PodcastsApr 15, 2026
Episode 4: The Natural Diamond DilemmaSally Morrison and Mark Klein discuss De Beers’ first beacon in 16 years and the mistake the industry made with lab-grown diamonds.
AuctionsJun 15, 2017
Historic 18-Carat Rockefeller Emerald Up For Auction
The gemstone could set a world record for an emerald at Christie’s New York next week.
This 18.04-carat emerald, which once was in the private possession of the Rockefeller family, could sell for up to $6 million at Christie’s New York.
New York--An emerald that has been in the hands of a number of Rockefellers could become a record-setting stone when it hits the auction block next week.
The Rockefeller Emerald, an 18.04-carat octagonal step-cut Colombian emerald, will lead the Magnificent Jewels sale at Christie’s New York on June 20, where it could sell for between $4 and $6 million.
John D. Rockefeller Jr. acquired the emerald in 1930, and gifted it as a centerpiece of a brooch to his wife, Abby Aldrich Rockefeller.
When she died in 1948, the emerald went to their youngest son, David Rockefeller, who then asked private jeweler Raymond Yard to design a setting for it that would highlight the quality and beauty of the family gemstone. Yard set the gemstone in a platinum ring with diamond side stones, the setting it remains in today.
No longer in the possession of the Rockefeller family, the ring is being sold at Christie’s on behalf of an American collector who acquired it more than a decade ago.
If the emerald exceeds its highest pre-sale estimate--$6 million--by enough it could become the most expensive emerald at auction, surpassing Elizabeth Taylor’s 23.46-carat emerald and diamond Bulgari pendant, which sold for more than $6.5 million in December 2011 at Christie’s.
This modified lozenge mixed-cut fancy deep grayish bluish green diamond, weighing approximately 5.01 carats, could sell for between $2 and $4 million.
This ring features a 4.42-carat cut-cornered square modified brilliant-cut fancy intense green diamond, flanked by 1.02-carat and 1-carat cut-cornered rectangular modified brilliant-cut diamonds, in a circular-cut pink diamond surround. It is expected to sell for between $1.3 and $1.8 million.
This pendant necklace by Louis Comfort Tiffany features an articulated oval-cut sapphire with circular-cut emerald and yellow-brown diamond accents and set within a decorative frame of circular-cut sapphires, emeralds, colored diamonds and enamel. It could sell for as much as $70,000.
This necklace from Van Cleef & Arpels features an 18-karat white gold “zipper” trimmed with alternating onyx cabochons and circular-cut diamonds, a diamond pull and onyx bead tassel. It’s estimated to sell in the range of $180,000 and $280,000.
The Christie’s New York Magnificent Jewels sale will feature more than 270 lots.
Among the expected top lots is a modified lozenge mixed-cut fancy deep grayish-bluish green diamond, weighing approximately 5.01 carats and set in platinum, which is expected to sell for between $2 and $4 million.
The June auction also will include a selection of exceptional fancy colored and colorless diamonds and signed period and modern jewels by Buccellati, Bulgari, Cartier, David Webb, Graff, Harry Winston, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels, among others.
The sale also is highlighted by two historically significant private collections by Cartier and Tiffany, with the latter featuring 58 pieces of Louis Comfort Tiffany and Tiffany & Co. jewels that one were part of The Garden Museum Collection in Japan.
Browse all the lots in the sale by visiting Christies.com.
More on Auctions
The Latest
MajorsApr 15, 2026
Spark Creations’ Randy McKenzie Dies at 72 McKenzie spent 45 years with Spark Creations and is remembered for being kind, dedicated, and hardworking.
WatchesApr 15, 2026
These Are the New Rolex Watches for 2026Rolex focused exclusively on the Oyster Perpetual this year, as the model is celebrating its 100th anniversary.
Brought to you by
Discover Timeless Treasures: A Showcase of Antique Jewelry & Timepieces in Las VegasGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
FinancialsApr 15, 2026
Kering’s Jewelry Shines in Q1, Gucci’s Struggle ContinuesThe luxury giant discussed the Middle East conflict and its transformation plans, hinting at a stronger jewelry presence in North America.
