Bonhams' New York Fine Jewellery auction, featuring the private Collection of Laura Speiser, made more than $2.86 million on October 19.
Featuring pieces by the legendary British Royal jeweller Andrew Grima, this was the first auction to focus on the designer's work since his death in 2007.
"We were privileged to be selected to sell the Laura Speiser jewellery collection. The family chose Bonhams following the advice of the Grima family," said Matthew Girling, Worldwide Jewellery Director.
"Bonhams was the first auction house to hold a sale with a section dedicated to the work of Andrew Grima on December 7, 2006, and we have established the market for his work as an internationally renowned designer.
"The sale was previewed in our London headquarters in New Bond Street and the family are delighted with the 100% sold results we achieved for them. This sale further cements our reputation in this important post-war jewellery design market."
Consisting of 35 designs, the sale was highlighted by a circa 1988 emerald and diamond ring.
It features a cut-cornered, square-cut 11.35-carat emerald 'pool' within a surround of round brilliant-cut diamonds, completed by a textured gold mount by Grima. Estimated at $20,000-30,000, the ring sold for $33,550.
 An emerald and diamond ring by Andrew Grima, sold for $33,550 |
Additional lots of note included a cultured pearl and diamond collar necklace and ear clips by Grima (estimated at $12,000-15,000) sold for $29,280,
Elsewhere, a green tourmaline and diamond 'sunburst' brooch designed exclusively for Queen Elizabeth II appeared estimated at $8,000-10,000. Presented by the Queen to Madame Pompidou in 1972 on a State Visit to France, it eventually brought $24,400.
"The most exciting aspect of today's sale was the strong result," said Susan Abeles, US Jewellery Director.
"We experienced fierce bidding in the saleroom as well as on the telephone generated by the simulcast auction between New York, LA and San Francisco.
"A wide range of patrons and new bidders fought from across the globe from five different continents to purchase estate and contemporary property," she said.
"The day-long event boasted a renewed interest in Art Deco and Arts and Crafts pieces, as well as works by Andrew Grima, which were featured within the Speiser Collection."
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