Provenance and Period Jewels Spark Bidding War at Bonhams London

By Annie Davidson Watson | December 22, 2025

Bonhams’ London Jewels sale, held on Dec. 11, underscored a robust global appetite for period pieces boasting significant historical provenance, particularly those belonging to the British aristocracy. The auction’s highlights included the personal collections of Lady Glenconner and Nancy Astor, Viscountess Astor, both of which saw prices soar well beyond their initial estimates as collectors vied for items with storied pasts.

Lady Glenconner’s antique diamond star tiara, circa 1880, (pictured at top) realized £127,400 (approximately $169,000)—more than double its presale high estimate. This versatile jewel, featuring eight diamond stars totaling 78.5 cts. t.w., was famously worn by Lady Glenconner during her service as a maid of honor at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and while accompanying Princess Margaret on royal tours. The entire Glenconner collection achieved a “white glove” result, being 100% sold for a total of £256,065 ($340,000).

nancy astor bracelet bonhams — *A diamond bracelet, circa 1870, from the collection of Nancy Astor, Viscountess Astor (1879–1964)*

Adding to the sale’s historical gravity was a diamond bracelet, circa 1870, from the collection of Nancy Astor. Appearing on the market for the first time, the piece features 36 cts. t.w. old brilliant and rose-cut diamonds in a design of graduating circlets and ivy leaves. It sold for £95,650 ($127,000)—more than triple its low estimate.

bonhams emerald ring — *The emerald and diamond ring that led Bonhams’ London Jewels sale*

While provenance drove many of the day’s successes, the auction’s top lot featured a 21st-century colored stone: a 10.37 ct. Colombian emerald and diamond ring. The step-cut emerald, boasting no clarity enhancement, sparked intense competition and ultimately sold for £597,300 ($794,000), an impressive eight times more than its presale estimate.

Signed period jewels from prestigious houses also performed strongly. A Cartier ruby and diamond necklace, circa 1935, of Persian inspiration that featured Burmese rubies, sold for £229,000 ($300,000). Other notable results included a 19th-century diamond rivière with 39.32 cts. t.w. diamonds that went for £102,000 ($135,000), and a Cartier diamond strap bracelet, circa 1925, which realized £70,250 ($93,000).

(Photos courtesy of Bonhams)

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