Inside Christie’s First Jewelry Sale of the Year

Christie’s today wrapped up its highly anticipated Jewels Online sale, a 10-day event that was led by a Tiffany & Co. 10.02 ct. diamond ring (pictured), which achieved $520,700.

The Christie’s sale happened at a time of continued demand for investment-grade diamonds and signed heritage pieces. Lots in Jewels Online featured vibrant colored stones, oversize diamonds, and signed jewels from prestigious houses including Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, David Webb, and Seaman Schepps.

Among the top earners was a 10.17 cts. t.w. pair of diamond stud earrings that realized $393,700.

Ring in platinum with 4.74 oval step-cut sapphire and epaulette-cut diamonds, estimate $120,000–$180,000

Highlights with notable provenance included a ruby and diamond necklace and earrings set formerly owned by Elizabeth Taylor, which went into the sale estimated at $15,000 to $20,000 but achieved nearly $108,000, as well as a 1950s Cartier gold and diamond evening bag that realized $24,130 (estimate of $10,000 to $15,000).

The “Stylish Jewels From a Distinguished Collector” section of Christie’s sale presented 18 signed pieces, primarily by Cartier and David Webb. A Cartier diamond “Bamboo” necklace surpassed its high estimate of $60,000, selling for $63,500.

Hemmerle tassel earrings in bronze and 18k yellow gold with oval-cut citrine and peridot and tsavorite garnet and citrine beads

Seven lots were offered from the Collection of Yvonne Kalman, including a pair of 15+ ct. diamond cluster earrings that sold for $82,550—more than four times the high end of its estimate, $15,000 to $20,000.

Contemporary craft was well-represented by a pair of Hemmerle multi-gem tassel earrings that went for $44,450 (estimated at $30,000 to $50,000).

(Photos courtesy of Christie’s Ltd. 2026)