Diamonds Go Under The Hammer

Published on 20/04/09

A major diamond auction has racked up purchases worth more than £140,000, according to a source.

The Saffronart sale achieved figures of Rs 1.48 crore (£143,000) thanks to items such as glittering diamond necklaces and diamond bracelets going under the hammer, reports the Economic Times.

Among the top sellers was a glittering ruby and gemstone suite, which fetched Rs 13 lakh.

Minal Vazirani, the auctioneer's president and co-founder, told the news provider that she is "very encouraged" by the response the firm has had to its sales.

She added: "Saffronart is trying to give collectors and jewellery lovers a convenient, transparent and secure source to buy and sell jewellery and also engage international jewellery collectors with India and its rich jewellery traditions."

In related news, Bonhams New York is holding an auction today (April 20th) featuring rare gemstone-encrusted pieces.

A Dreicer diamond necklace, with a weight of 22.05-carats, is among the items set to be sold.