Jewels and colored stones from the prestigious Mellon family — one of America’s most prominent families alongside the Morgans, Carnegies and Rockefellers — will be a highlight of Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels auction in New York on June 8.
Among the items are signature pieces from Cartier and David Webb from the collection of Constance Prosser Mellon and Constance Barber Mellon — a mother and daughter who were known for their sense of style in fashion and jewelry.
“It is a privilege not only to present these exquisite jewels from their personal collection to the world but also to shine a spotlight on their philanthropic endeavors throughout their lifetime,” said Catharine Becket, head of the Magnificent Jewels auction.
At the heart of the collection is a sapphire and diamond necklace created by Cartier in the 1950s with an estimated price of $2.5 million to $3.5 million and adorned with five Kashmir sapphires, a similar style of which was owned by Elizabeth Taylor.
In addition, the collection features a sapphire and diamond ring with an estimated price of $1.5 million to $2.5 million, a family heirloom passed down by matriarchs of the family. The rare sapphire is of Classic Burmese origin, with an emerald-cut central gem flanked by two diamond baguettes.
Ten years ago, another collection from the Mellon family — Mrs. Paul “Bunny” Mellon — broke auction records.