A new addition to the “Heirloom” collection, this one-of-a-kind piece features 32 custom-cut gemstones.
Bidding on Bacall
Ever since I started at National Jeweler and began learning more about the auction world as we covered results from Bonhams, Sotheby’s, Christie’s, and more, I’ve been intrigued by it. By what drives people to buy, why they’ll spend a certain amount, what ends up being really popular and what that means for trends.
But most of all, I’ve been super curious about the actual auction process.
For a long time I’ve been meaning to go see it all happen in person, but I wanted it to be an auction where I was especially intrigued by what was being sold. When Bonhams announced that they were auctioning off the estate of the late Lauren Bacall here in New York, I knew that was the one for me.
On Wednesday afternoon, I trekked to the Bonhams office uptown to attend the afternoon session of day two, which included, of course, Bacall’s jewels, as well as other items like art, furniture, clothes and luggage.
I underestimated how long it would take to get through the bidding, but I am so glad I got the opportunity to see the action in person. After walking through the lots in person, I sat back to watch it all happen.
My favorite part was the back and forth of people trying to outbid each other. I loved when the auctioneers could barely get the numbers out of their mouths before someone made a higher bid.
And it was coming from every corner--the people in the seats, the people sitting in the phone section making a bid on someone’s behalf, absentee bids, and of course, the Internet. The excitement on people’s faces when they won something that they genuinely wanted was amazing, as were the angry faces being thrown around when someone was outbid.
The crowd was mostly older, which wasn’t that surprising, but I couldn’t help myself from jealously checking out the people my age who were actually bidding.
I desperately wanted to know everyone’s story in the audience--whether they were buying for business or for pleasure, what they wanted and why--but they weren’t there to talk about themselves. They were there to take home a part of Hollywood history.
I’m also intrigued by Internet bidding being a part of it, and I’d love to talk to someone about how that’s changed the game over the last decade or so. With the ability to be a part of the actual action from the comfort of your own home, I’m sure the number and scope of those involved has increased greatly.
And while I didn’t bid on anything, I was mentally making a wish list as I was perusing the catalogue and watching it all happen.
The
After recently writing a story delving into the jadeite market, I really appreciated the beauty of this ring, which seems so timeless that it could be worn over and over (it was purchased for $12,500).
These earrings came in a larger group of gold jewelry, but it was this pair that caught my eye. They were beautiful and elegant, with a rough emerald at the end to add a bit of edginess. The whole set sold for $4,000.
I’ve loved pretty much anything with camels on it since I rode one when I was studying abroad in Egypt in college. It went for $23,750, and unlike the other three pieces above, actually was one of the top 10 lots.
That’s enough jewelry for now, I think. Let’s move on to some interesting items in the other categories, shall we?
I don’t think this one needs much of an explanation. The Louis Vuitton luggage was amazing. This particular set of four hard-sided suitcases sold for $40,000.
The Latest
Last month in Dallas, David Walton pushed another jeweler, David Ettinger, who later died.
The move will allow the manufacturing company to offer a more “diverse and comprehensive” range of products.
With Ho Brothers, you can unlock your brand's true potential and offer customers the personalized jewelry experiences they desire.
From now through mid-May, GIA will be offering the reports at a 50 percent discount.
De Beers’ rough diamond sales were down 18 percent year-over-year in its latest round of sales.
Sponsored by the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show
For over 30 years, JA has advocated for the industry, fought against harmful legislation and backed measures that help jewelry businesses.
The Patek Philippe expert will serve as personal curator for the brand-focused company.
The 553-square-foot shop is aboard the Carnival Jubilee cruise ship.
NDC filed a complaint against Skydiamond for use of phrases like “diamonds made entirely from the sky.”
John Carter received the AGS’s highest honor Tuesday afternoon at Conclave in Austin, Texas.
LVMH said the company performed well despite an uncertain geopolitical and economic environment.
B&D Sales and Service held a ribbon-cutting event for its new location in Cranston, Rhode Island.
It’s ultra-feminine and filled with gold, pearls, and soft pastels.
Emily Highet Morgan and Emily Bennett have joined the agency’s team.
Its updated book for mountings is also now available.
She has been with the organization since 2010, most recently serving as its chief officer of PR and industry relations.
Joyce’s Jewelry sued the bank after cybercriminals drained its accounts of nearly $1.6 million through a series of wire transfers.
He is remembered by loved ones for his loyalty, integrity, and kindness.
Hosted by Freeman’s | Hindman, the sale will take place May 7-8.
The auction house said all 24 timepieces offered in its underground sale of rare and avant-garde watches quickly found buyers.
From lab-grown diamonds and AI to the inevitable Taylor Swift mention, here are some of Conclave’s most intriguing educational offerings.
From cybersecurity liability to trade show coverage, insurance experts share tips on how to build the right policy.
The charm is a modern rendition of the evil eye amulet that has been worn for thousands of years.
Ahead of its trade show next month, TJS awarded free registration and accommodations to one jewelry professional and three students.
By the end of this year, SRK’s diamond manufacturing complexes will achieve net zero emissions, one of an impressive array of achievements.