Coloured stones in high demand, says Bonhams

Following its fine jewellery auction, Bonhams has reported that coloured stones, notably rubies and sapphires, are experiencing high demand and performing better than expected. 

At the auction, a pair of Cartier Art Deco ruby and diamond clip brooches, circa 1930, smashed its pre-sale estimate of £80,000 to £120,000, selling for £482,500.

Two ruby rings also exceed their presale estimate, including Burmese ruby single-stone ring, fashioned by Van Cleef & Arpels in 1923, which sold for £350,000 on an estimate of £80,000 to £100,000.

Another Burmese ruby ring, created around 1930 and set with a cushion-cut stone weighing over 6 carats, was estimated at £50,000 to £80,000 but sold for £362,500.

Jean Ghika, head of jewellery UK and Europe, said: “We achieved some outstanding results in the sale, particularly for period jewels and coloured gemstones. The collection of Burmese rubies performed exceptionally well, proving that these rare gems continue to have an enduring appeal.”