Doris Duke

$11, 964, 176

Two generations of collecting were represented in the sale of the Jewels of Doris Duke at Christies New York on June 2, 2004.

 In addition to the pieces she inherited from her mother, Duke assembled a group of unique and stylish jewels heavily influenced by her travels.

Her jewels were a showcase of the finest brand names and also collaborated with designers to incorporate important gemstones she had acquired in her travels into custom pieces of jewellery.

The top lot of the evening sale was a Belle Époque diamond and pearl necklace by Cartier, shown here, that sold for $93, 210.

 After lengthy litigation involving Dukes butler, the proceeds of the Sale were funnelled to the Doris’ Duke Charitable Foundation.

JULY BIRTHSTONE

The glowing ruby shall adorn,
Those who in July are born;
Then they’ll be exempt and free
From love’s doubts and anxiety