Jewelry Highlights From the Estate of Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree

By Annie Davidson Watson | March 13, 2023

Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree was many things—president of Pacific Air Industries and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, and one of Santa Barbara’s most prolific philanthropists. She and her late husband, Paul Ridley-Tree, funded organizations with hundreds of millions of dollars throughout their lifetimes, some even carrying their name in appreciation. But Ridley-Tree stood out for contributing something arguably more valuable than money: her time. “For most of us, we have so much. How can we not give something back? Give something somewhere and give of ourselves; it’s not just money,” she once said.

On March 29, California-based John Moran Auctioneers will offer 85 lots from the late patron’s personal collection of jewels: necklaces, earrings, bracelets, brooches, and more, featuring the finest of gemstones from jewelers including Tiffany & Co., David Webb, Van Cleef & Arpels, and many others. Below are a few of the highlights from the sale—including one serious 25.8 ct. pear brilliant-cut diamond ring with an estimate of $400,000 to $500,000.