By Erika Winters
Sotheby's sale of Brooke Astor's estate garnered a total of $18.8 million, with emerald and diamond jewels among the top lots sold. The auction, which included 800 pieces of jewelry, art, and furniture from the late philanthropist's New York residences, concluded Tuesday evening with jewelry selections from Mrs. Astor's personal collection.
Emerald and diamond jewels highlighted the auction: Mrs. Astor's engagement ring, a 22.84-carat emerald and diamond ring by Van Cleef & Arpels, fetched $1.2 million. A Bulgari emerald and diamond necklace sold for $686,500. And a platinum and diamond ring by Van Cleef & Arpels sold for $614,000.