Weekly QuizApr 09, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
SourcingApr 15, 2026
Diamond Club West Coast Names 2026 BoardKalpesh Jhaveri was re-elected as president for a third year.
TechnologyApr 15, 2026
This Jewelry Brand’s Video Series Is Up for a Webby Award“Diamond Divas,” a social media reality series by Shahla Karimi Jewelry, is nominated in the “Best Social: Fashion & Beauty” category.
Brought to you by
Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show: Showcasing the Most Collectible Merchandise from Across the GlobeGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
De Beers Expands ‘Desert Diamonds’ Beacon Into BridalThe campaign seeks to reignite desire for natural diamond engagement rings by highlighting the “distinct character” of warm-toned diamonds.
FinancialsApr 14, 2026
LVMH’s Q1 Sales Sink 6% Amid Middle East ConflictPlus, how Saks Global’s bankruptcy affected the luxury giant’s first quarter.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
International Jade Summit to Return to MontereyPresented by Mason-Kay Jade, the summit, in its second year, will again be held during the Monterey Bay Jade Festival.
Events & AwardsApr 14, 2026
CBG Releases Details for Las Vegas ShowThe group has announced its lineup of speakers and a new “Rising Stars” pavilion.
CollectionsApr 13, 2026
Uniform Object’s New Jewelry Collection Centers on the ‘Carbon Form’The “Carbon Form” collection explores the contrast between high and low materials, using rubber cord alongside 18-karat gold and gemstones.
Events & AwardsApr 13, 2026
JA Accepting 2026 Impact Initiative ApplicationsThe program provides essential funding to organizations for projects that enhance the jewelry industry.
Events & AwardsApr 13, 2026
Couture Announces New Show in MiamiThe jewelry trade show is launching its first open-to-the-public event in Coconut Grove this November.
CrimeApr 13, 2026
JSA Offers Reward in Oregon Jewelry Store Armed RobberyJSA is seeking information about the gunpoint robbery of a Kay Jewelers location in Oregon’s Washington Square Mall.
WatchesApr 10, 2026
These Watches Have Increased in Value the Most Since 2018, Says Chrono24The top-performing watch models may be surprising, with Rolex and several popular pandemic-era picks notably absent from the top 20.
CollectionsApr 10, 2026
Ophelia Eve’s Toggle Pendant Holds Your SecretsThe “Scroll” toggle pendant, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal a hidden message, mantra, or love letter written on washi paper.
ColumnistsApr 09, 2026
Jewelry Demand Isn’t Stronger, Prices Are Just Higher Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.
MajorsApr 09, 2026
Tiffany & Co. Promotes Nathalie Verdeille to SVP, Chief Artistic OfficerIn her newly expanded role, she will continue to oversee the jewelry category, as well as watches, home, and accessories.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Jacob & Co. Rolls Out Its Sequel to ‘The Godfather’ Musical Watch“The Godfather II” watch plays two melodies from the mob film’s score, “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme.”
Events & AwardsApr 09, 2026
JCK Announces Jesse Itzler as 2026 Keynote SpeakerOrganizers have also introduced the new JCK Talks Signature Series, as well as an offering of watch-focused workshops and lectures.
SourcingApr 09, 2026
AGA To Honor ‘Quiet Leadership’ With New AwardThe Alan Hodgkinson Medal recognizes gemologists who are consistently generous with their time and expertise.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Oris Names New CEO, CFOThe Swiss watchmaker is changing up its executive leadership team as part of a restructuring.
CollectionsApr 08, 2026
Hearts On Fire Celebrates 30 Years By Asking a QuestionThe “What’s Your Signature?” campaign invites women to think about how they see themselves.
SourcingApr 08, 2026
Sale of 42-Carat Blue Diamond Gives Petra a Boost in Q3The big diamond’s sale added to the company’s revenue though the market remains “challenging” overall, particularly for smaller goods.
Events & AwardsApr 08, 2026
AGS Confluence Returns with AI, Sustainability SessionsRob Bates of The Jewelry Wire will also moderate a panel on the state of the jewelry industry during the virtual event.
