This past Wednesday, Sotheby’s in New York auctioned a large handful of extraordinary jewels from the reclusive and eternally elegant Jayne Wrightsman. The collection consists of some of the finest jewels to come on the market in many years and includes pieces from Cartier, JAR, and Verdura. Many of the hammer prices are staggering when compared to the estimated prices. Alas, I did not bid on any of the pieces!
Pair of 18 karat gold, platinum, ruby and diamond ear clips-Verdura, 1992
Estimated: $75,000-100,000
Hammer price: $266,500
A platinum, natural pearl and diamond corsage ornament, circa 1910
Estimated: $800,000-1,200,000
Hammer price: $2,042,500
A platinum, platinum topped gold, black seed pearl and diamond necklace- Verdura
Estimated- $30,000-50,000
Hammer price: $128,500
Pair of platinum, 18 karat gold, emerald and diamond ear clips- Verdura
Estimated: $250,000-350,000
Hammer price: $446,500
Platinum, ruby and diamond wreath broach- Verdura, 1996
Estimated: $25,500-35,000
Hammer price: $59,375
A silver topped gold, conch pearl, cultured pearl and diamond brooch
Estimated: $15,000-25,000
Hammer price: $122,500
A pair of diamond Rivieres
Estimated: $800,000-1,200,000
Hammer price: $842,500
18 karat gold, emerald,ruby, spinel, cultured pearl and diamond necklace
Estimated: $175,000-225,000
Hammer price: $212,500
Platinum, carved ruby and diamond brooch with emerald pendant- Cartier, London
Estimated: $75,000-100,00
Hammer price: $674,500
Pair of platinum, carved coral, onyx and diamond ear clips- Verdura, 1996
Estimated: $7,500-10,000
Hammer price: $21,250