AuctionsApr 12, 2022
Betty White’s Wedding Ring Can Be YoursAuctionsAug 03, 2022
Elvis and Colonel Tom Parker’s ‘Lost’ Jewelry Coming to Auction
The sale includes pieces “The King” gifted to his longtime manager, as well as jewelry Elvis owned and wore on stage.
PHOTO Colonel Tom Parker’s 18-karat yellow gold Omega Constellation is one of the pieces up for auction later this month at “The Lost Collection of Colonel Tom Parker & Elvis Presley” sale. Parker was the singer’s longtime manager. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
PHOTO Gifted to Parker by “The Little Colonel” in 1971, the watch marks a significant time in Elvis’ career, as he was touring and had begun his legendary residency at the Hilton in Las Vegas. Minimum bid is $5,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Los Angeles—Jewelry belonging to “the man who made Elvis Presley”—Colonel Tom Parker—that was believed to be lost for decades is coming to auction.
Held by Kruse GWS Auctions, “The Lost Collection of Colonel Tom Parker & Elvis Presley” auction is scheduled for Aug. 27 in Los Angeles.
The sale will feature more than 40 pieces of jewelry Elvis either gave to Parker, had made for Parker, or were gifted to Parker by friends and associates in show business who were connected to Elvis.
They serve as a kind of timeline tracing the progression of Elvis’ career and sometimes tumultuous relationship with Parker, who became the megastar’s manager in 1956 and remained a confidante throughout his career.
The relationship between Elvis and Parker, in fact, is the central theme of “Elvis,” the new movie about the singer’s life starring Cartier ambassador Austin Butler as Elvis and Tom Hanks as Parker, with the movie told from Parker’s perspective.
One of the most important pieces in the collection, according to Kruse GWS Auctions, is a 37 mm 14-karat yellow gold Vacheron Constantin watch given to Parker by brothers Julian and Jean Aberbach, the founders of music publishing house Hill and Range.
The Aberbachs were instrumental in Elvis’ transition from Sun Records in Memphis to RCA Records in New York, a move that elevated him from a regional sensation to a national star and benefitted the brothers as well, as they secured the publishing rights for many of his biggest hits.
Known as the “Aberbach Watch,” the words “With love from Julian and Jean” are inscribed on the caseback.
SEE: Tom Parker and Elvis’ Jewelry
Held by Kruse GWS Auctions, “The Lost Collection of Colonel Tom Parker & Elvis Presley” auction is scheduled for Aug. 27 in Los Angeles.
The sale will feature more than 40 pieces of jewelry Elvis either gave to Parker, had made for Parker, or were gifted to Parker by friends and associates in show business who were connected to Elvis.
They serve as a kind of timeline tracing the progression of Elvis’ career and sometimes tumultuous relationship with Parker, who became the megastar’s manager in 1956 and remained a confidante throughout his career.
The relationship between Elvis and Parker, in fact, is the central theme of “Elvis,” the new movie about the singer’s life starring Cartier ambassador Austin Butler as Elvis and Tom Hanks as Parker, with the movie told from Parker’s perspective.
One of the most important pieces in the collection, according to Kruse GWS Auctions, is a 37 mm 14-karat yellow gold Vacheron Constantin watch given to Parker by brothers Julian and Jean Aberbach, the founders of music publishing house Hill and Range.
The Aberbachs were instrumental in Elvis’ transition from Sun Records in Memphis to RCA Records in New York, a move that elevated him from a regional sensation to a national star and benefitted the brothers as well, as they secured the publishing rights for many of his biggest hits.
Known as the “Aberbach Watch,” the words “With love from Julian and Jean” are inscribed on the caseback.
SEE: Tom Parker and Elvis’ Jewelry
Colonel Tom Parker’s Vacheron Constantin watch from Julian and Jean Aberbach has a 14-karat gold case and a gold-filled stainless steel stretch bracelet. The dial reads “Vacheron & Constantin,” indicating the watch was made before 1970, when the company dropped the “&.” (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
The caseback of Parker’s Vacheron watch is inscribed “With love from Julian and Jean.” Minimum bid on the watch is $5,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Elvis Presley bought Parker these custom snowman cufflinks at the Bernard Hurtig boutique in Honolulu, Hawaii. Minimum bid on the pair is $2,500. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
New York jeweler Danker & Sons made the bell medallion Elvis and Priscilla Presley gave to Parker’s first wife, Marie Mott, for the couple’s anniversary. Minimum bid is $1,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Danker & Sons name can be seen at the top of the pendant and its maker’s mark at the bottom. Priscilla is said to have personally had this piece engraved. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Hotel magnate Barron Hilton gave this 14-karat yellow gold ring with colored gemstones and diamonds (0.75 total carat weight) to Parker as a thank you for booking Elvis to perform in Las Vegas in the late ‘60s and ‘1970s, a residency that continues to shape Las Vegas entertainment today. The Hilton logo is featured at center and “COL” is engraved on the band. Minimum bid is $5,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
The auction also includes pieces of Elvis’ personal jewelry, like this 18-karat gold and diamond musical note/record ring with what is described as a “blue stone.” Minimum bid is $15,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Another piece in the auction commemorates one of The King’s later successes, 1973’s “Elvis, Aloha From Hawaii,” the first live performance ever telecast worldwide.
