Emerald-cut diamond platinum ring shines at Leslie Hindman Auction

A brilliant art-deco brooch and an emerald-cut diamond platinum ring beat all expectations in California

The strength and international appeal of investment-grade diamonds were clear in the strong prices realised for Leslie Hindman Auctioneers' December 4-5 Fine Jewelry and Timepieces auction. Internet live bidding for the event was provided by LiveAuctioneers.

An impressive 10.56-carat emerald-cut diamond drew interest from a diverse group of collectors and exceeded all expectations by realising $632,000 against an estimate of $300,000-$350,000. Other large diamonds in the sale also outperformed their estimates, including a 5.69-carat pear-shape diamond which sold for $115,900 and a 6.93-carat marquise-cut stone that brought $59,780.

Combining fine Colombian emeralds and diamonds with exquisite Art Deco aesthetics, a platinum, emerald and diamond bracelet achieved an impressive $436,000. The bracelet attracted more than 20 serious collectors, both foreign and domestic, in the most heavily contested lot of the sale.

Emerald cut diamond platinum ring

Vintage jewelry signed by important makers attracted international interest. A selection from Cartier drew stellar results and included a rare pair of Tutti Frutti earclips that sold for $63,440 against an estimate of $15,000-$20,000. An Art Deco platinum, diamond and rock crystal brooch, one of Cartier's more iconic designs, brought $51,240, while a Cartier platinum charm bracelet realized $36,600.

The sale offered the rare opportunity to acquire sought-after works by artist Daniel Brush. The selections, from the Ralph Esmerian Collection, included an intricate mastodon ivory, ebony and gold necklace that achieved $61,000; as well as a textured steel and gold sculpture that sold for $48,800.

A strong timepiece session was highlighted by vintage complications and premier manufacturers. An antique 18K yellow gold minute repeating chronograph pocket watch brought $8,540 and an 18K yellow gold Cartier roadster watch was bid to $15,860. A pair of Patek Philippe references also met with eager bidding when a vintage yellow gold Ref. 2526 sold for $18,300 and a yellow gold Travel Time Calatrava realized $13,420.

In total, 181 lots (16% average over the two days) were purchased via the Internet through LiveAuctioneers.com. There were 846 registered online bidders, who placed 954 bids during the sale.

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Images: Leslie Hindman