Every November, Geneva becomes the capital of the jewelry world. The great auction houses bring their finest stones to the lakeside, and collectors fly in from every continent. This year, Christie’s is leading with a single private collection of nearly 300 pieces, assembled over four decades.
At a glance
- Sale: Exceptional Jewels & Objects of Elegance: A Connoisseur’s Collection.
- Live auction: November 10, 2026, Hôtel des Bergues, Geneva. Online sale November 5–17.
- Expected total: more than $25 million.
- Top lot: a 14.63-carat Fancy Orangy-Pink diamond ring by David Morris, estimated $1.6–$2.6 million.
The top lots
- David Morris pink diamond ring: 14.63 carats, Fancy Orangy-Pink. Estimate $1.6–$2.6 million.
- Graff emerald earrings: a pair of cushion-shaped emeralds, each over 17 carats. Estimate $900,000–$1.5 million.
- Bulgari Trombino ring: a 14.38-carat Burmese ruby. Estimate $700,000–$1.2 million.
- Van Cleef & Arpels Oiseau Mystérieux brooch: a ruby and diamond bird of paradise in the Mystery Set technique. Estimate $600,000–$1 million.
What is the Mystery Set?
Van Cleef & Arpels patented the Serti Mystérieux in 1933. Each stone is grooved and slid onto fine gold rails, so no metal prongs are visible from the front: just a smooth surface of color. A single piece can take hundreds of hours, which is why Mystery Set jewels are among the most coveted at auction.
Why Geneva?
Geneva has hosted the major autumn jewelry sales for decades. It is where many of the most famous records have been set, including the $46 million Graff Pink at Sotheby’s in 2010. Switzerland’s neutrality, banking tradition and position between Europe’s capitals made the city a natural meeting point for the world’s most important jewels.
Every November, the world’s great stones check into Geneva hotels.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Christie’s Geneva jewelry sale?
The live auction takes place on November 10, 2026, with an online sale from November 5 to 17.
What is the most valuable lot?
A 14.63-carat Fancy Orangy-Pink diamond ring by David Morris, estimated at $1.6–$2.6 million.
Source: Haute Living
