Phillips to Offer Rare Van Cleef Zip Necklace

RAPAPORT... Phillips's Jewels and Jadeite auction in Hong Kong willfeature a rare Van Cleef & Arpels Zip necklace, one of only a few thejeweler made. The piece, which includes diamonds, sapphires and lapislazuli, is estimated at HKD 3.5 million to HKD 4.5 million ($446,4508 to$574,000). Wallis Simpson, the duchess of Windsor, initially suggestedthe design idea to Ren?(C)ePuissant, the company's artistic director and the daughter of Alfred Van Cleef,in 1938, according to legend. The final piece took thejeweler 10 years to create, debuting in the 1950s. It can be worn as anecklace, with the zip open, or as a bracelet when closed. The auction will take place at the JW Marriott in Hong Kong on November25. Image: The Van Cleef & Arpels Zip necklace. (Phillips)