De Beers’ rough diamond sales were down 18 percent year-over-year in its latest round of sales.
29-Carat D-Color Diamond Breaks Online Auction Record
It sold for $2.1 million at Christie’s online-only jewelry auction, which ended Tuesday.
New York—The largest D-color diamond to be auctioned via the internet is now the most expensive jewel ever sold at an online-only auction.
The 28.86-carat D-color, emerald-cut, VVS1 Type IIa diamond just exceeded its high estimate selling for $2.1 million at Christie’s Jewels Online sale concluded Tuesday.
Overall, the auction sold 100 percent by value and 93 percent by lot, with 64 percent of lots topping their high estimates.
Christie’s said the D-color diamond began receiving bids as soon as the sale commenced on June 16, earning a total of 31 bids from four countries spanning Asia to America.
Overall, the jewelry auction’s bidders spanned 27 countries and five continents, while daily online engagement was up 70 percent from the June 2019 Jewels Online sale.
Other noteworthy jewels include four pieces from Graff that were the second, third, fourth and fifth most expensive lots sold: a 46.57-carat cascading round diamond necklace that earned $275,000; a 40.86-carat “Ladygraff” diamond watch that sold for $175,000; a “Butterfly” pink sapphire and diamond watch that earned $150,000, triple its low estimate; and a diamond and sapphire necklace that fetched $87,500.
Christie’s International Head of Jewelry Rahul Kadakia noted of the headlining diamond: “The sale of this exceptional stone established the record for a jewel sold in an online-only auction, demonstrating greater client confidence in Christie’s digital ability and online sale platform.
“We now look forward to the beginning of our live auction season for jewelry spanning all major Christie’s global sale sites, led by a $8 million fancy intense blue IF diamond of 12.11 carats offered in Hong Kong on July 9.”
Christie’s first in-person sale following the disruption caused by COVID-19 will be its Fine Jewels sale July 8 in Paris.
Following the July 9 Hong Kong sale, Christie’s will hold Magnificent Jewels sales in Geneva and New York this month, as well as an Important Jewels sale in London.
The auction house also has three online-only jewelry and timepiece sales slated for July: Diamonds That Care from July 3-13; 101 Cartier Clocks from July 7 to 21; and Jewels Online from July 22 to Aug. 6.
The Latest
Sponsored by the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show
The Patek Philippe expert will serve as personal curator for the brand-focused company.
With Ho Brothers, you can unlock your brand's true potential and offer customers the personalized jewelry experiences they desire.
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.
For over 30 years, JA has advocated for the industry, fought against harmful legislation and backed measures that help jewelry businesses.
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.
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.
Members can still sell lab-grown stones, it said, but only natural gems are allowed on the show floor.
He is remembered for his charisma, passion, integrity, kindness, and wit.
The retailer also appointed two new board members, avoiding a proxy fight from a potential buyer.
The bridal collection consists of 35 engagement rings and seven wedding bands.
The crown introduced a dozen timepieces in Geneva, including a heavy metal version of its deep-sea divers’ watch.
The family-owned jeweler has a new education section on its website dedicated to the history of diamond cutting.