A ruby and diamond necklace, sold for US$2,178,000. Image courtesy of Bonhams
NEW YORK – Bonhams presented its Exceptional Jewels, New York auction on June 8, 2026. The curated sale showcased an array of diamonds, colored diamonds and colored gemstones alongside an exceptional selection of signed jewelry. The collection featured pieces from some of the world’s most renowned houses, including Harry Winston, Chaumet, Bulgari, Graff, Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Oscar Heyman, Taffin, and J.E. Caldwell, reflecting a rich heritage of design, craftsmanship, and color.
The 153-lot sale achieved US$9,476,620 with 78% sold by lot and 98% sold by value.
The top lot was a ruby and diamond necklace, centering an oval-shaped ruby of Burma origin, weighing approximately 5.02 carats, within a surround of alternating baguette and round brilliant-cut diamonds, to a graduated diamond necklace of similar design. Estimated total diamond weight 39.00 carats. The necklace achieved US$2,178,000 more than 20 times its pre-sale estimate of US$100,000-150,000.
The other standout lot was an unmounted Paraiba-type tourmaline. Oval‑shaped, of Mozambique origin, and weighing 30.61 carats, the present lot is accompanied by a hexagonal frame to a link necklace. The Paraiba-type tourmaline achieved US$1,452,000 more than nine times its pre-sale estimate of US$150,000-250,000.
An unmounted Paraiba-type tourmaline, sold for US$1,452,000. Image courtesy of Bonhams.
