The announcement coincided with its full-year results, with growth driven by its jewelry brands.
The top 10 lots from the ‘Bunny’ Mellon sale
Leading the sale of jewelry that once belonged to the horticulturist, art collector and philanthropist was a 9.75-carat fancy vivid blue diamond that set two world auction records.
The stone, which was renamed the “Zoe Diamond” by its Hong Kong purchaser, was part of the “Property from the Collection of Mrs. Paul Mellon: Jewelry & Objects of Vertu” sale at Sotheby’s New York on Thursday and Friday.
Mellon, whose real name was Rachel, was a well-known horticulturist, art collector and philanthropist, and was the second wife of wealthy horse breeder Paul Mellon. She died earlier this year at the age of 103.
The auction of her belongings totaled $45 million, more than doubling its pre-sale estimate. It was 97 percent sold by lot and 100 percent sold by value, according to Sotheby’s, with 85 percent of the lots exceeding their high estimates.
Other top lots in the sale included a fancy blue diamond pendant that doubled its pre-sale estimate when it sold for $3 million, and a gold and diamond rivière necklace by Cartier that also doubled its early estimates by garnering $2.8 million.
Two gold, sapphire, diamond, and ruby bracelets also went up on the auction block--one signed by Cartier sold for $989,000, and the other (unsigned) sold for $557,000. A gold, enamel and gem-set Verdura table ornament sold well over its estimate of $10,000 to $15,000 when it garnered $221,000.
Rounding out the top 10 were a platinum, ruby and diamond bracelet for $149,000; an 18-karat gold, platinum, fancy yellow diamond and diamond bracelet from Black Starr & Frost that also sold for $149,000; a gold, rock crystal, and gem-set rhinoceros that sold for $143,000; and an 18-karat gold, platinum, citrine, and diamond Cartier bracelet that sold for $137,000.
The full list of results can be found on the Sotheby’s website.
The Latest
Looking ahead, the retailer said it sees “enormous potential” in Roberto Coin’s ability to boost its branded jewelry business.
Jewelry trade show veterans share strategies for engaging buyers, managing your time effectively, and packing the right shoes.
Despite the rising prices, consumers continue to seek out the precious metal.
Despite the absence of “The Allnatt,” Sotheby’s Geneva jewelry auction totaled $34 million, with 90 percent of lots sold.
Lilian Raji gives advice to designers on how to make the most of great publicity opportunities.
The mining company wants to divest its 70 percent holding in the Mothae Diamond Mine in an effort to streamline its portfolio.
Tradeshow risks are real. Get tips to protect yourself before, during and after and gain safety and security awareness for your business.
Why do so many jewelers keep lines that are not selling? Peter Smith thinks the answer lies in these two behavioral principles.
The “Argyle Phoenix” sold for more than $4 million at the auction house’s second jewels sale.
The annual list recognizes young professionals making an impact in jewelry retail.
Owner David Mann is heading into retirement.
While overall sales were sluggish, the retailer said its non-bridal fine jewelry was a popular choice for Valentine’s Day.
The mining giant also wants to offload its platinum business as part of an overhaul designed to “unlock significant value.”
Christie's is selling one of the diamonds, moving forward with its Geneva jewelry auction despite the cyberattack that took down its website.
The ad aims to position platinum jewelry as ideal for everyday wear.
Retailers can customize and print the appraisal brochures from their store.
The move follows a price-drop test run in Q4 and comes with the addition of a “quality assurance card” from GIA for some loose diamonds.
The site has been down since Thursday evening, just ahead of its spring auctions.
The late former U.S. Secretary’s collection went for quadruple the sale’s pre-sale estimate.
Three fifth graders’ winning designs were turned into custom jewelry pieces in time for Mother’s Day.
Kimberly Adams Russell is taking over the role from her father, David Adams, marking the third generation to hold the title.
As a token of womanhood, this necklace depicts when Venus was born from the sea.
The deal gives the retailer control over the distribution of Roberto Coin jewelry in the U.S., Canada, Caribbean, and Central America.
Show your mother some love with a piece of fine jewelry.
The company’s Easton location will remain open.
Brian D. Fleming of Carla Corporation was elected to serve a one-year term in the role.