RAPAPORT... Bonhams is set to auction jewelry from the private
collection of international best-selling author Barbara Taylor Bradford amassed during her 57-year relationship with her movie-producer husband.
A radiant-cut, 11.30-carat, fancy-yellow, VS1-clarity
diamond ring, flanked by baguette-cut diamonds, will lead the December 4 London
Jewels sale, Bonhams said Wednesday. The stone, which has the potential to be
internally flawless, is estimated at GBP 35,000 to GBP 45,000 ($44,990 to
$57,840). Bob Bradford surprised Barbara with the ring while on vacation in
Capri, Italy, Barbara explained.
“During our wonderful marriage, he simply could not resist
buying me fine jewelry,” she said. “And I was given a lot, as we were
married for a long time! Every birthday, wedding anniversary, Christmas, new
book publication, and even while on holiday, Bob would often surprise me with a
fabulous piece.”
Other notable pieces from the collection include a diamond
wristwatch by David Morris estimated at GBP 30,000 to GBP 50,000 ($38,550 to
$64,250), and Bird on a Rock, a citrine and diamond brooch designed by Jean Schlumberger
for Tiffany & Co. That piece is set to go under the hammer for GBP 8,000 to
GBP 12,000 ($10,290 to $15,435).
In addition to Barbara’s jewelry, Bonhams will also auction
five of Bob’s timepieces at its London Watches sale on December 11, including an
18-karat rose-gold Patek Philippe Nautilus, estimated at GBP 18,000 to GBP
22,000 ($23,145 to $258,288).
“The collection tells a wonderful story of a love affair
that lasted for more than half a century in fabulous locations around the word,
including London, Paris, Geneva, Los Angeles and New York,” said Emily Barber,
UK jewelry director for Bonhams.
Image: The 11.30-carat, fancy-yellow ring belonging to Barbara Taylor Bradford. (Bonhams)
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