As we've reported, a rare catalogue of Henry Philip Hope's collection of pearls and precious stones will also be offered in Bonhams' Fine Jewellery auction later this month.
Published in 1839, this volume sets out his celebrated collection in its entirety, including the famous Hope Pearl and the infamous Hope Diamond, the extraordinary blue diamond of 45.52 carats, once believed to be cursed, which had been part of the French crown jewels and is now in the Smithsonian Institution in Washington.
The book is estimated at £2000-3000. However for pure jewellery collectors the highlight is clear: A magnificent late art deco diamond ring is the highlight of sale. The potentially flawless Asscher-cut diamond, weighing 6.82 carats is Type IIa and possesses D colour and VVS2 clarity.
Type IIa diamonds are the most chemically pure type of diamond and possess exceptional optical transparency. They are truly white/colourless, and do not have the faint yellowish or brownish tinges which affect Type I diamonds due to nitrogen impurities.
 Assher Cut Diamond (£150,000-200,000) |
Famous gems that are Type IIa include the Cullinan I diamond and the Koh-i-noor. This ring, estimated at £150,000-200,000, has never before been seen at auction and its colour, clarity and shape are exquisite.
The sale also features two other impressive investment-grade diamond rings: a flawless, brilliant-cut diamond, weighing 3.00 carats, estimated at £70,000-90,000 and a pear-shaped diamond, weighing 5.00 carats, estimated at £80,000-100,000.
Bonhams is also delighted to present a superb selection of antique 19th century jewellery, which is infrequently seen on the market. A late 19th century sapphire and diamond necklace, estimated at £45,000-55,000 and an early 19th century diamond necklace with circular clusters of cushion-shaped diamonds, estimated at £25,000-30,000, are both outstanding examples of their type.
A further highlight is an early 20th century emerald and diamond choker/ bracelet combination. Designed as a highly articulated series of panels of brilliant and single-cut diamonds with rectangular and calibré-cut emeralds, the choker separates to form a pair of bracelets.
This fantastic piece is estimated at £10,000-15,000. Bonhams' auction will take place in London on September 22.
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