AuctionsApr 12, 2022
Betty White’s Wedding Ring Can Be YoursAuctionsAug 03, 2022
Elvis and Colonel Tom Parker’s ‘Lost’ Jewelry Coming to Auction
The sale includes pieces “The King” gifted to his longtime manager, as well as jewelry Elvis owned and wore on stage.
PHOTO Colonel Tom Parker’s 18-karat yellow gold Omega Constellation is one of the pieces up for auction later this month at “The Lost Collection of Colonel Tom Parker & Elvis Presley” sale. Parker was the singer’s longtime manager. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
PHOTO Gifted to Parker by “The Little Colonel” in 1971, the watch marks a significant time in Elvis’ career, as he was touring and had begun his legendary residency at the Hilton in Las Vegas. Minimum bid is $5,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Los Angeles—Jewelry belonging to “the man who made Elvis Presley”—Colonel Tom Parker—that was believed to be lost for decades is coming to auction.
Held by Kruse GWS Auctions, “The Lost Collection of Colonel Tom Parker & Elvis Presley” auction is scheduled for Aug. 27 in Los Angeles.
The sale will feature more than 40 pieces of jewelry Elvis either gave to Parker, had made for Parker, or were gifted to Parker by friends and associates in show business who were connected to Elvis.
They serve as a kind of timeline tracing the progression of Elvis’ career and sometimes tumultuous relationship with Parker, who became the megastar’s manager in 1956 and remained a confidante throughout his career.
The relationship between Elvis and Parker, in fact, is the central theme of “Elvis,” the new movie about the singer’s life starring Cartier ambassador Austin Butler as Elvis and Tom Hanks as Parker, with the movie told from Parker’s perspective.
One of the most important pieces in the collection, according to Kruse GWS Auctions, is a 37 mm 14-karat yellow gold Vacheron Constantin watch given to Parker by brothers Julian and Jean Aberbach, the founders of music publishing house Hill and Range.
The Aberbachs were instrumental in Elvis’ transition from Sun Records in Memphis to RCA Records in New York, a move that elevated him from a regional sensation to a national star and benefitted the brothers as well, as they secured the publishing rights for many of his biggest hits.
Known as the “Aberbach Watch,” the words “With love from Julian and Jean” are inscribed on the caseback.
SEE: Tom Parker and Elvis’ Jewelry
Held by Kruse GWS Auctions, “The Lost Collection of Colonel Tom Parker & Elvis Presley” auction is scheduled for Aug. 27 in Los Angeles.
The sale will feature more than 40 pieces of jewelry Elvis either gave to Parker, had made for Parker, or were gifted to Parker by friends and associates in show business who were connected to Elvis.
They serve as a kind of timeline tracing the progression of Elvis’ career and sometimes tumultuous relationship with Parker, who became the megastar’s manager in 1956 and remained a confidante throughout his career.
The relationship between Elvis and Parker, in fact, is the central theme of “Elvis,” the new movie about the singer’s life starring Cartier ambassador Austin Butler as Elvis and Tom Hanks as Parker, with the movie told from Parker’s perspective.
One of the most important pieces in the collection, according to Kruse GWS Auctions, is a 37 mm 14-karat yellow gold Vacheron Constantin watch given to Parker by brothers Julian and Jean Aberbach, the founders of music publishing house Hill and Range.
The Aberbachs were instrumental in Elvis’ transition from Sun Records in Memphis to RCA Records in New York, a move that elevated him from a regional sensation to a national star and benefitted the brothers as well, as they secured the publishing rights for many of his biggest hits.
Known as the “Aberbach Watch,” the words “With love from Julian and Jean” are inscribed on the caseback.
SEE: Tom Parker and Elvis’ Jewelry
Colonel Tom Parker’s Vacheron Constantin watch from Julian and Jean Aberbach has a 14-karat gold case and a gold-filled stainless steel stretch bracelet. The dial reads “Vacheron & Constantin,” indicating the watch was made before 1970, when the company dropped the “&.” (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
The caseback of Parker’s Vacheron watch is inscribed “With love from Julian and Jean.” Minimum bid on the watch is $5,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Elvis Presley bought Parker these custom snowman cufflinks at the Bernard Hurtig boutique in Honolulu, Hawaii. Minimum bid on the pair is $2,500. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
New York jeweler Danker & Sons made the bell medallion Elvis and Priscilla Presley gave to Parker’s first wife, Marie Mott, for the couple’s anniversary. Minimum bid is $1,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Danker & Sons name can be seen at the top of the pendant and its maker’s mark at the bottom. Priscilla is said to have personally had this piece engraved. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Hotel magnate Barron Hilton gave this 14-karat yellow gold ring with colored gemstones and diamonds (0.75 total carat weight) to Parker as a thank you for booking Elvis to perform in Las Vegas in the late ‘60s and ‘1970s, a residency that continues to shape Las Vegas entertainment today. The Hilton logo is featured at center and “COL” is engraved on the band. Minimum bid is $5,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
The auction also includes pieces of Elvis’ personal jewelry, like this 18-karat gold and diamond musical note/record ring with what is described as a “blue stone.” Minimum bid is $15,000. (Photo courtesy Kruse GWS Auctions)
Another piece in the auction commemorates one of The King’s later successes, 1973’s “Elvis, Aloha From Hawaii,” the first live performance ever telecast worldwide.
