Christie’s is set to auction a stunning Colombian emerald brooch, once owned by the renowned socialite Nina Dyer. This extraordinary piece, initially sold at Christie’s in 1969, will return to the auction block on 12th November, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the auction house’s 55-year history in Switzerland.
Commissioned by Prince Aga Khan from Cartier Paris in 1960 and gifted to his wife Nina Dyer, the brooch features a magnificent 37-carat emerald, accented by a row of diamonds. Its elegant design and exceptional gemstone make it a true masterpiece of jewellery craftsmanship.
The brooch has a rich history, having passed through the hands of renowned jewellers Van Cleef & Arpels and Harry Winston. It is estimated to fetch between $6 million and $8 million.
Max Fawcett, Christie’s Head of Jewellery Europe, commented, “The emerald brooch is not just a piece of jewellery; it carries with it the stories and charm of a bygone era. We are thrilled to present it once again, not only because of its history but also due to the increased interest in coloured stones the market has witnessed in recent years. This 37 carat Colombian emerald shows no indications of clarity modification and is accompanied by an SSEF report stating the exceptional quality and rarity of the stone. We believe it will attract a high level of interest from clients globally.”
The Sassoon family from Mumbai circa 1830s, known for their discerning taste and passion for fine jewellery, is offering a collection of exceptional pieces, including a magnificent Art Deco diamond necklace signed by Cartier London, estimated to fetch between $1 million and $1.5 million.
The Sassoon family’s history is intertwined with the rise of global trade and commerce. Originating in Baghdad, the family expanded their influence to Mumbai, Kolkata, Karachi, China, Japan, Myanmar and Malaysia.