Editor’s Note
Christie’s recent Magnificent Jewels auction in New York realized $49.2 million, with a 97% sell-through rate. The top lot, a 5.72-carat Fancy Intense Blue diamond ring, sold for $8.8 million, becoming the second-most expensive jewel sold globally this year.
NEW YORK – Christie’s New York Luxury Week continued with its Magnificent Jewels sale. The auction achieved a total of $49.2 million, with 97% of lots sold. Global buyer participation was strong: 62% from the Americas, 21% from Europe, and 17% from APAC. The top lot was a 5.72-carat Fancy Intense Blue diamond ring, which surpassed its high estimate to sell for $8,805,000, making it the second-highest price achieved for a jewel globally in 2024.
The sale opened with MICA: THE COLLECTION OF MICA ERTEGUN. All 16 lots sold, achieving a total of $2,604,460—nearly six times the low estimate of $461,000. Over 80% of the lots sold for more than double their low estimate. Highlights included:
– A Cartier Art Deco Multi-Gem and Diamond Brooch, which sold for $1,381,000 (over ten times its low estimate).
– A Rare JAR Ruby and Diamond Torsade Necklace, sold for $378,000 (over four times its low estimate).
– A set of Old European Brilliant-Cut Diamond Earrings, sold for $352,800 (over three times their low estimate).
The Jewels as Art: Magnificent Jewels from a Private Collection section achieved $9,211,860. Key results were:
– A Suzanne Belperron Diamond ‘Tube’ Bracelet, sold for $945,000 (significantly above its $400,000 low estimate).
– A Bulgari Multi-Gem and Diamond ‘Kilim’ Bracelet, sold for $567,000 (nearly six times its low estimate).
Exceptional results were seen for colored stones and vintage signed jewels. A pair of Harry Winston Spinel and Diamond Earrings sold for $2,228,000—four times their high estimate of $600,000—making them the second-highest-priced lot in the auction.
The sale concluded with the Treasures of Love: Exceptional Jewels from a Private Collection, totaling $6,733,850. The top lot in this group was a Van Cleef & Arpels ‘Ruban Mysterieux’ Necklace, which sold for $1,356,800.
– Rahul Kadakia, Christie’s International Head of Jewelry
Christie’s Jewels Online auction remains open for bidding until December 12.