While in Hawaii, Elvis bought the colonel a pair of 14-karat two-tone gold, diamond and ruby snowman cufflinks.
A nod to Parker’s self-given nickname, “The Snowman,” the cufflinks were custom-made and even depict the snowmen smoking cigars, which Parker liked to do.
The collection also includes a number of pieces of elephant jewelry Elvis gave him—Parker, who started his career as a carnival worker, was particularly fond of the pachyderm—and a medallion Elvis and Priscilla gifted Parker’s first wife, Marie Mott, for their anniversary.
Parker was married to Mott from 1935 until her death in 1986.
The medallion is 14-karat yellow gold with ruby and diamond accents. Priscilla personally had the words “Happy Anniversary Aunt Marie Love Elvis & Priscilla” engraved on the back, said the auction house.
Related stories will be right here …
While in Hawaii, Elvis bought the colonel a pair of 14-karat two-tone gold, diamond and ruby snowman cufflinks.
A nod to Parker’s self-given nickname, “The Snowman,” the cufflinks were custom-made and even depict the snowmen smoking cigars, which Parker liked to do.
The collection also includes a number of pieces of elephant jewelry Elvis gave him—Parker, who started his career as a carnival worker, was particularly fond of the pachyderm—and a medallion Elvis and Priscilla gifted Parker’s first wife, Marie Mott, for their anniversary.
Parker was married to Mott from 1935 until her death in 1986.
The medallion is 14-karat yellow gold with ruby and diamond accents. Priscilla personally had the words “Happy Anniversary Aunt Marie Love Elvis & Priscilla” engraved on the back, said the auction house.
“This collection has been sought after by collectors and auction houses worldwide for decades and it was believed to be lost. When we were chosen to represent it, we immediately contacted Priscilla Presley who graciously reminisced about the moments each piece of jewelry represents,” said Brigitte Kruse, founder and CEO of Kruse GWS Auctions.
“I cannot state the importance of celebrating Elvis’ legacy enough and giving back to the fans is most important to me. Elvis has the most loving and adoring fans, and this is for all of them.”
Priscilla acted as a consultant and historian for the sale, contributing hand-signed letters of description.
In addition to Parker’s jewelry, the auction will include Elvis memorabilia, including personal jewelry and jewelry he wore on stage.
The auction of the “Lost Jewelry Collection of Elvis Presley and Colonel Tom Parker” is scheduled for Aug. 27 at 10 a.m. Pacific.
Interested parties can place their bids now on the GWS website as well as see additional items in the auction.
The auction takes place during the month that’s especially important to the singer’s fans. Elvis died on Aug. 16, 1977, and fans gather in Memphis, Tennessee at his former estate, Graceland, for “Elvis Week” every August to honor his memory.
It also comes as the Baz Luhrmann-directed “Elvis” biopic continues its tremendous box office run.
After six weeks in theaters, the movie has grossed $129 million in the U.S. and Canada, making it the third highest-grossing music biopic since the 1970s, according to Billboard.
“I cannot state the importance of celebrating Elvis’ legacy enough and giving back to the fans is most important to me. Elvis has the most loving and adoring fans, and this is for all of them.”
Priscilla acted as a consultant and historian for the sale, contributing hand-signed letters of description.
In addition to Parker’s jewelry, the auction will include Elvis memorabilia, including personal jewelry and jewelry he wore on stage.
The auction of the “Lost Jewelry Collection of Elvis Presley and Colonel Tom Parker” is scheduled for Aug. 27 at 10 a.m. Pacific.
Interested parties can place their bids now on the GWS website as well as see additional items in the auction.
The auction takes place during the month that’s especially important to the singer’s fans. Elvis died on Aug. 16, 1977, and fans gather in Memphis, Tennessee at his former estate, Graceland, for “Elvis Week” every August to honor his memory.
It also comes as the Baz Luhrmann-directed “Elvis” biopic continues its tremendous box office run.
After six weeks in theaters, the movie has grossed $129 million in the U.S. and Canada, making it the third highest-grossing music biopic since the 1970s, according to Billboard.
Based in Los Angeles, Kruse GWS Auctions specializes in Hollywood memorabilia, as well as fine jewelry and watches, royal artifacts and more.
Kruse is the auction house that sold Marlon Brando’s record-setting “Godfather” Rolex in 2019.
It’s also auctioned off pieces from The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll before, including a chunky 14-karat gold and diamond “Taking Care of Business” ring, which sold for more than $400,000 in late 2020.
Kruse is the auction house that sold Marlon Brando’s record-setting “Godfather” Rolex in 2019.
It’s also auctioned off pieces from The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll before, including a chunky 14-karat gold and diamond “Taking Care of Business” ring, which sold for more than $400,000 in late 2020.
More on Auctions
The Latest
EditorsJul 29, 2026
Q&A: The Past and Future of Angola’s Diamond Industry Endiama Commercial Director Elton Escrivão knows people have a lot of misperceptions about Angola. He wants to change that.
