I can't really think of a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon. I was invited to attend Sotheby's "Magnificent Jewels" Preview, which highlighted pieces available at the upcoming New York sale on April 29. It was one of two public previews the renowned auction house held in Los Angeles over the weekend. West coast customers were able to preview contemporary, modern and impressionist art masterpieces which will be available at its Spring auctions in May. And the "Magnificent Jewels" preview was an incredible opportunity to view many rare and signed pieces including a special private collection of the late singer Eydie Gorme. Many items were gifts from her husband Steve Lawrence such as a platinum and diamond Rivière necklace to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. I had the great fortune to receive a guided tour by Lisa Hubbard, Chairman of North and South America for Sotheby's International Jewelry Division. It was a Hollywood red carpet dream come true to be able to try on several of the exquisite pieces including the exceptional 28.18 Karat Kashmir sapphire and diamond ring pictured above, a stunning Tony Duquette gold and smoky quartz bracelet from the collection of Danielle Steel and an unnamed, but nevertheless show stopping emerald necklace (pictured below). Important pieces in the collection include the rare diamond, onyx and emerald Cartier tiger bracelet (pictured above) and a Fancy Intense Orangy Pink 15.23 Diamond ring valued at $6-7,000,000. This collection has made stops around the world and is on its way to Hong Kong where it will be on view before returning to New York in time for the sale. Scroll down for a look at many of the special pieces at the preview and some of my favorites. So VeryVeryChic!!
Tony Duquette gold and smoky quartz bracelet, collection of Danielle Steel $15,000 to $20,000
A Magnificent Platinum, Fancy Intense Orangy Pink 15.23 Diamond ring with diamonds, est $6-7,000,000
A stunning emerald and diamond necklace
The El Dorado Emerald and a Cartier diamond and emerald bracelet, est at $700-900,000
Cartier bracelets and a rare 28.18 Karat Kashmir sapphire and diamond ring
Cartier 18 Karat gold, colored diamond, diamond, onyx & emerald bangle bracelet, est $600-800,000