While in Hawaii, Elvis bought the colonel a pair of 14-karat two-tone gold, diamond and ruby snowman cufflinks.
A nod to Parker’s self-given nickname, “The Snowman,” the cufflinks were custom-made and even depict the snowmen smoking cigars, which Parker liked to do.
The collection also includes a number of pieces of elephant jewelry Elvis gave him—Parker, who started his career as a carnival worker, was particularly fond of the pachyderm—and a medallion Elvis and Priscilla gifted Parker’s first wife, Marie Mott, for their anniversary.
Parker was married to Mott from 1935 until her death in 1986.
The medallion is 14-karat yellow gold with ruby and diamond accents. Priscilla personally had the words “Happy Anniversary Aunt Marie Love Elvis & Priscilla” engraved on the back, said the auction house.
Related stories will be right here …
While in Hawaii, Elvis bought the colonel a pair of 14-karat two-tone gold, diamond and ruby snowman cufflinks.
A nod to Parker’s self-given nickname, “The Snowman,” the cufflinks were custom-made and even depict the snowmen smoking cigars, which Parker liked to do.
The collection also includes a number of pieces of elephant jewelry Elvis gave him—Parker, who started his career as a carnival worker, was particularly fond of the pachyderm—and a medallion Elvis and Priscilla gifted Parker’s first wife, Marie Mott, for their anniversary.
Parker was married to Mott from 1935 until her death in 1986.
The medallion is 14-karat yellow gold with ruby and diamond accents. Priscilla personally had the words “Happy Anniversary Aunt Marie Love Elvis & Priscilla” engraved on the back, said the auction house.
“This collection has been sought after by collectors and auction houses worldwide for decades and it was believed to be lost. When we were chosen to represent it, we immediately contacted Priscilla Presley who graciously reminisced about the moments each piece of jewelry represents,” said Brigitte Kruse, founder and CEO of Kruse GWS Auctions.
“I cannot state the importance of celebrating Elvis’ legacy enough and giving back to the fans is most important to me. Elvis has the most loving and adoring fans, and this is for all of them.”
Priscilla acted as a consultant and historian for the sale, contributing hand-signed letters of description.
In addition to Parker’s jewelry, the auction will include Elvis memorabilia, including personal jewelry and jewelry he wore on stage.
The auction of the “Lost Jewelry Collection of Elvis Presley and Colonel Tom Parker” is scheduled for Aug. 27 at 10 a.m. Pacific.
Interested parties can place their bids now on the GWS website as well as see additional items in the auction.
The auction takes place during the month that’s especially important to the singer’s fans. Elvis died on Aug. 16, 1977, and fans gather in Memphis, Tennessee at his former estate, Graceland, for “Elvis Week” every August to honor his memory.
It also comes as the Baz Luhrmann-directed “Elvis” biopic continues its tremendous box office run.
After six weeks in theaters, the movie has grossed $129 million in the U.S. and Canada, making it the third highest-grossing music biopic since the 1970s, according to Billboard.
“I cannot state the importance of celebrating Elvis’ legacy enough and giving back to the fans is most important to me. Elvis has the most loving and adoring fans, and this is for all of them.”
Priscilla acted as a consultant and historian for the sale, contributing hand-signed letters of description.
In addition to Parker’s jewelry, the auction will include Elvis memorabilia, including personal jewelry and jewelry he wore on stage.
The auction of the “Lost Jewelry Collection of Elvis Presley and Colonel Tom Parker” is scheduled for Aug. 27 at 10 a.m. Pacific.
Interested parties can place their bids now on the GWS website as well as see additional items in the auction.
The auction takes place during the month that’s especially important to the singer’s fans. Elvis died on Aug. 16, 1977, and fans gather in Memphis, Tennessee at his former estate, Graceland, for “Elvis Week” every August to honor his memory.
It also comes as the Baz Luhrmann-directed “Elvis” biopic continues its tremendous box office run.
After six weeks in theaters, the movie has grossed $129 million in the U.S. and Canada, making it the third highest-grossing music biopic since the 1970s, according to Billboard.
Based in Los Angeles, Kruse GWS Auctions specializes in Hollywood memorabilia, as well as fine jewelry and watches, royal artifacts and more.
Kruse is the auction house that sold Marlon Brando’s record-setting “Godfather” Rolex in 2019.
It’s also auctioned off pieces from The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll before, including a chunky 14-karat gold and diamond “Taking Care of Business” ring, which sold for more than $400,000 in late 2020.
Kruse is the auction house that sold Marlon Brando’s record-setting “Godfather” Rolex in 2019.
It’s also auctioned off pieces from The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll before, including a chunky 14-karat gold and diamond “Taking Care of Business” ring, which sold for more than $400,000 in late 2020.
More on Auctions
The Latest
CollectionsDec 05, 2025
Piece of the Week: Robinson Pelham’s ‘Tsar Star’ EarringsThe new pink sapphire version of the piece dances with its wearer in the brand’s “Icons After Dark” holiday campaign.
