Pearl and Diamond Necklace Leads Bonhams London Auction

A David Morris necklace featuring pearls and diamonds took center stage at a recent Bonhams sale in London, where it fetched GBP 40,960 ($54,894).

The piece comprises three rows of cultured pearls between diamond-set rondelle spacers, highlighted by flowers and interlocking hoops of pavé-set single-cut diamonds with a total weight of 22.25 carats. The necklace beat its GBP 35,000 ($46,906) high estimate at the July 8 Fine Jewellery, London auction, Bonhams said last week.

The top 10 pieces all surpassed their high estimates at the sale. Lots from well-known designers such as Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Tiffany & Co. also found buyers.

Other jewels that sold included a natural pearl necklace with a diamond clasp, which achieved GBP 39,680 ($53,179), bringing in almost four times its high estimate. A diamond strap bracelet from the 1930s with diamonds throughout realized GBP 38,400 ($51,463) passing its GBP 20,000 ($26,804) high presale estimate.

The auction house also offered a diamond fringe necklace featuring approximately 54.10 carats, which went under the hammer for GBP 38,400 ($51,437) surpassing its GBP 25,000 ($33,488) high estimate, while a three-stone diamond ring sold for GPB 35,840 ($48,032), beating its GBP 10,000 ($13,402) upper price.

Image: The David Morris pearl and diamond necklace. (Bonhams)