116-carat Diamond Pendant Necklace Could Fetch $7m in First "Live" Auction

(IDEX Online) - Christie's first "live" auction in New York since coronavirus will feature a pendant necklace with a 116-carat diamond and a high estimate of $7m.

The central diamond (pictured) is a pear brilliant-cut diamond of 115.83 carats, F color, VVS1 clarity and the platinum necklace includes more than 50 other diamonds, of up to 5.50 carats.

The Magnificent Jewels sale, which takes place on Wednesday (29 July) is the first live auction by a major auction house in New York since the COVID-19 lockdown. 

Although it will take place in real time, Christie's will not allow in-rom bidding as a social distancing precaution.  Bids will be by phone or online, viewings are in person by appointment a.t the auction house's Rockefeller Center headquarters

Another significant highlight among the 260 lots is a 7.16-carat fancy intense blue diamond ring, with a high estimate of $5m. The diamond is pear modified brilliant-cut, natural color, IF, type IIb.

There are also pieces from prominent private collections, including signed jewels by Suzanne Belperron, Bulgari, Cartier, JAR, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels, Verdura and other noteworthy makers.