WhatsApp
Email
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
April Matteini
Senior vice president and head of jewelry, Freeman’s
“My most memorable lot for 2025 is a coral, diamond, and emerald suite by Van Cleef & Arpels from a Palm Beach estate. The 1975 design is an iconic one, and individual pieces in various colorways appear in several famous collections. The decision was made early on to sell the set together, and it was gratifying to see the market agree.”
Jean Ghika
Global director of jewelry, Bonhams
“It must be the Astor turquoise-and-diamond tiara by Cartier, formerly owned by Nancy, Viscountess Astor. The tiara, which Lord Astor originally purchased for his wife in December 1930, is a rare surviving example of Cartier’s workmanship and design prowess from the Art Deco period. Drawing inspiration from Egyptian, Indian and Persian motifs, with distinctive fluted scrolling terminals and a series of carved turquoise leaves, it demonstrated the bold and innovative design elements with which Cartier is so synonymous. It had not been seen on the market since Lord Astor purchased it from Cartier in 1930, so it was unsurprising that it achieved a selling price of $1.2 million.”
Claibourne Poindexter
Head of jewelry for the Americas, Christie’s
“The Marie‑Thérèse Pink is a jewel that unites centuries of history with the brilliance of modern artistry. Once owned by Marie Antoinette’s daughter and later reimagined by JAR, it embodies both royal provenance and contemporary design at the highest level. Achieving $14 million and ranking among the top three prices for a jewel at auction in 2025, this extraordinary ring reflected the enduring power of exceptional craftsmanship, storied heritage, and the timeless appeal of diamonds. We are thrilled with the result achieved for such a landmark treasure, and proud to have shared this historic moment with our clients and the global collecting community.”
Jill Burgum
Executive director of fine jewelry, Heritage Auctions
“My pick of the year is the waiter bunny brooch. Inspired by an Art Deco Raymond Yard design, this charming, charismatic piece made me happy, inspired me and delighted everyone, its irresistible appeal translating into a final sale price double the original estimate.”
Main image, from left: April Matteini, Jean Ghika, Claibourne Poindexter and Jill Burgum. (Freeman’s; Bonhams; Christie’s; Heritage Auctions)
