Other highlights include a superb collection of diamond and gem-set bracelets from Bulgari, Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels presented alongside a bracelet from the collection of Nancy Astor, appearing on the market for the first time
An exceptional emerald and diamond ring, estimate of £70,000-100,000. Image courtesy of Bonhams
LONDON – Bonhams has announced London Jewels, a live sale taking place on 11 December 2025. The auction will feature an exceptional selection of fine jewellery from houses including Cartier, Bulgari, Boucheron, Mauboussin, Grima, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels.
The sale will also showcase a range of fancy coloured diamonds and vibrant coloured gemstones — emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and natural pearls — presented in designs ranging from antique to Art Deco and modernist Post War jewellery.
Highlights include pieces from distinguished single-owner collections, including a bracelet once belonging to Nancy Astor, and 20 lots from the personal jewellery collection of Lady Glenconner, who served as Maid of Honour at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 and as Lady-in-Waiting to her lifelong friend, Princess Margaret.
Leading the sale is an exceptional emerald and diamond ring. The step-cut emerald of Colombian origin with no clarity enhancement, weighing 10.37 carats, is set within a surround of marquise and brilliant-cut diamonds. Offered with an
estimate of £70,000-100,000.
Another notable lot is an important diamond bracelet, circa 1870, from the collection of Nancy Astor, Viscountess Astor (1879–1964), and by descent to the present owner.
Appearing on the market for the first time, this exquisite jewel stands out not only for its craftsmanship but also for its remarkable provenance.
The bracelet has a stylish design of circlets graduating in size towards the centre, each issuing an ivy leaf via a knifewire stem, between trefoil spacers, set throughout with old brilliant and rose-cut diamonds, with an approximate total diamond weight of 36.00 carats. Offered with an estimate of £25,000-35,000.
American-born Nancy Astor became the first woman to take her seat in the British Parliament, serving from 1919 to 1945.
Having moved to England in 1905, she met fellow American Waldorf Astor, 2nd Viscount Astor (1879–1952), during a transatlantic voyage.
The couple married the following year and settled at Cliveden, their grand Buckinghamshire estate.
Renowned as one of Britain’s most influential hostesses, Nancy Astor presided over gatherings of the social and political elite before turning her energy to public service, championing temperance, welfare, education reform, and women’s rights.
Left: A diamond bracelet, circa 1870, from the collection of Nancy Astor, Viscountess Astor (1879-1964), estimate of £25,000-35,000, Middle: A diamond rivière necklace, circa 19th century, estimate of £70,000-100,000, Right: A diamond cross pendant, circa 1850, estimate of £10,000-15,000. Image courtesy of Bonhams
