Christie’s Ends 2023 with Dazzling Natural Color Diamonds

Christie’s Auction House is set to conclude the jewelry auction calendar for 2023 with a resplendent showcase of Magnificent Jewels in a live sale scheduled for December 6 at Rockefeller Center. Simultaneously, their Jewels Online auction will be open for bidding from November 28 to December 8, providing an extended opportunity for collectors worldwide. Leading the auction are the show-stopping California Sunset Diamonds, a rare pair of fancy vivid orange-yellow diamonds weighing 12.20 and 11.96 carats, estimated between $7,000,000 and $12,000,000. 

The Magnificent Jewels auction promises a breathtaking array of naturally colored diamonds, pristine colorless diamonds, and intensely hued gemstones, highlighting the epitome of rarity and luxury. Among the featured jewels are exquisite creations from renowned makers such as Buccellati, Bulgari, Cartier, David Webb, Graff, Harry Winston, Jean Schlumberger, Oscar Heyman & Brothers, René Boivin, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels, and Verdura.

The event will showcase curated selections from notable collections, including the Collection of Adolphus Andrews, Jr. and Emily Taylor Andrews, the Collection of Margaret Thompson Biddle, the Collection of Ivan and Genevieve Reitman, The Collection of Julian and Josephine Robertson, and Property from a Distinguished Palm Beach Collection.

A standout piece from the sale is the impressive 42.97-carat emerald cut Graff Diamond Ring (estimated at $500,000 – 700,000), set in platinum. Another notable highlight is the ‘Reclining Lion’ brooch by Rene Boivin from the Collection of Julian and Josephine Robertson, featuring variously shaped diamonds in multi-colored hues and an emerald mane, representing a rare and significant example of this iconic design from the designer (estimated at $300,000 – 500,000).

A treasure trove of signed jewelry from the illustrious Collection of Margaret Thompson Biddle is also available, including a Cartier emerald, diamond, and ruby brooch harkening back to the charm of 1945. This masterful piece boasts intricately carved emeralds, cabochon rubies, and natural diamonds, a testament to the timeless elegance of its era, with an estimated value ranging between $200,000 and $300,000. Equally enchanting is a Chaumet Art Deco Tiara dating back to 1930, an embodiment of the glamorous spirit of the Jazz Age, anticipated to fetch between $50,000 and $70,000.

Another highlight is the Ivan & Genevieve Reitman: A Life in Pictures collection that includes a Fancy Intense Yellow Diamond Ring, a radiant gem weighing an impressive 12.03 carats. This vivacious creation, reflecting the Reitmans’ vibrant journey, is poised for bids between $100,000 and $150,000. Another diamond ring from the Reitman collection, weighing 9.37 carats, made by legendary diamantaire William Goldberg, has a projected value ranging from $250,000 to $350,000.

The showcase continues with Jewels Online, featuring more than 300 lots of fine jewelry just in time for the holiday season. Renowned houses such as Buccellati, Cartier, David Webb, Harry Winston, Jean Schlumberger, Marina B, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels, Verdura, and more contribute to a curated selection that spans cufflinks, natural diamond rings, and other exquisite designs, with many lots offered without reserve. The online sale will be open for bidding from November 28 through December 8.

Before the auctions, the highlighted pieces will be on display in Hong Kong from November 23 to November 27, with the sales available for public view in New York from December 1st through December 5th. As anticipation builds for these prestigious events, collectors, enthusiasts, and gift seekers await the unveiling of these extraordinary jewels, marking a grand finale to the year in the world of high-end jewelry auctions.