The “Red Scarlet” Necklace $5.1 Million
A true masterpiece in fine jewellery, this extraordinary creation emerged from the visionary mind of renowned jewelsmith James Currens, setting the stage for an unforgettable moment in the world of luxury. The exquisite piece found its place in history during a Christie’s auction in Hong Kong in November 2012, where its captivating beauty fetched an astounding $5.1 million.
Every facet of this necklace is a testament to artistry and luxury. Adorned with 26 resplendent oval-shaped pigeon blood Burmese rubies, each possessing unique allure, the chain becomes a canvas of natural magnificence. The rubies, ranging from 1.27 to 5.38 carats, exude a vivid, captivating, and rare vibrancy.
This symphony of colour is elevated further by the accompaniment of pear-shaped and white marquise diamonds. Strategically positioned to enhance the radiance of each ruby, these diamonds form clusters that emulate the beauty of petals on a flower. The result is a mesmerising floral effect that transforms the necklace into a lei of ethereal blossoms, an embodiment of nature’s delicate elegance.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the precious gems are gently cradled by the embrace of 18k white gold and beloved platinum settings. Combining these metals accentuates the gemstones’ brilliance, creating a harmonious interplay of light and colour.
A collaboration between James Currens and Hong Kong Jeweler Fai Dee, this creation is a tribute to the art of sourcing the finest materials. The pigeon’s blood rubies, sourced from Upper Burma’s revered Mogok Stone Tract, carry a legacy of unparalleled quality, adding to the necklace’s allure.
This necklace is not merely an accessory but a work of art that encapsulates the dedication, skill, and history woven into every element. With its rich blend of gemstones, meticulous craftsmanship, and artistic vision, it’s no wonder this masterpiece commands both admiration and awe, etching its name into the annals of the world’s most coveted and cherished jewellery pieces.
The “Mrs Winston” $5.8 Million
The 2013 Golden Globes Awards ceremony was breathtaking as the elegant Jessica Alba graced the event adorned with a true marvel: the “Mrs Winston” necklace. A symbol of timeless luxury and sophistication, this cascading diamond necklace unveiled a tapestry of exquisite craftsmanship and rare beauty that perfectly complemented Jessica Alba’s allure.
With a total weight of 187.5 carats, the necklace is a breathtaking ensemble of high-quality white diamonds, most of which are gracefully shaped as pears. These precious gems descend in a mesmerising cascade from a diamond band, effortlessly drawing the eye to the piece’s heart. At the centre, three large diamonds are strategically placed, adding visual weight and emphasis to the necklace’s elegantly tapered design.
A masterpiece consisting of 207 diamonds, “Mrs Winston” refers to the refined aesthetics of the cultured 1950s. Its classic V-line structure gracefully adorns the neckline, invoking a sense of timelessness that harmoniously resonates with the red carpet glamour of the Golden Globes.
The necklace’s extraordinary value, priced at an astonishing $5.8 million, is a testament to the exceptional quality that defines it. Set in precious platinum, each diamond boasts a D, E, or F colour quality, a testament to the pursuit of excellence embodied in every facet of this creation. The result is a harmonious symphony of brilliance and sophistication that epitomises the pinnacle of jewellery craftsmanship.
As Jessica Alba adorned herself with this glorious piece, it was not merely an accessory but an embodiment of elegance that elevated her presence to that of a true Hollywood icon. “Mrs Winston” remains a testament to the enduring allure of diamonds and the artistry that transforms them into timeless masterpieces woven into the rich tapestry of history, style, and luxury.
Etcetera’s Burmese Ruby Necklace $6.4 Million
The Etcetera Burmese Ruby necklace is an undeniable testament to the world of opulent adornment, setting a record as the most expensive ruby-based necklace in history. A true masterpiece that mesmerises with its intricate design, this exceptional creation commanded a staggering $6.4 million at a Christie’s auction in Hong Kong in November 2013, etching its name into the annals of luxury.
Resembling an exquisitely crafted lace collar, this necklace weaves an ensemble of precious gemstones that capture the imagination. Comprising 87.78 carats, the chain boasts a harmonious composition of oval and white pear diamonds entwined with the captivating allure of Burmese rubies. Each ruby is elegantly linked to a wave of diamonds, and from the edge of these waves, six pear-shaped diamonds descend gracefully, creating a mesmerising drip effect that adds a touch of drama to the piece.
Their historical significance enhances the allure of the Burmese rubies. Burma, known as Myanmar, has long been revered as a top source of these crimson gems. However, geopolitical factors, including concerns about human rights violations, had cast a shadow over the nation’s gem sector. Due to these concerns, the then-Obama administration’s decision to ban the import of Burmese rubies into the US had a profound impact. The ban raised ethical questions and contributed to elevating the value of the Etcetera necklace, amplifying its allure and pushing its price to a monumental $6.4 million.
As a convergence of artistry, rarity, and history, the Etcetera Burmese Ruby necklace reflects human creativity, nature’s splendour, and the intricate interplay between global affairs and the world of luxury. Its remarkable journey through auction history underscores the complicated dance between geopolitics and the value of treasures that transcend time, space, and human endeavour.
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