MajorsJul 29, 2026
Kevin Reilly Retires After 39 Years in the Jewelry Industry Reilly has been with PGI USA for the last 20 years, leading partnership development and professional education.
FinancialsJul 29, 2026
Kering’s H1 Jewelry Sales Up 14%Boucheron reached record sales while Pomellato found success in its signature collections.
Brought to you by
Why More Jewelry Retailers Are Hosting Turnkey Estate Buying EventsRetailers are seeking new ways to attract customers, increase traffic, and create revenue – Estate buying events are a popular solution.
Events & AwardsJul 29, 2026
Lauren Harwell Godfrey Designs a Flag for ArkansasShe was one of more than 120 American designers who created flags for the “United Flags of Fashion” project led by CFDA and Vogue.
Weekly QuizJul 23, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
ColumnistsJul 28, 2026
Peter Smith: Why Your Job Postings May Be Working Against You Smith reveals the method The Retail Smiths use to help retailers and vendors write better job postings.
FinancialsJul 28, 2026
Tiffany & Co., Bulgari Lead the Way for LVMH in H1LVMH’s jewelry and watch brands outperformed the company’s other divisions in an environment the company described as “disrupted.”
Brought to you by
Wedding Band Trends 2026: Personalization Takes Center StageColored gemstones, artisan finishes, mixed metals, and meaningful details are shaping demand in bridal jewelry.
CollectionsJul 28, 2026
Lionheart’s New Collection Unites Spiritual Iconography“Sacred Heart” features symbols like crosses, angel wings, the Star of David, and the evil eye as a representation of coexistence.
Events & AwardsJul 28, 2026
The Edge Funding 2 Scholarships Via 24 Karat Club SEUS The scholarships will go to early-career professionals looking to study gemology, bench work and jewelry design, or store operations.
SurveysJul 27, 2026
Jewelry Leads Luxury Market Amid Stabilization, Bain SaysBain & Company delved into the trends shaping the luxury market, the impact of AI, and more in its recent study.
SourcingJul 27, 2026
‘Rubies’ Goes on Display at Harvard MuseumThe exhibition reveals the gemology, geology, and cultural history of the iconic red gemstone.
Policies & IssuesJul 24, 2026
New Trump Tariffs: What They Mean for Jewelry The new sweeping slate of tariffs impacts 60 countries, including India, China, Thailand, Hong Kong, and the United Arab Emirates.
TrendsJul 24, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: Ode to ‘The Odyssey’From coin pendants to diamond shields, these old world-inspired jewels are the perfect accessory for an epic journey.
TrendsJul 24, 2026
Courtney Leidy’s Silk Cord Pendants Center Unexpected Pairings Our Piece of the Week pairs a checkerboard-cut amethyst with an ivy green silk cord.
PodcastsJul 23, 2026
Episode 7: Reinhold Jewelers on the Power of RelationshipsMildred Marcano Abrams and Yael Reinhold join the podcast to talk community connections, holiday plans, and preserving Reinhold’s legacy.
SourcingJul 23, 2026
De Beers’ Production Jumps 88 Percent in Q2 Production also was up in the first half of 2026 but is expected to “substantially” decrease in H2 as two key mines undergo maintenance.
CollectionsJul 23, 2026
Silvia Furmanovich’s New Collection Travels Back to the 1920s“Art Deco” fuses ancestral techniques, rare materials, and modern perspectives as a tribute to the optimism and curiosity of the movement.
IndependentsJul 23, 2026
Sissy's Log Cabin Opens Casino StoreThe jeweler’s newest store is inside Arkansas’ Saracen Casino Resort.
WatchesJul 23, 2026
Movado Inks Licensing Deal With Kate Spade New YorkThe watch company will design, manufacture, and distribute Kate Spade New York watches.
Policies & IssuesJul 22, 2026
Trump to Put 50% Tariff on Canadian Goods The higher tax is set to go into effect in August and will apply to loose polished diamonds as well as precious and base metals jewelry.
CollectionsJul 22, 2026
Monica Rich Kosann’s High Jewelry Is FruitfulThe “Enchanted Garden” series features a cherry, lemon, and pear that each hold a little secret inside.
IndependentsJul 22, 2026
Liljenquist Beckstead Opens Rolex New BoutiqueIt’s located in Tysons Galleria, an upscale shopping center in the Washington, D.C., metro area.
Events & AwardsJul 22, 2026
NY Now Returns in August Under New OwnershipThe show, recently acquired by Rockview Management Group, will be held at New York City’s Javits Center from Aug. 2-4.
ColumnistsJul 21, 2026
Sherry Smith: Shattering the Illusion of the ‘Either/Or’ Diamond MarketSmith offers retailers guidance on creating an environment where natural and lab-grown diamonds can both thrive.
Events & AwardsJul 21, 2026
Apollo Funds Completes Emerald AcquisitionFormer Emerald President and CEO Hervé Sedky has transitioned to the role of senior advisor.
CollectionsJul 21, 2026
Graff’s New Butterfly High Jewelry Brooches MetamorphosizeThe 12-piece capsule collection transforms from brooches to pendants.