TrendsDec 05, 2025
Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2026 Is … WhiteA choice that’s generated a lot of commentary, Pantone says “Cloud Dancer” marks a fresh start and encourages relaxation and creativity.
MajorsDec 05, 2025
Stuller Releases ‘Wrapped in Wonder’ CampaignThe manufacturer’s holiday campaign features a gift guide filled with trending designs and jewelry that can be personalized.
Brought to you by
Impacting Tomorrow TodayHow Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.
CrimeDec 04, 2025
Man Arrested After Allegedly Swallowing Fabergé Egg PendantThe man was charged with theft, accused of ingesting the necklace while in a jewelry store in Auckland, New Zealand.
Weekly QuizDec 04, 2025
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
IndependentsDec 04, 2025
Step Inside JR Dunn Jewelers’ Giant New Store The Florida independent expanded its store from 8,000 to 14,000 square feet, fulfilling the vision of its late co-founder, Jim Dunn.
Supplier BulletinDec 04, 2025
Introducing Shop Natural Day: A New Movement Celebrating Natural DiamondsSponsored by De Beers Group
Brought to you by
Roseco Releases New Full-Line CatalogRoseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.
WatchesDec 04, 2025
Casio Shrinks its G-Shock WatchThe classic 5600 series G-Shock has been scaled down to about a tenth of its size, becoming a fully functioning watch ring.
Events & AwardsDec 04, 2025
AGA Announces 2026 Tucson Speaker LineupThe association’s annual conference and gala will take place Feb. 4, 2026, during the Tucson gem shows.
Events & AwardsDec 04, 2025
CBG Announces Speaker Lineup for 2026 Miami Event The January show will include a workshop for jewelry retailers on implementing AI to strengthen their businesses.
TrendsDec 03, 2025
Miley Cyrus Debuts Edgy Engagement RingFellow musician Maxx Morando proposed to the star with a chunky, cushion-cut diamond ring designed by Jacquie Aiche.
Policies & IssuesDec 03, 2025
Costco Joins Growing Wave of Retailers Suing for Tariff Refunds The retailer, which sells billions in fine jewelry and watches, is suing the Trump administration and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol.
SurveysDec 03, 2025
A Record 202.9M Shoppers Turned Out Thanksgiving WeekendBlack Friday is still the most popular shopping day over the five-day holiday weekend, as per the National Retail Federation’s survey.
FinancialsDec 02, 2025
Signet Jewelers’ Q3 Sales Up Amid Continued Focus on Lower Price PointsThe retailer offered more fashion jewelry priced under $1,000, including lab-grown diamond and men’s jewelry.
CollectionsDec 02, 2025
Briony Raymond Introduces First FragranceThe eau de parfum is held in a fluted glass bottle that mirrors the decor of the brand’s atelier, and its cap is a nod to its “Sloan” ring.
SourcingDec 02, 2025
Petra Diamonds Elevates Interim CEOs to Permanent StatusVivek Gadodia and Juan Kemp, who’ve been serving as interim co-CEOs since February, will continue to lead the diamond mining company.
MajorsDec 02, 2025
Lee Krombholz Takes Over as Chair of MJSA Education FoundationIn addition, a slate of new officers and trustees were appointed to the board.
IndependentsDec 02, 2025
RJO Welcomes Its 1,200th Retail MemberWitt’s Jewelry in Wayne, Nebraska, is the organization’s new milestone member.
SourcingDec 02, 2025
Brendan Laurs Honored With 2025 Bonanno AwardLaurs is the editor-in-chief of Gem-A’s The Journal of Gemmology and an expert on the formation of colored gemstone deposits.
CrimeDec 01, 2025
Fourth Man Charged in Louvre Jewelry HeistThe man, who has a criminal history, is suspected of being the fourth member of the four-man crew that carried out the heist.
IndependentsDec 01, 2025
Lustig Jewelers’ New Owner Is a Fellow Chicago JewelerMichael Helfer has taken the reins, bringing together two historic Chicago jewelry names.
MajorsDec 01, 2025
PGI Debuts Platinum-Filled Holiday Gift GuideThe guide features all-new platinum designs for the holiday season by brands like Harwell Godfrey, Ritani, and Suna.
FinancialsNov 26, 2025
Movado CEO Talks Tariffs, Growing Interest in Accessible Luxury WatchesDuring its Q3 call, CEO Efraim Grinberg discussed the deal to lower tariffs on Swiss-made watches, watch market trends, and more.
TrendsNov 26, 2025
Piece of the Week: Rosior’s Pumpkin RingRosior’s high jewelry cocktail ring with orange sapphires and green diamonds is the perfect Thanksgiving accessory.
IndependentsNov 26, 2025
Greenwich St. Jewelers Launches Colorful Holiday CampaignThe “Embrace Your True Colors” campaign features jewels with a vibrant color palette and poetry by Grammy-nominated artist Aja Monet.
MajorsNov 26, 2025
Serafino Consoli Names New VP of Sales, Brand Development for the AmericasLuxury veteran Alejandro Cuellar has stepped into the role at the Italian fine jewelry brand.
