Archive for the ‘Famous Emerald Jewels’ Category

Rothschild Emerald necklace sold at London auction

image Rothschild Emerald necklace sold at London auction

Jewels that once belonged to Hannah de Rothschild sold for $2.9million. Rothschild heiress Hannah, Countess of Rosebery was once the richest woman in Britain.

This emerald and diamond necklace along with earrings and bracelet from the ‘parure’ collection comprises of 213 carats emerald and 135 carats diamond.

These jewels were a part of inaugural jewel action that was held by Philips de Pury & Co. at Claridge Hotel, London.

Keith Penton, Head of Jewels at Christie’s said, “They are a rare survival of 19th century British splendor, as so much ancestral jewellery has been sold anonymously, remounted or broken down.”

Click here to read about the diamond and pearl tiara of Rothschild that was also sold in this auction.

Hooker Emerald Brooch

image Hooker Emerald Brooch

The Hooker Emerald Brooch as we see it now was designed by the New York Jewelers, Tiffany and Company and at present resides at the Smithsonian Institutions’ National Museum of Natural History. 

The brooch exhibits a magnificent 74.57 carat Square cut Columbian Emerald which is set in open ended circular band of platinum. The band features 109 round and 20 baguette cut diamonds.

The exact origin of the hooker emerald is not known, however it is estimated that the emerald must have been extracted from some mine in Columbia in 16th or 17th Century. The emerald initially belonged to Sultan Abdul Hamid II of Turkey (1876-1909) who wore this stunning gem in his belt.

This Hooker Emerald along with Hope Diamond was smuggled in Paris in 1908 by Sultan’s confidants. Sultan was hoping that the proceeds from the sale of these precious jewels would help him if gets deposed off from his throne.

In 1955 the Hooker Brooch was brought by Janet Annenberg Hooker, from where it got its present name. 22 years hence, Mrs. Hooker donated the brooch to the National Museum of Natural History. At that time, the brooch was estimated to be worth $500,000.

Well this is the story of the brooch, and although it looks stunning, I can’t help imagining this brooch in form of a tiara or a necklace. It would super gorgeous. What do you say?

Powered by WordPress | Designed by: Jennifer