Bonhams to Auction California Jewels on March 11

By Annie Davidson Watson | March 04, 2025

On March 11, Bonhams will present a refined edit of gemstone designs spanning eras and styles, from antique to art deco to midcentury and more recent, in its California Jewels live auction in Los Angeles.

“Notably, this sale is composed primarily of private consignments, offering collectors a rare opportunity to acquire unique and storied pieces,” said Allison Osborn, Bonhams’ L.A. head of sale, in a statement. “The live sale includes a wonderful selection of fancy-grade color diamonds and color gemstones of rubies, emeralds and sapphires.”

Legendary jewelers including Bulgari, Cartier, Chopard, Graff, and Harry Winston are represented among the nearly 300 lots. One of the top-value pieces, estimated at $50,000–$80,000, is the 12.62 ct. brown-yellow octagonal diamond pictured above. Of VS2 clarity, the diamond is set in a platinum ring with a trapezoidal-cut diamond on each side, offering a striking example of natural color and form.

Additional highlights from Bonhams’ California Jewels follow.

Bonhams necklace — *Necklace in 18k white gold with 69.65 cts. t.w. multicolor cushion-cut sapphires and 8 cts. t.w. round diamonds, estimate $50,000–$70,000*

This necklace features ribbon-inspired links set with round diamonds and suspending blue, green, pink, and yellow cushion-cut sapphires. Twelve sapphires have been identified as originating from Burma and Sri Lanka, all untreated.