Editor’s Note
Phillips has appointed Dianne Batista, a seasoned professional with nearly 40 years in the industry, as its new Head of Jewels in New York, along with the roles of Senior Vice President and Senior Specialist.
Phillips has named Dianne Batista, an industry veteran with nearly four decades of experience, as its new Head of Jewels in New York, as well as Senior Vice President and Senior Specialist.
Batista’s career spans auction houses, luxury retail, and consultancy, providing her with deep market insight and industry connections. Prior to joining Phillips, she served as Senior Vice President of Jewelry and Watches at Hindman Auctions since May 2024. Her previous roles include Director of Fine Jewelry and Watches at Rago/Wright Auctions, and positions at Christie’s where she assisted with high-profile auctions such as the collections of Elizabeth Taylor and Van Cliburn. She also worked as an archives manager for David Webb.
In her new role, Batista will lead Phillips’ New York Jewels team, overseeing the sourcing and evaluation of items for both live and online auctions. She is tasked with driving long-term growth strategies and expanding the auction house’s footprint in the Americas through client engagement and market development.
The appointment follows a year where Phillips’ Jewels auction totals rose by more than 50% year-over-year, after the debut of jewelry auctions in Geneva in 2023. Phillips will host its upcoming New York Jewels auction on December 11, featuring a curated collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary jewelry from well-known houses and independent designers.