A hugely important selection of jewels valued at a combined total of $80m are to auction at Christie's Geneva on May 13.

The sale includes a pair of rare Indian emerald bangles

The sale includes pieces from the personal collections of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and the Archduchess Maria Christina of Austria - wife of King Alfonso XII of Spain.

Christie's comments: "Additionally, a pair of antique emerald Indian bangles (illustrated right) are believed to have descended from one of the more prominent Indian Royal families that were known to have some of the most superb collections of emeralds in their treasury.

"They are one of the few old Indian jewels that have not been taken apart for their gem content and offer the rare opportunity to own a piece of history in its original condition."

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