera in 2001, the association has helped more than 600 families who have children with cerebral palsy. The bracelet features an enamel plaque depicting the iconic image of blue birds flying over the white cliffs of Dover in reference to Dame Vera’s great record of wartime victories. This special and very personal bracelet was made in 2007 by Queen Harry Collins jeweler on the occasion of Dame Vera’s 90th birthday.
Bracciale di perle coltivate e smalto appartenuto a Dame Vera Lynn
Bracciale di perle coltivate e smalto appartenuto a Dame Vera Lynn

Bracciale Serpente di Bulgari con turchesi e diamanti
Bracciale Serpente di Bulgari con turchesi e diamanti
Anello con diamante taglio brillante di 5,07 carati e diamanti baguette
Anello con diamante taglio brillante di 5,07 carati e diamanti baguette

Tiara con design a ghirlanda, gocce di diamanti a forma di pera, vecchi diamanti circolari e taglio singolo, platino, circa 1910
Tiara con design a ghirlanda, gocce di diamanti a forma di pera, vecchi diamanti circolari e taglio singolo, platino, circa 1910







The eighth king of diamonds at Sotheby’s auction




Super diamond auctions are back. This time it will be Sotheby’s to offer a rare stone for sale: a large 102.39 carat oval D Color Flawless diamond. Only seven Internally Flawless or Flawless D-color white diamonds over 100 carats were sold at auction, the latest of these for 11.9 million dollars.. This is the eighth. The diamond will be offered “without reserve” on October 5 in Hong Kong: it means that the winning bid is the highest bid, regardless of its amount or the intrinsic value of the diamond itself. It is an unprecedented move and marks the first time in auction history that a diamond of this caliber, or indeed any work of art or object of this importance and intrinsic value, has been offered in this way.

Il diamante ovale D Color Flawless da 102,39 carati
Il diamante ovale D Color Flawless da 102,39 carati

The gem is perfect by every critical criterion and has reached the highest rankings under each of the standards by which the quality of a diamond is judged (the famous four C’s). The diamond is of color D (the highest grade for a white diamond). It is also exceptionally clear (it is completely flawless, both internally and externally), and has excellent luster and symmetry. This gem belongs to the rare subgroup comprising less than 2% of all diamonds, known as Type IIa.
Il diamante grezzo da cui è stato ricavata la pietra ovale
Il diamante grezzo da cui è stato ricavata la pietra ovale

It has been a profoundly transformative few months for the auction market. We have been at the forefront of change in the Fine Art and Watches categories, with new and pioneering auction formats, and this season we want to extend this approach to our jewelry sales. The economy offers many opportunities to do things differently: demand showed enormous resilience during the first part of the year and we believe it is time to let the market speak. Diamonds of this caliber attract interest far beyond the traditional pool of collectors. This groundbreaking sale seems like the best way to introduce this exceptional diamond to the world in the current circumstances where travel is limited and serves as a great indicator of the vitality of demand.
Patti Wong, president of Sotheby’s Asia

Il diamante da 102 carati
Il diamante da 102 carati

Diamonds in this group are the chemically purest type of diamond and often have exceptional optical clarity. The diamond was cut from a 271-carat rough stone, mined in the Victor mine, Ontario, Canada in 2018. After its discovery, the rough diamond was cut and polished within a year by Diacore, the world’s leading specialists in researching, cutting and polishing extraordinary diamonds, to best enhance their brilliance, fire and sparkle.
Il diamante all'asta di Sotheby's
Il diamante all’asta di Sotheby’s

This stunning diamond is the best of the best when it comes to exceptional white diamonds and it’s hard to overstate its rarity and beauty. Never before has the appreciation for world-class diamonds been so acute in the world and more and more people have come to realize that something billions of years old and the size of a lollipop can hold so much value a self-portrait by Rembrandt. or a Basquiat. The broader understanding that, being the hardest material on earth, this wonder of nature will survive us for another million years is certainly another factor in the strength of the demand.
Gary Schuler, world president of jewelry







An app for the next sale by Faraone Casa d’Aste




The covid has also changed the methods of auction sales. And digital platforms have become a valid system for completing sales: even Faraone Casa d’Aste has aligned itself with the new trend and on the occasion of the closed-door auction on 10 September launches its new app, with the aim to facilitate the enchantment even on smartphone. The launch of the app follows the interest shown by buyers at the auction on June 29, with significant use of digital devices. The Faraone Casa d’Aste app is free and can be downloaded from the Apple Store: it should simplify access and purchase during the auction and also post.

Cusi, bracciale in oro giallo 18 carati e platino con diamanti taglio a brillante e huit huit del peso complessivo di circa 2,80 ct e zaffiri carré
Cusi, bracciale in oro giallo 18 carati e platino con diamanti taglio a brillante e huit huit del peso complessivo di circa 2,80 ct e zaffiri carré

The chronology will allow the bidder to analyze his activity over time, study in detail the lots that will be beaten in future auctions, request info, report favorite lots by monitoring them thanks to a notification system, as well as having constant contact and direct with the auction house through your iPhone and iPad.
Chantecler, orecchini con diamanti e rubini birmani no heat e diamanti
Chantecler, orecchini con diamanti e rubini birmani no heat e diamanti

At the auction on 10 September, in any case, 113 pieces of jewelery will be auctioned, by Maison like Cusi, with a bracelet from the 1950s in platinum and yellow gold with diamonds, Chantecler with a pair of earrings with diamonds and Burmese rubies no heat and a brooch with diamonds, pearls and coral. In the catalog there is also a white gold ring with a 15-carat Ceylon no heat rectangular sapphire surrounded by diamonds for a total of 2.50 carats and a rigid bracelet in yellow and white gold with old-cut diamonds for a total of 20 carats. A Leaves collection by Mario Buccellati consists of a rigid bracelet, necklace and earrings, while a bracelet with charms in yellow gold, a pair of gas tube earrings, a Bzero ring in white gold with original box are on sale. At auction also pieces by Pomellato, Tiffany and objects signed by Cartier accompanied by original box.
Bracciale della collezione Foglie di Mario Buccellati
Bracciale della collezione Foglie di Mario Buccellati

Anello in oro bianco con zaffiro rettangolare Ceylon no heat di 15 carati contornato da diamanti
Anello in oro bianco con zaffiro rettangolare Ceylon no heat di 15 carati contornato da diamanti

Bracciale firmato Bulgari in oro giallo e bianco 18 carat
Bracciale firmato Bulgari in oro giallo e bianco 18 carat







Challenge between diamonds at Christie’s auction




What is the price of a 115.8 carat diamond? If you are interested, you can refer to the evaluation obtained at the first post covid auction of Christie’s which took place in New York. The VVS1 quality diamond, color F, 115.8 carat pear-shaped, suspended as a pendant on a diamond necklace, was sold for $ 6.29 million, reaching the experts’ estimate. The maxi diamond was the most prized piece of the Magnificent Jewels auction held at Rockefeller Center, which totaled $ 28.1 million for 87% of lots sold by value.

Diamante di qualità VVS1, colore F, di 115,8 carati a forma di pera
Diamante classificato VVS1, colore F, di 115,8 carati a forma di pera

It is always interesting to note the changes in interest (and price) on diamonds. If the 115.8 carat stone was bought for 6.29 million, an intense blue diamond of only 7.16 carats mounted on platinum was sold for $ 3.85 million: about 50% of the colorless one despite its size is only 7.5% compared to the larger one. In contrast, a 7.65-carat VS2-classed fancy purplish pink, pear cut, diamond mounted on a platinum and 18-carat rose gold ring was sold for $ 819,000, less then others, however above estimate.
Diamante blu intenso di 7,16 carati
Diamante blu intenso di 7,16 carati

Great success for four rectangular Colombian emeralds from 90 to 154 carats. The gems were sold for $ 519,000, tripling his estimate of $ 150,000. To note the appreciation obtained from vintage pieces, as for a pair of gold earrings by Man Ray, which has almost multiplied for ten the value of the estimate, a coral, onyx and diamond bracelet from Bulgari, a bracelet of rubies, emeralds, sapphires and diamonds, by Van Cleef & Arpels and the six jewels of the artist-jeweler, Jar, all assigned with values ​​higher than estimated. Federico Graglia
Diamante rosa violaceo chiaro fantasia classificato VS2 da 7,65 carati
Diamante rosa violaceo chiaro fantasia classificato VS2 da 7,65 carati

Bracciale con corallo cabochon ovale e triangolare, onice, diamanti, oro 18 carati di Bulgari
Bracciale con corallo cabochon ovale e triangolare, onice, diamanti, oro 18 carati di Bulgari

Orecchini con diamanti bianchi e grigi su oro e platino di Jar
Orecchini con diamanti bianchi e grigi su oro e platino di Jar
Orecchini Pendantif-Pendant di Man Ray
Orecchini Pendantif-Pendant di Man Ray
Spilla con rubino scolpito, ebano, oro di Jar
Spilla con rubino scolpito, ebano, oro di Jar
Bracciale di Van Cleef & Arpels con smeraldo, zaffiri e diamanti su oro e platino
Bracciale di Van Cleef & Arpels con smeraldo, zaffiri e diamanti su oro e platino







A ring by Reza towering at Christie’s auction




Question: did the evil covid-19, which blocked the world, also block the demand for luxury items? Looking at the result of Christie’s auctions in Geneva, postponed in July because of the pandemic, it would seem not. Starting from the success reserved for the sale of jewelry. In short, buying (and selling) very precious jewels still seems like a good investment. Here, however, is the result of the auctions.

L'asta di Christie's a Ginevra
L’asta di Christie’s a Ginevra

Christie’s sales in Geneva achieved a combined total of $ 57.9 million for 195 jewels, 226 watches and 819 fine wines, with a combined sale of 81%. Bidders, reports the British auction house, have registered from 42 countries, on six continents. And the highest price lot was an elegant blue and colorless Reza diamond ring, sold for $ 9.3 million in the sale of Magnificent Jewels.
Anello di Reza con diamante a taglio brillante modificato a pera blu brillante da 5,34 carati, e diamante a taglio brillante a pera da 5,37 carati, su platino
Anello di Reza con diamante a taglio brillante modificato a pera blu brillante da 5,34 carati, e diamante a taglio brillante a pera da 5,37 carati, su platino

Our 102nd week of sales in Geneva took place under extraordinary circumstances with social distancing, not just at the pre-sale exhibition but also at all three live auctions. Nevertheless, collectors showed great resilience and confidence as they bid and bought all week long, starting with the Cartier clocks to fine wrist watches, rare wines to superb gems. The star of the week was a twin stone blue and white diamond ring by Parisian jeweler, Reza, which achieved $ 9.2m after spirited bidding between several telephones. A 100ct perfect D color diamond was purchased by Moussaieff jewelers who continue to acquire the rare and unusual gems of the world.
Francois Curiel, president of Christie’s Europe

Diamante di 100 carati acquistato da Moussaieff
Diamante di 100 carati acquistato da Moussaieff

As for jewelry, the auction totaled $ 42.5 million, 88% in value and 80% per lot. Colored and colorless diamonds have remained the main attraction. And they were not only sold by telephone, but also in the hall, limited to one hundred visitors. In addition to the Reza diamond ring, a large 100.85 carat D-colored diamond, IF diamond, sold for $ 6 million to Moussaieff.
Additionally, part of the sale were a pair of magical aquamarine cabochons and single-cut diamond earrings by Margaret Jewels, a Geneva-based private jeweler, which were sold for the benefit of the Swiss Children’s Foundation. The sum of the earrings will be donated in its entirety for the benefit of the foundation’s mission to help children and young people around the world.
Anello con smeraldo ottagonale taglio a gradino di 29,54 carati
Anello con smeraldo ottagonale taglio a gradino di 29,54 carati

Christie’s has been the Jewels market leader for 26 years. Our commitment to excellence combined with our strong personal relationships has built our reputation, which in turn has created trust; the most important factor for clients when buying at auction, might it be live or online. The Geneva sale season, which operated under strict sanitary guidelines, including reduced attendance in the auction room, saw strong participation of buyers from 42 countries over the phone and online. With a combined sale result of CHF 54.6 million and a sell-through rate of 81%, we are now looking forward to London and New York to conclude the July Luxury Sales month, which started in Hong Kong.
Aline Sylla-Walbaum, International Business Manager of the Luxury Cluster

Bracciale Tutti i frutti di Cartier, venduto per 665.000 dollari quasi tre volte la stima
Bracciale Tutti i frutti di Cartier, venduto per 665.000 dollari quasi tre volte la stima
Collana di diamanti firmata Graff
Collana di diamanti firmata Graff

Collana con diamante taglio a pera di 49,81 carati
Collana con diamante taglio a pera di 49,81 carati







Rare jewels at the Artcurial auction in Monaco




Like every year, the principality of Monaco becomes the kingdom of luxury auctions, the one organized by Artcurial. Until July 21, at the Hôtel Hermitage, jewelry auctions are scheduled, as well as men’s and women’s watch collections, a growing segment brought together under the category of Le Temps est Féminin, in addition to the Hermès Summer Collection.

collier firmato Jean Fouquet in acquamarina, cristallo di rocca, platino e oro bianco, 1928
collier firmato Jean Fouquet in acquamarina, cristallo di rocca, platino e oro bianco, 1928

As part of the jewelry auction, a selection of rare and precious stones is proposed, together with pieces signed by great Maison of Place Vendôme and other designers. For example, a Jean Fouquet necklace in aquamarine, rock crystal, platinum and white gold, a Boucheron corsage clip in gold and diamonds, a ring by René Boivin, a Cartier corsage clip from 1930 with emeralds, diamonds, sapphires and rubies.
Given the situation, Monaco and the Hotel Hermitage organized themselves with all the necessary security measures.
Boucheron, clip de corsage in oro e diamanti
Boucheron, clip de corsage in oro e diamanti

For the last nearly fifteen years, our presence in Monaco has grown year on year. We are looking forward to returning to the Hôtel Hermitage in July to present a week of very strong sales centred round our luxury themes of Jewellery, Fine Watches and the Hermès Summer Collection. We are delighted to announce that Artcurial Motorcars returns to Monaco this year to present a selection of classic cars at the Musée de l’automobile du Prince.
Louise Grether, director of Artcurial Monaco

Anello chevalier di René Bonvin in oro, acciaio e diamante taglio brillante
Anello chevalier di René Bonvin in oro, acciaio e diamante taglio brillante
Spille in oro bianco e diamanti
Spille in oro bianco e diamanti
Cartier, spilla con smeraldi, zaffiri, rubini, diamanti
Cartier, spilla con smeraldi, zaffiri, rubini, diamanti
Anello con diamante taglio smeraldo
Anello con diamante taglio smeraldo
Anello con diamanti bianchi e gialli
Anello con diamanti bianchi e gialli

Bracciale Augier firmato Pedro Rudini
Bracciale Augier firmato Pedro Rudini







The blue diamond that enchanted Hong Kong




Eternal charm of the blue color: diamonds with this ethereal shade are very rare and, obviously, highly sought after. In Hong Kong, the auction organized by Christie’s saw a 12.11 carat blue diamond, marquise cut, was sold for $ 15.9 million, compared to the pre-sale estimate between 8 million and 12 million. And all after 15 minutes of raising. A sign that investing in diamonds, if it is exceptional stones, is still a goal for those who have a great deal of money. But, be careful: not all diamonds have the same charm.

Diamante blu da 12,11 carati, taglio marquise, montato su anello
Diamante blu da 12,11 carati, taglio marquise, montato su anello

At the same auction, for example, a colorless, flawless, rectangular step-shaped diamond of 17.95 carats was sold only for 1.6 million. In short, despite this diamond being perfect and weighing over 5 carats more than the blue one, it was valued at over 14 million less. While another much smaller blue diamond, only 2 carats, was sold for almost the same price: 1.5 million. A sign that the price of diamonds is really conditioned by criteria that are not always rational.
Diamante incolore, impeccabile, con taglio rettangolare a gradino da 17,95 carati
Diamante incolore, impeccabile, con taglio rettangolare a gradino da 17,95 carati

Among the other jewels sold, a necklace with a 19.53-carat Burmese star ruby ​​pendant, as well as other rubies and diamonds, a jewel signed by Edmond Chin for Etcetera: the ruby ​​is detachable and can be worn as a ring. The jewel was purchased for 2.7 million. Also from Etcetera, a bracelet with a very original design was sold, featuring two large stones: an amethyst and an oval cut sapphire. A pair of jadeite, ruby ​​and diamond earrings were sold for just under 1.3 million.

Bracciale in oro di Etcetera con ametista e zaffiro blu
Bracciale in oro di Etcetera con ametista e zaffiro blu
Collana di rubini e diamanti di Etcetera
Collana di rubini e diamanti di Etcetera

Orecchini di giadeite con rubini e diamanti
Orecchini di giadeite con rubini e diamanti







Jacky Kennedy’s jewel watch sold by Christie’s




A desk clock with sapphires, diamonds and rubies by Van Cleef & Arpels, which was part of the personal collection of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis: it is the most valuable piece sold at the Christie’s auction in Paris. The jewel-watch was sold for 310,000 euros, almost eight times the estimate before the sale, and was the subject of a flurry of offers between five bidders. A Cartier diamond ring was sold for € 175,000 and a rare Chaumet Art Deco emerald and diamond bracelet was sold for € 92,500. In the Paris auction there was also a ring with sapphire and Verdura diamonds, sold for € 274,000 and a necklace of emeralds and diamonds by Van Cleef & Arpels, sold on Christie’s Live (online) for € 81,250, doubling his estimate presale.

Jackie Kennedy
Jackie Kennedy

We are excited about the great results achieved today. They show that collectors are still eager to buy beautiful jewelry, such as the Van Cleef & Arpels desk clock sold for 310,000 against a presale estimate of 40,000-80,000. This price once again demonstrates collectors’ appetite for large provenance since this watch came from Jackie Kennedy’s personal collection! We are also pleased to see international buyers from 30 countries. Of all the lots sold, 39% were purchased on the Internet and 43% on the phone. These statistics demonstrate Christie’s international reach and the importance of our digital progress.
Violaine d’Astorg and Mafalda Chenu, sales specialists

Orologio da tavolo appartenuto a Jackie Kennedy Onassis in oro, diamanti e rubini, Van Cleef & Arpels
Orologio da tavolo appartenuto a Jackie Kennedy Onassis in oro, diamanti e rubini, Van Cleef & Arpels

The auction totaled 4.6 million euros (5.2 million dollars), with 79% of the lots awarded for 85% of the value. Federico Graglia

Bracciale art déco di Chaumet con diamanti e smeraldi
Bracciale art déco di Chaumet con diamanti e smeraldi

Anello di Cartier con diamanti di 14,37 carati
Anello di Cartier con diamanti di 14,37 carati
Anello di Verdura con zaffiro e diamante
Anello di Verdura con zaffiro e diamante
Anello art déco con zaffiro e diamanti di Cartier
Anello art déco con zaffiro e diamanti di Cartier

Spilla di David Webb a forma di uccello con zaffiri, smeraldi, rubini e diamanti
Spilla di David Webb a forma di uccello con zaffiri, smeraldi, rubini e diamanti







2.1 million diamond sold online by Christie’s




Eternal charm of diamonds: the auction of Christie’s Jewels Online (held from 16 to 30 June) totaled 4.1 million dollars, with 100% sold by value, 93% sold by lot. And over 140% of sales were above the lowest starting estimate, while 64% above or above the highest estimate.

Diamante taglio smeraldo di 28,86 carati, montato su platino
Diamante taglio smeraldo di 28,86 carati, montato su platino

The king of the auction was, as expected, the 28.86 carat diamond, color D, estimated at 1-2 million dollars. This diamond marks a stage in the history of auctions, because it was the most valued lot ever offered in an online sale of Christie’s. After strong competition from 31 offers, from four countries ranging from Asia to America, the stone was sold for over 2.1 million, a new record for a jewel sold online.
Orologio di diamanti firmato Graff
Orologio di diamanti firmato Graff

The spectacular 28.86 carat D color diamond received immediate attention upon its announcement. The stone possesses a transparency and purity which can only be found in the world’s finest diamonds. The sale of this exceptional stone established the record for a jewel sold in an online-only auction, demonstrating greater client confidence in Christie’s digital ability and online sale platform. We now look forward to the beginning of our live auction season for jewelry spanning all major Christie’s global sale sites led by a US$8m Fancy Intense Blue IF Diamond of 12.11 carats offered in Hong Kong on July 9.
Rahul Kadakia, international chief of jewelry at Christie’s

Rahul Kadakia con una selezione di gioielli appartenuti a Elizabeth Taylor venduti in una speciale asta organizzata da Christie’s nel 2011, che ha messo a segno un record di 116 milioni di dollari
Rahul Kadakia con una selezione di gioielli appartenuti a Elizabeth Taylor venduti in una speciale asta organizzata da Christie’s nel 2011, che ha messo a segno un record di 116 milioni di dollari

