If you love diamonds of all shapes and sizes and have a cool million left after your 401k tanked this year, you may consider investing in the currently under-priced fine and collector jewelry available at many upcoming auctions. The declining economy has affected diamond prices somewhat, especially those of collectible or historical value.Many high-income individuals prefer to invest in things such as rare diamonds during a time of economic stress, hoping to gain value when the economy bounces back. If this describes your situation, you’d be interested to know of the upcoming sales that will include the following items:
A pear-shaped diamond ring totaling 30.02 carats may be just the right piece for you. Classified as D color and rated as flawless, it is set within a pink diamond band. Estimates for the cost of this item are only available upon request, so have your personal assistant research this one right away.
After determining your bidding budget, you may also want to go after the matching pear-shaped diamond pendant of 15.05 carats. This will compliment your new ring nicely, and is rated as D color and VVS2 clarity. The pros say this rock is worth a mere $700,000 to $1 million.
If you’re into rectangular, or emerald-cut diamonds, there is one totaling 32.72 carats for sale next month. It is estimated to be worth $1.4 to $1.8 million, and is classified as D color and VS1 clarity.
Colored diamond lovers will create a knock-down drag-out fight over the “chameleon” grayish yellowish green briolette-cut diamond pendant and necklace. Estimated at $800,000 to $1.2 million, this rock weighs in at 19.13 carats; its colors change when subjected to heat or darkness for a time – thus its namesake.
Other items available for sale include jewels bearing designer signatures and vintage jewels, including an elephant encrusted with multiple gems and antique ivory detail. It’s estimated to be circa 1900. It is believed to be an Indian relic that served as a symbol of power and prestige, most likely owned by an important family, and is estimated to be worth $80,000 to $120,000. Chrysoberyl eyes, pearl tassels, gold toenails and a purple velvet case all contribute to the richness of this little guy that wants to come home with whoever has deep enough pockets.
Some of the most popular auction jewelry items include vintage and antique diamonds, colored gems that are signed by designers and famous jewelry makers, and a whole host of items classified under belle époque, art nouveau, retro and contemporary styles.
Now that reality has set in, let’s consider what many of us will actually look for in a jewelry auction that fits our budget. When it’s time to buy a new diamond or other gemstone, you’d better know exactly what you’re looking for before you arrive at the showing table and start to get starry-eyed.
First, consider what type of piece you’re looking for. Are you searching for an estate diamond or collectible item? Or, perhaps you want a piece that has a history attached to it. Limited edition styles or rare and classic diamond cuts can be found for less if you’re interested in a stone not found in today’s jewelry stores.
Perhaps you’re looking for a loose diamond that will be used to create a unique piece or placed in a setting you currently own. If this is the case, take your setting with you to compare different shapes and colors of diamonds that you may be interested in bidding on.
If you have an antique pair of earrings that grandma left you in her will, you might also want to look for a coordinating piece that is made of the same metal or incorporates some of the same stones or colors. Antique designs are also very popular in the jewelry stores currently, so you may be able to find a suitable match online as well.
Of course, attending an auction offering much-too-expensive diamonds that you can only dream of owning would still be an experience in itself. Celebrity-owned jewelry, large carat weights and rare colors or chameleon stones might never be seen so close up anywhere else.
It’s quite evident that at least part of the population is not hurting for ‘play’ money, and will most likely continue to consume these high-end diamonds. Avid collectors that are accustomed to the responsibility that comes with owning one of these rocks would probably take much better care of them, too. We might simply throw it on and wear it to the little league game on Saturday, then feign surprise when the thing comes up missing.
If you’re lucky enough to ever acquire antique or vintage collectible jewelry, be sure to maintain it properly and have an esteemed jeweler check your setting and state of the diamonds on a regular basis. You don’t want to risk losing these – they’re impossible to replace!
Related Posts: