The Aga Khan emerald brooch was sold for $USD8.8 million ($AUD13.64 million) at Christie’s during the 12 November Magnificent Jewels sale. This reportedly marks a new world record for the sale of emerald jewellery at auction.
The brooch contains a square-shaped, 37-carat Colombian emerald surrounded by white diamonds. It was a momentous occasion for the auction house – as the Aga Khan first hit the auction block more than five decades ago during the inaugural sale in 1969.
Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan commissioned the piece at Cartier in Paris as a gift for his wife. Max Fawcett, head of jewellery at Christie’s, said interest in and passion for coloured gemstone jewellery remain strong.
“The Magnificent Jewels auction was a huge success, with bidding activity on every lot from collectors all over the world,” Fawcett said.
“The market for signed vintage jewels and coloured gemstones of the highest quality is as strong as it has ever been, and we are very proud to have set a world record for the most expensive emerald ever sold at auction.”
More than 90 per cent of items at the auction were sold, returning $USD54.3 million ($AUD84.16 million).
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