For the coronavirus, online sales received a significant global participation with offerers represented by 27 countries and five continents. In addition, there has been an unprecedented amount of online involvement in a global spread of 134 countries with a 70% increase in daily visitors to the sales web page compared to that hosted in June 2019.
Collana con diamanti e zaffiri
Collana con diamanti e zaffiri

Collana con diamanti taglio brillante
Collana con diamanti taglio brillante

Bracciale di Kutchinsky con smeraldi e diamanti bianchi e fancy
Bracciale di Kutchinsky con smeraldi e diamanti bianchi e fancy







Indian jewelry auctioned in Milan with Il Ponte




An auction featuring Indian jewelry is not ordinary. But this is exactly what the sale program organized by the auction house Il Ponte in Milan for the 2nd of July provides. There are about 500 lots on sale, among which a brand new collection stands out, the result of the activity of a traveler who, like a true pioneer, bought Indian jewelry years ago whose characteristic manufacture is enhanced by flat diamonds, decorations with enamels, pearls and gems.

Spilla in oro bianco, platino, con diamanti rotondi baguette
Spilla in oro bianco, platino, con diamanti rotondi baguette

The appointment also includes the sale of jewelry from large Italian fashion houses, including Pomellato, Bulgari, Buccellati, Chantecler, Cusi, Damiani, Vhernier, as well as international brands such as Tiffany & Co and Van Cleef & Arpels. A section of the auction is dedicated to antique jewelry, including a double broche in white gold and platinum finished with diamonds (lot 886, estimate 2,600-2,800 euros). And more, the auction catalog lists coral jewels, sea-scented jewels and summer atmospheres, with two pink coral boules necklace (lot 642, € 3,300-4,500 estimate) and red coral (lot 636, € 1,600-1,600 estimate). Finally, among the lots there are also diamonds and natural pearls.
Anello in oro giallo e argento con diamanti irregolari, rifinito sul gambo con diamanti rotondi. Diamante centrale a goccia
Anello in oro giallo e argento con diamanti irregolari, rifinito sul gambo con diamanti rotondi. Diamante centrale a goccia

Demi parure composta da collier de chien e orecchini pendenti in oro rosso 333/1000 e argento, diamanti irregolari flat e huit-huit, rifinito con frangia di perle nere pendenti
Demi parure composta da collier de chien e orecchini pendenti in oro rosso 333/1000 e argento, diamanti irregolari flat e huit-huit, rifinito con frangia di perle nere pendenti
Collana di corallo rosso
Collana di corallo rosso
Doppia broche in oro bianco e platino rifinita con diamanti
Doppia broche in oro bianco e platino rifinita con diamanti
Lunga collana in boules di corallo rosa
Lunga collana in boules di corallo rosa
Pomellato, lunga catena in oro bianco e giallo trasformabile in collier
Pomellato, lunga catena in oro bianco e giallo trasformabile in collier
Doppia broche in oro bianco e platino rifinita con diamanti
Doppia broche in oro bianco e platino rifinita con diamanti







Christie’s and Anna Hu’s anti-coronavirus diamonds




Diamonds that are good for health. And not just the psychological one of the wearer. Christie’s organized an online auction of three beautiful jewels created by Anna Hu. And the proceeds will go towards supporting health workers who fight against coronavirus. The auction will take place from 3 to 13 July: the pieces will be sold by Diamonds That Care, the recent social responsibility initiative of Alrosa, the largest diamond mining company in the world.

Il diamante brown di Alrosa da 27,02 carati utilizzato per la collana di Anna Hu
Il diamante brown di Alrosa da 27,02 carati utilizzato per la collana di Anna Hu

The main idea of ​​the initiative is that every diamond should help those in need. The designer, Anna Hu, created these unique pieces exclusively for this charity project using brown diamonds extracted from Alrosa in Yakutia, a region of the Siberian Far East. The proceeds from the sale will help health workers who continue to work at the center of efforts to combat the pandemic. The project is organized in collaboration with the non-profit organization Diamonds Do Good.
La lavorazione della collana
La lavorazione della collana

