Christie's hosted their Magnificent Jewels auction in Geneva this May 16, 2018. The highlight of the affair was clearly the stunning diamond and emerald necklace by Tiffany & Co. The necklace was likely created between 1880 and 1890 according to Christie's, one of the older pieces from the jewelry house and certainly a mark of their timeless craftsmanship.
Image c/o Christie's
Even more intriguing, the round emeralds (from Columbia) could possibly have been owned by royals, acquired by Tiffany & Co. on auction in the late 19th century. Queen Isabella II of Spain auctioned jewels off in 1878 and although not confirmed, Tiffany & Co. was in the midst of a frenzy of purchases of imperial and royal gemstones throughout Europe. Source.
Image c/o Christies
The fleur-de-lis motifs, the old-cut diamonds, the condition after 100-plus years? All these factors set this necklace up for a fantastic auction that was expected to exceed the estimated $1.2 million.
And so it did! The necklace went for the final price of $1.5 million. Congratulations to its new owner.
