World’s most expensive jewels glitter in New York

An object of beauty and desire, a jewel also provides a perfect reflection of the personality, lifestyle and tastes of the owner. Jewelry auctions are not a 20th-century phenomenon, but over the past few decades we have seen a wealth of the world’s most fabulous jewels, once owned by some of the most notable personalities of the century, pass through the salesrooms.


Earlier this week, Sotheby’s held an auction of “Magnificent Jewels”, which raised a rather magnificent $60.5 million. Not to be outdone Christie’s, in New York, held a jewelry auction the following day, amassing $65.8 million in sales - with one diamond ring alone selling for $10.9 million.

Many of these jewels were formerly in the possession of members of royalty, the aristocracy, high society and the stars of the screen.

In each instance, whether it was one piece or a whole collection, the designated jewelry gives us a fascinating insight into the life and times of the owner as well as the opportunity to see some of the finest gemstones and the most stunning jewels created in the 20th century.