Anna Hu, born in Taiwan from a family active in the jewelry sector, lives in New York. But surprisingly, before becoming one of the most imaginative high jewelery designers, she studied cello, winning national awards. In the United States, she continued her studies at the New England Conservatory of Music. But her musical career was interrupted due to a shoulder injury. From musical notes to color notes: Anna Hu decided to take care of jewelry: she attended the Gemological Institute of America and FIT in New York. And in 2001 he earned a Masters in Art History from the Parsons School of Design, followed by a Masters in Arts Administration from Columbia University. In short, a genius capable of doing charity.
Bozzetto della collana
Bozzetto della collana

Disegni preparatori degli orecchini
Disegni preparatori degli orecchini
La lavorazione del collier
La lavorazione del collier

Disegno preparatorio per l'anello
Disegno preparatorio per l’anello

Anna Hu
Anna Hu







Christie’s sells online a diamond estimated $2 million




From books to diamonds that cost millions of dollars: online commerce has come a long way in a few years. Now, also because of the covid-19 epidemic, which has prevented auctions from taking place in the traditional way, even super jewels and gems of great value are offered via the web by auction houses. Christie’s, for example, has decided to break the record for diamonds: on June 16th and until the 30th of the same month, it will sell a large D-colored diamond online. It is the largest diamond ever auctioned online: it has a 28.86 carat emerald cut, VVS1 clarity, type IIa category, the classification for the chemically purest diamonds, which includes less than 2% of all diamonds. The estimate is between 1 million and 2 million dollars.

Diamante taglio smeraldo di 28,86 carati
Diamante taglio smeraldo di 28,86 carati

This year presented unprecedented circumstances, enabling Christie’s new opportunities through our enhanced digital platform. From year to year, we have seen an increase in online participation and the value threshold for online transactions.
Rahul Kadakia, Christie’s international jewelry chief

In any case, Christie’s prepares to return to sales of jewelry in the traditional way. The next appointment with the Magnificent Jewels is set for July 1st in Geneva.

Asta di Christie's a Ginevra
Asta di Christie’s a Ginevra







The Sotheby’s super auctions are back, here is the calendar




All the economy’s activities, hibernated by the coronavirus, return to (almost) normal: even the jewelery auctions. Sotheby’s has unveiled its new season of jewelry auctions, with dates re-adjusted from the pre-coronavirus calendar. Traditional auctions, often considered a critical factor for the market, follow a series of successful online sales. The results achieved in the last five weeks have been facilitated by Sotheby’s long-term omnichannel strategy, i.e. sales both with auctions in physical locations and via the web.

Unprecedented times are often a catalyst for change, crystallising pre-existing trends and accelerating innovations. In the past few weeks, we have seen the jewellery market further completing its digital revolution: our online sales realised some of their best performances ever, with many new and young collectors from around the world joining. It is also very clear that people are now confident in buying and selling important jewels online. As we look forward to welcoming jewellery lovers back to our salesrooms and exhibitions, we are excited to push ahead with innovative formats in the coming months, starting with the single-lot online sale of a sensational Tutti Frutti bracelet by Cartier at the end of this month.
David Bennett, world president of Sotheby’s jewelry division

David Bennet
David Bennet

Cartier bracelet: April 24-28
The new season begins with an unprecedented single-lot online auction, with a sensational Tutti Frutti bracelet with embedded gems, diamonds and enamels made by Cartier in the 1930s. Estimated between $ 600,000 and $ 800,000, this Art Deco jewelry masterpiece comes from an American collection. The bracelet is set with old European cut diamonds, emeralds, rubies and carved sapphires, as well as emerald pearls, cabochon and emerald sapphires, calibrated cut onyx and black enamel. The jewel is signed Cartier, numbered 1604; about 1930.
Bracciale Tutti i Frutti di Cartier, circa 1930
Bracciale Tutti i Frutti di Cartier, circa 1930

Magnificent Jewels – New York, June 9
It is the auction that was scheduled for April: it will present a series of important colored and white diamonds, significant precious stones and vintage and contemporary jewels of the most sought-after houses. Highlights include an exquisite 3.67 carat deep blue diamond ring (approximately $ 2.5-3.5 million, pictured left), a stunning Kashmir sapphire and a 1960s Cartier diamond bracelet (estimate of about 750,000 – 1 million dollars) and a rare Cartier coral bracelet from the 1930s from the Ganna Walska collection (about 80,000 – 120,000 dollars).
Anello con diamante blu intenso da 3,67 carati
Anello con diamante blu intenso da 3,67 carati

