Diamond Ring Smashes Estimate at Christie's

RAPAPORT... A Belle ??poque diamond ring sold for nearly 10 times itshigh estimate at Christie's London auction Wednesday. The piece, which was made around 1900 and features rose,single and old-cut diamonds, fetched GBP 112,500 ($143,000) against a highvaluation of GBP 12,000 ($15,200) at the Important Jewels auction. A circular-cut, 10.05-carat, E-color, VVS1-clarity, type IIadiamond ring sold for GBP 347,250 ($440,000), just below its estimate. Meanwhile, a necklace comprising old, circularand baguette-cut diamonds garnered GBP 335,250 ($424,800), beating its highestimate of GBP 250,000 ($316,800). Other notable items include a rectangular-cut, 11.29-carat,G-color, VS2-clarity diamond ring surrounded by baguette-cut diamonds, whichachieved GBP 323,250, ($409,600),well over its high estimate of GBP 180,000($228,100). An antique cushion-cut, 26.49-carat sapphire brooch from the late19th century brought in GBP 237,500 ($300,900). The piece, which issurrounded by old-cut diamonds, had been expected to fetch up to GBP 120,000($152,100). A rare tiara belonging to a titled lady from the late 18thor early 19th century nearly tripled its GBP 55,000 ($69,700) highvaluation. The silver-and-gold headpiece, with old and rose-cut diamonds, wentfor GBP 162,500 ($205,900) at the London sale. The auction brought in a totalof $7.2 million. Image: The Belle ??poque diamond ring. (Christie's)