International News
Historic Mughal Emerald Jewels to Lead Christie’s Magnificent Jewels Auction in New York
Over 2,000 carats of rare Mughal-era emeralds and multi-gem treasures — including a 470-carat centerpiece — headline a landmark sale alongside prestigious pieces from Anne Bass and Lucille Coleman collections.
Christie’s will showcase an extraordinary array of Mughal jewels at its upcoming Magnificent Jewels auction in New York on June 17, led by a remarkable carved emerald necklace bearing over 1,150 carats of Colombian emeralds. The historic piece is inscribed with the name Ahmad Shah Durrani, founder of the Durrani Empire, and features a massive 470-carat central emerald. Dating back to 1612, this jewel is steeped in royal heritage and has been linked in historical records with other legendary gems such as the Timur Ruby and the Koh-i-Noor diamond. It carries a pre-sale estimate of up to $3 million.
Two additional Mughal masterpieces will also feature in the sale. One is a multi-gem necklace set with four Colombian emeralds totaling nearly 800 carats, expected to fetch up to $3 million. The other is a remarkable necklace strung with over 2,000 carats of spinel and natural pearls, with eight stones engraved with the names of influential rulers including Delhi Sultan Muhammad ibn Tughluq, Mughal emperors Babur, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan. That piece is estimated to sell for as much as $2 million.
These jewels will be presented alongside the personal collection of philanthropist Anne Hendricks Bass, which includes 26 pieces from esteemed design houses such as Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, Cartier, and JAR. A standout from this collection is a pair of Van Cleef & Arpels diamond pendant earrings, estimated at up to $1.8 million, and a JAR sapphire, emerald, and diamond necklace, valued at up to $300,000.
Also featured in the auction is a group of nine Van Cleef & Arpels Mystery-Set jewels from the collection of philanthropist Lucille Coleman, described by Christie’s as a “significant” highlight of the sale.
With its blend of historical depth and iconic 20th-century design, the June auction promises to be one of the most compelling jewelry events of the year.
In a landmark move toward ethical luxury, Chaumet has announced its commitment to 100% gold traceability across all its jewellery collections, beginning in 2025. This initiative will debut with the launch of a new Bee de Chaumet pendant, crafted entirely from responsibly sourced, traceable gold.
With a legacy spanning over 240 years, Chaumet has long drawn creative inspiration from nature—an ethos now deeply embedded in its sustainability journey. As part of the LIFE 360 programme led by parent group LVMH, the Maison is strengthening its environmental and social responsibility efforts, reflecting a broader commitment to nature conservation and ethical craftsmanship.
A member of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) and supporter of the Kimberley Process, Chaumet has also joined the Swiss Better Gold Association (SBGA), which champions sustainable development in artisanal mining communities.
The upcoming Bee de Chaumet pendant, adorned with the brand’s iconic bee motif, symbolizes this ethical shift. Every component—from the pendant and chain to clasps and rings—is made from gold that is 100% traceable and sourced through verified, responsible channels.
While not claiming to transform the mining industry overnight, Chaumet’s initiative marks a significant step in promoting transparency and integrity across the jewellery value chain—setting a high standard for the future of sustainable luxury.
As part of its outreach campaign for the upcoming Saudi Arabia Jewellery Exposition (SAJEX) and IIJS Premiere 2025, the GJEPC recently concluded a door-to-door initiative in Kuwait, engaging directly with key players in the local jewellery industry.
The GJEPC team met with 92 top retailers from key markets including Al Mubakariya, Souq Al Wataniya, Souq Al Sharq, and the Farwaniya Gold Market.
The focused meetings with leading retailers, manufacturers, and wholesalers, offered insights into the Kuwaiti market’s preferences and dynamics. The response was highly encouraging, with strong interest expressed in attending SAJEX 2025, which is set to become a vital networking hub for the jewellery industry across the MENA region.
International News
De Beers CEO Al Cook Engages with GJEPC Leaders During Strategic Visit to Mumbai Office
Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group, visited the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) office in Mumbai, reinforcing the group’s commitment to deeper collaboration with the Indian diamond industry. He was accompanied by senior executives including Paul Rowley, Executive VP – Diamonds Trading; Shweta Harit, Global Senior VP; and Amit Pratihari, VP of De Beers Forevermark India.
The visit follows the successful joint launch of the Indian Natural Diamond Retailer Alliance (INDRA) earlier this year—a strategic initiative to boost India’s natural diamond retail ecosystem.
Mr. Cook and his team were welcomed by a distinguished delegation from GJEPC, including Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman; Russell Mehta, Advisor to the Chairman; Ajesh Mehta, Convener – Diamond Panel; Diamond Panel Members Anoop Mehta, Nilesh Kothari, Anil Virani, Manish Jiwani, Ashish Borda; and Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director.
The meeting featured in-depth discussions on pressing industry topics such as traceability, G7 compliance, funding challenges, U.S. tariffs, and marketing strategies, aimed at strengthening India’s global competitiveness in the diamond sector.
The engagement signals a continued partnership between De Beers and GJEPC to drive growth, innovation, and transparency across the diamond value chain.
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