Paris Joaillerie – June 10th
Paris will celebrate the return to live auctions with a sale of 278 lots led by treasures of the French avant-garde, including a sumptuous 1930s gold and diamond Barbare necklace by Suzanne Belperron (lot 253, estimate 80,000-140,000 euros). Sotheby’s in Paris will also pay homage to the Parisian jeweler Mellerio, a Maison that has turned 407 years and is the oldest in the world, with the sale of 25 pieces created in the last 30 years of the last century. The salient lots include a necklace of emeralds and diamonds, with a 19.76 carat drop emerald cabochon (lot 169, estimate 20,000-40,000 euros).
Collana Barbare in oro e diamanti degli anni Trenta di Suzanne Belperron
Collana Barbare in oro e diamanti degli anni Trenta di Suzanne Belperron

Magnificent and Noble Jewels – Geneva, June 30th
Reprogrammed from the original date of May 12, the flagship auction will illuminate Lake Geneva with a series of important diamonds and precious stones selected for their rarity and quality, including Il Diamante Dell’Alba, an exceptional intense intense yellow diamond that weighs 100.52 carats (estimate of around 3-5 million dollars). Among the signed treasures that will be offered on June 30, Cartier lovers will certainly have fun with a beautiful coral and diamond brooch and a splendid pair of clips with diamond from the 1930s, and a diamond bracelet.
Diamante giallo intenso intenso di 100,52 carati
Diamante giallo intenso intenso di 100,52 carati

Magnificent Jewels – Hong Kong, 10 July
Originally scheduled for April, the sale will feature jadeite and colored diamonds, along with iconic designer pieces, such as the Van Cleef & Arpels Zip bracelet-necklace.
Collana-bracciale Zip di Van Cleef & Arpels
Collana-bracciale Zip di Van Cleef & Arpels







Success in New York of Sotheby’s auction




No diamond had a crazy price, but the Sotheby’s auction in New York has also achieved a record: it was the first sale of jewelry during the coronavirus emergency. The jewelry auction, obviously online, reached $ 739,375. Far from the numbers reached by Magnificent Jewels’ auctions, but important by counting the moment.

Orecchini con rubini di Michele della Valle
Orecchini con rubini di Michele della Valle

Half of the lots, Sotheby’s established, exceeded the highest estimates, pieces were purchased from 32 different countries and, halfway through the times, half of the offers came from smartphones or tablets. 97% of the lots were sold. In the catalog were also famous Maison pieces, such as David Webb, Verdura and Tiffany & Co. The highest lot of the sale was a pair of earrings with rubies by Michele della Valle, which reached $ 25,000, more than three times the estimate higher starting point ($ 7,000). All 11 David Webb designer jewels were sold, led by a gold and enamel bracelet. Sold out also for the 15 lots of Tiffany & Co., which had as its most valuable piece a necklace of peridots designed by Paloma Picasso ($ 12,500, over six times the highest estimate). Also noteworthy are the four pieces of the legendary Verdura, led by a pair of “Byzantine” earrings with citrines and rhodolites.

Gem set and diamond pendant necklace, Cartier
Gem set and diamond pendant necklace, Cartier
White gold and diamond charm bracelet, Cartier
White gold and diamond charm bracelet, Cartier
Two pairs of enamel and diamond earclips,David Webb
Two pairs of enamel and diamond earclips,David Webb
Peridot necklace, Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & co
Peridot necklace, Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & co
Pair of turquoise, sapphire and diamond earclips, David-Webb
Pair of turquoise, sapphire and diamond earclips, David-Webb
Pair of gold and diamond Frivole earclips and necklace, Van Cleef & Arpels
Pair of gold and diamond Frivole earclips and necklace, Van Cleef & Arpels
Pair of gold and diamond earclips, Verdura
Pair of gold and diamond earclips, Verdura
Pair o citrine and rhodolite garnet byzantine earclips, Verdura
Pair o citrine and rhodolite garnet byzantine earclips, Verdura
Gold cuff bracelet, David Webb
Gold cuff bracelet, David Webb
Gold and turquoise cuff bracelet, Buccellati
Gold and turquoise cuff bracelet, Buccellati
Gold and ruby cuff bracelet, David Webb
Gold and ruby cuff bracelet, David Webb
Gold and enamel cuff bracelet, David Webb
Gold and enamel cuff bracelet, David Webb







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