Rare French Gold, Major Diamonds Headline Freeman’s Auction

By Annie Davidson Watson | March 10, 2026

Freeman’s is set to strike a balance between investment-grade diamonds and a deep dive into mid-century French craftsmanship in a sophisticated jewelry sale next week at the auction house’s Chicago headquarters, anchored by property from a prominent local family.

“We are thrilled to present Freeman’s first Important Jewelry auction of 2026,” said April Matteini, the company’s senior vice president and head of jewelry, in a statement. “This is a gem of an auction featuring highly sought-after jewelry by Georges L’Enfant and a wonderful collection of mid-20th-century glamorous jewelry and objects.”

george lenfant necklace — *Georges L’Enfant for Van Cleef & Arpels necklace with graduated rope-textured curb links in 18k yellow gold, estimate $15,000–$25,000*

The narrative of the March 18 sale is fueled by a focus on French postwar gold, specifically the technical mastery of the Georges L’Enfant workshop, which produced pieces for maisons like Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels. L’Enfant designs are coveted for their sculptural, tactile quality. A standout lot in the Freeman’s auction, exemplifying the subtle force of the L’Enfant atelier, is a textured gold curb link necklace.

Lots in the diamond category are equally compelling, led by a 6+ ct. Tiffany ring and a nearly 12 ct. fancy yellow diamond ring, both estimated up to $150,000. For those drawn to archival pieces, the sale includes a Van Cleef & Arpels diamond flower brooch (pictured at top) and an art deco Ceylon star sapphire pendant.