24ct. Diamond to Lead Bonhams Auction

RAPAPORT... Bonhams will spotlight a 24.31-carat diamond at its upcomingFine Jewels sale in London, estimating it will fetch $1.7 million to $2.3million. The step-cut, D-color, internally flawless diamond belongsto aprivate collector, and will come to auction for the first time on December 5. The sale will feature several Kashmir sapphires, including acushion-shaped, 8.08-carat sapphire ring with diamonds, with a presale estimate of$390,000 to $520,000. A cushion-shaped, 9.29-carat sapphire ring featuring brilliant-cut and baguette-cut diamonds, valued at $280,000 to$360,000, will also go under the hammer. In addition, a collection of jewelry by Van Cleef &Arpels will be up for sale, including three Art Deco, gem-set bracelets estimatedat $90,000 to $130,000. Bonhams will auction several of the luxury jeweler'srenowned "mystery-set" pieces, which give the illusion that the stones arebeing suspende, with no visible prongs. Image: The 24.31-carat diamond. (Bonhams)