Submitted by aarAdmin on Wed, 04/02/2014 - 00:00
Princess cut diamond earrings weighing more than five carats each were the highlight of Sotheby’s Australia April 1 jewellery sale, changing hands for $146,400 in an auction that totalled more than $1 million.
It was the first time the company had held an auction at its new premises in 41 Exhibition Street, Melbourne.
The auction realized 74 per cent by volume and 58 per cent by value and diamonds continued to prove popular with bidders.
A pair of diamond studs reached $26,840 and property from the estate of the late Dr Jan Altmann was strongly contested - with particular interest in diamond and opal pieces.
An opal and diamond bracelet (estimate $2500-$3500) exceeded expectations with a sale result of $11,500, almost tripling its high estimate.
The diamond and sapphire ring from the estate achieved a strong result of $29,280 on a high $30,000 estimate – and the Patek Philippe & Cie gold, enamel and pearl set pendant watch sold for $26,840 more than double its low estimate.
Interest in signed pieces was overwhelming with a an 18-carat gold “Dogwood’ necklace signed by Tiffany & Co selling for $13,420 and a signed Bulgari diamond “Nuvole” necklace set with diamonds changing hands for $54,900.
