As autumn leaves begin to turn, September heralds a season of unparalleled elegance and opportunity for discerning collectors in the world of fine jewelry. Bonhams, a venerable name in the auction sphere, is set to captivate enthusiasts with two highly anticipated sales this month: the Fine Jewelry New York auction on September 21 and the Fine Jewelry London auction on September 26, both in 2018. These events promise a curated selection of exceptional pieces, ranging from significant estate collections to extraordinarily rare gemstones, cementing Bonhams’ reputation as a leading destination for luxury acquisitions and investment-grade jewels.
The New York auction shines a spotlight on an especially compelling collection, featuring the exquisite jewelry estate of Katherine Domyan. An internationally renowned figure, Domyan was celebrated not only as a two-time Olympic gold medalist but also as a woman of immense style and global sophistication. Her personal collection, acquired over decades, offers a unique glimpse into the life of an individual who achieved greatness both in sport and in her subsequent endeavors.
The Katherine Domyan Collection: A Legacy in Jewels
Comprising more than 60 meticulously chosen pieces, the Katherine Domyan collection spans an impressive period from the 1970s through the early 2000s. This vibrant assortment is far more than just jewelry; it is a tangible narrative, reflecting the journey of Katherine and her husband, Arpad. Their 56-year marriage saw them traverse the globe, accumulating these treasures during their travels between iconic cities like New York, the glamorous Beverly Hills, the romantic streets of Paris, and the sun-drenched French Riviera. Each piece, therefore, carries not just intrinsic value but also a rich tapestry of personal history and memorable experiences, making it particularly appealing to collectors who appreciate provenance and storytelling.
The collection is a veritable who’s who of the world’s most prestigious jewelry houses, featuring celebrated creations from legends such as Harry Winston, Van Cleef & Arpels, and David Webb. These names evoke images of unparalleled craftsmanship, innovative design, and timeless beauty. Harry Winston, often dubbed the “King of Diamonds,” is known for his revolutionary approach to setting diamonds, allowing their natural brilliance to take center stage. Van Cleef & Arpels, synonymous with Parisian chic and romantic designs, is famed for its iconic Alhambra motifs and pioneering “Mystery Set” technique. David Webb, on the other hand, made his mark with bold, sculptural designs, often featuring vibrant enamel and animalistic themes that captured the spirit of mid-century American glamour.
The sheer breadth and quality of these designers within a single estate collection are remarkable. For collectors, acquiring a piece from the Domyan estate means owning not just a beautiful jewel, but a piece of history connected to a celebrated life and crafted by masters of the art. The total estimated value for this exceptional collection has been set impressively between US$2,100,000 and US$3,150,000, underscoring its significant market value and desirability among global buyers.
A Story of Success and Elegance
Caroline Morrissey, Senior Jewelry Specialist at Bonhams New York, articulates the profound significance of this offering: “The collection tells a wonderful story of an amazingly successful woman and her husband who rose to the very top of their sporting careers and then went on to be equally successful as they built their real estate business in their new homeland of America.” This sentiment highlights the multifaceted appeal of the Domyan collection. It is a testament to the couple’s enduring love, their shared success, and their sophisticated taste, reflecting a life lived with passion and achievement. For those who seek jewelry with a narrative, this collection offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with a legacy of excellence and refined style.
London’s Luminous Jewels: A Celebration of Rarity and Color
Across the Atlantic, Bonhams’ London Fine Jewelry sale on September 26, 2018, promises an equally breathtaking array of treasures, with a particular emphasis on rare and exceptional colored diamonds. Leading this spectacular lineup is what Bonhams describes as “An exceedingly rare and exceptionally beautiful fine Fancy Pink diamond weighing 5.03 carats.” This magnificent gemstone represents the pinnacle of natural beauty and rarity, destined to attract the attention of elite collectors worldwide.
The Extraordinary 5.03 Carat Fancy Pink Diamond
The square-cut Fancy Pink diamond boasts a remarkable VS1 clarity, a testament to its internal purity and brilliance. Its estimated value falls between £600,000 and £800,000, a reflection of its immense rarity and market demand. Pink diamonds are among the most coveted and enigmatic of all colored diamonds, deriving their hue from unique geological processes that are still not fully understood. Their scarcity is compounded by the fact that the primary source of these gems, the Argyle mine in Australia, ceased operations in 2020, making existing examples even more valuable and sought after.
