Christie’s is devoting a live auction and simultaneous online sale to a single collection this fall. “Exceptional Jewels & Objects of Elegance: A Connoisseur’s Collection” boasts nearly 300 lots, a combined estimate exceeding $25 million, and four decades of acquisition behind it.
The live auction takes place Nov. 10 at the Hotel des Bergues with 123 lots; an online sale runs Nov. 5–17 with another 152 pieces. The collector’s identity has not been disclosed.
The Van Cleef & Arpels section alone makes the collection significant. Eight mystery-set pieces—using the maison’s patented 1933 technique that eliminates visible prongs to create uninterrupted fields of color—lead with a ruby and diamond Oiseau Mystérieux brooch estimated at $600,000 to $1,000,000. Acquired directly from Van Cleef & Arpels in the early 2000s, it represents one of the finest known examples of a motif the house has worked with since the 1920s. A mystery-set Fuchsia brooch (est. $400,000–$600,000), ruby Cadix earrings (est. $300,000–$500,000), and sapphire mystery-set styles round out the group.
The gemstone highlights are equally strong. A 14.63 ct. fancy orangey-pink diamond ring by David Morris is estimated at $1,600,000 to $2,600,000. A pair of Graff cushion-shape emerald and diamond earrings, each exceeding 17 cts., carries an estimate of $900,000 to $1,500,000. A Bulgari Trombino ring set with a 14.38 ct. Burmese ruby is estimated at $700,000 to $1,200,000. And a Van Cleef & Arpels pair of oval sapphire earrings—weighing 20.6 and 18.99 cts.—is estimated at $600,000 to $800,000.
The decorative arts section distinguishes this collection from most jewelry sales. A remarkable group of Cartier art deco cases, drawing on Chinese lacquerwork and Japanese decorative traditions, anchors the category, alongside 18th- and 19th-century gold snuffboxes, pillboxes, and vanity cases enriched with hard stones, carved cameos, and enamelwork. A Cartier art deco laque burgauté, coral, and diamond cigarette case is estimated at $100,000 to $150,000.
(Photos: © Christie’s Images Ltd. 2026)
Follow me on Instagram: @anniedavidsonwatson
