Key points
- Despite carrying a conservative top estimate of GBP 100,000, the piece ultimately sold for an astonishing GBP 597,300, reflecting fierce bidding competition and strong confidence in rare emeralds of confirmed origin and quality.
- At the heart of the sale was a ring set with a vivid 10.
- Beyond the headline emerald, the auction featured a curated selection of antique and early twentieth century jewels, including aristocratic pieces dating back to the 1800s.
Gems and Jewelry News: A remarkable emerald ring stunned the international jewelry world after achieving a hammer price nearly six times higher than its presale expectations at Bonhams’ recent London Jewels auction. The result highlights the renewed appetite among collectors for exceptional colored gemstones paired with strong provenance and refined craftsmanship.
A record breaking emerald ring leads a Bonhams auction surge fueled by rarity provenance and elite craftsmanship
Image Credit: Bonhams
At the heart of the sale was a ring set with a vivid 10.37 carat step cut Colombian emerald, framed by 1.45 carats of marquise and brilliant cut diamonds. Despite carrying a conservative top estimate of GBP 100,000, the piece ultimately sold for an astonishing GBP 597,300, reflecting fierce bidding competition and strong confidence in rare emeralds of confirmed origin and quality. This Gems and Jewelry News report notes that seasoned buyers were particularly drawn to the stone’s saturation, clarity, and classical proportions, all of which aligned with current collector preferences.
Beyond the headline emerald, the auction featured a curated selection of antique and early twentieth century jewels, including aristocratic pieces dating back to the 1800s.
The tiara formerly owned by Lady Anne Glenconner
Image Credit: Bonhams
One of the most talked about lots was a transformable diamond jewel from circa 1880 or later, formerly owned by Lady Anne Glenconner. Designed to function as a tiara, coronet, or eight individual star brooches, the piece achieved GBP 127,400, well above its estimate, driven by its noble provenance and versatility.
The Cartier ruby and diamond necklace
Image Credit: Bonhams
Another standout was a Cartier necklace from around 1935, adorned with Burmese rubies totaling approximately 11 carats alongside 22 carats of diamonds. The jewel realized GBP 229,000, underscoring the continued strength of signed pieces from heritage maisons.
What this auction clearly demonstrates is a market increasingly driven by rarity, historical relevance, and exceptional gemstones, with discerning collectors willing to push prices far beyond expectations when all three align.
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