Emily Barber, Director of Jewelry at Bonhams UK, eloquently highlights the diamond’s extraordinary characteristics: “This pink diamond, offered at auction for the first time, possesses an exceptional combination of characteristics. It is extremely unusual to find a pure pink diamond, of even saturation, with no secondary component colors, weighing over 5.00 carats. This diamond’s significant size and elegant, unmodified square cut, coupled with its high clarity grade distinguishes it further. It is of extraordinary beauty.” Barber’s expert assessment underscores the unique appeal of this gem. The absence of secondary hues, meaning it exhibits a pure, unadulterated pink, is a critical factor in its rarity and value. Combined with its significant carat weight and high clarity, this diamond is not merely a stone but a natural marvel, an investment-grade asset that promises to appreciate in value due to its inherent scarcity and exceptional quality. Its elegant square cut further enhances its sophisticated allure, making it a masterpiece of nature and craftsmanship.
A Kaleidoscope of Color: Fancy-Coloured Diamond Three-Stone Ring
Beyond the allure of the pink diamond, the London sale will also present a captivating array of other colored treasures. Among these is a particularly charming Fancy-Coloured Diamond Three-Stone ring, dating back to circa 1910. This period piece reflects the elegance and intricate craftsmanship characteristic of the Edwardian era, often celebrated for its delicate platinum settings and emphasis on lightness and sparkle.
The ring is a harmonious symphony of color: “The central old brilliant-cut Fancy Blue diamond, weighing 0.95 carat, is set between Fancy Yellow-Orange marquise-cut diamonds, weighing 0.51 and 0.56 carats,” Bonhams detailed. This striking combination of a vibrant blue center stone flanked by warm yellow-orange accents creates a visually stunning contrast and a truly unique piece. Blue diamonds are notoriously rare, often commanding some of the highest prices per carat in the world. The addition of the Fancy Yellow-Orange diamonds further elevates its distinction, offering a sophisticated and artistic color palette. With an estimate of £80,000-120,000, this ring represents an exceptional opportunity for collectors to acquire a rare historical piece combining exquisite design with the unparalleled beauty of fancy colored diamonds. The “three-stone” design itself carries symbolic weight, often representing “past, present, and future,” making it a meaningful as well as magnificent acquisition.
Icons of Luxury: Bracelets, Necklaces, Brooches, and Rings
The London sale extends its impressive offerings to include a diverse selection of bracelets, necklaces, brooches, and rings from some of the most iconic names in jewelry history. Bonhams confirmed that pieces from Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, and Chopard will also go under the hammer. These legendary houses are synonymous with luxury, innovative design, and timeless appeal. Cartier, with its regal history and innovative “Panthère” motif; Van Cleef & Arpels, with its romantic narratives and intricate settings; Bulgari, celebrated for its bold Italian designs and vibrant gemstones; and Chopard, known for its elegant creations and ethical sourcing initiatives, all contribute to a sale that promises something for every discerning collector.
From vintage Cartier pieces that evoke the glamour of a bygone era to contemporary Bulgari designs that exude modern sophistication, the range of styles and periods ensures a rich and varied auction experience. These additional pieces provide opportunities for collectors to acquire investment-worthy jewelry from world-renowned brands, whether they are seeking a classic diamond bracelet, an art deco brooch, a statement necklace, or a unique cocktail ring. The meticulous curation by Bonhams ensures that each item, regardless of its specific category, meets the highest standards of quality, design, and provenance, making this sale a comprehensive showcase of global jewelry excellence.
A Veritable Treasure Trove for Connoisseurs
It is evident that Bonhams’ September sales in New York and London are set to be landmark events in the fine jewelry calendar. With an array of notable and delectable pieces, including a celebrated estate collection with rich provenance and extraordinarily rare colored diamonds, these auctions cater to a wide spectrum of tastes and investment strategies. From the historical significance of Katherine Domyan’s jewels to the breathtaking rarity of the 5.03 carat Fancy Pink diamond and the colorful artistry of the three-stone ring, each offering presents a unique opportunity.
For connoisseur buyers and astute investors alike, these sales represent more than just an opportunity to acquire beautiful objects; they are a chance to own a piece of history, a work of art, and a tangible asset of enduring value. Bonhams continues to uphold its reputation for sourcing and presenting the finest jewels, making these September auctions a veritable treasure trove for anyone passionate about the world of high jewelry. Prospective buyers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive catalogs and engage with Bonhams’ specialists to truly appreciate the depth and beauty of the collections on offer.
News Source: gjepc.org