Bonhams Exceptional Jewels Sale in London Totals £508,400 for Boucheron Tiara
The Facts
Bonhams presented its Exceptional Jewels, London sale on June 11, featuring an outstanding selection of period and antique jewellery from six notable single-owner collections. The top lot was the Boucheron Harcourt diamond bandeau tiara, dating from 1924 and appearing at auction for the first time since it was commissioned from Boucheron in London more than a century ago. The tiara achieved £508,400, more than double its pre-sale estimate of £200,000–300,000, and was acquired by Boucheron's Heritage Department for its private collection. Another highlight was a Cartier Belle Époque seed pearl and diamond sautoir, circa 1910, from the personal collection of opera singer Dame Nellie Melba (1861-1931), which sold for £127,400, more than double its estimate of £60,000-80,000.
The Signal
The sale reflects robust global demand for rare jewels distinguished by exceptional provenance, authenticity, craftsmanship, and historical significance, according to Jennifer Tonkin, Bonhams Head of Jewellery, UK. Strong results for coloured gemstones included a 25.48-carat cushion-cut sapphire ring of Sri Lankan origin that achieved £432,200, more than seven times its estimate, and a 5.63-carat Kashmir sugarloaf cabochon sapphire ring that sold for £292,500, more than three times its estimate. The results signal sustained collector appetite for period and signed jewels with documented histories, particularly those tied to notable figures or houses like Boucheron and Cartier.
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- People: Jennifer Tonkin, Dame Nellie Melba
- Auction Houses: Bonhams
- Locations: London
- Prices: £508,400, £200,000–300,000, £127,400, £60,000-80,000, £432,200, £292,500, £241,700, £178,200, £159,150, £121,050
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