Most Expensive Jewelry Sold at An Auction in 2021
2021 has already come to an end. What better way to wrap up the previous year by bringing you the top 10 most expensive jewelry sold at Christie’s and Sotheby’s in 2021. Last year’s jewelry are very interesting. The list consists of rings and earrings, some with significant provenance attached to it (such as the Marie Antoinette Diamond Bracelet), while others are because of the rarity (such as the Sakura Diamond ring). We also see a lot of Fancy Vivid and Fancy Intense diamonds in the list which drove the prices up. An item that almost made it to our top 10 is a Jade Bangle which was sold for HKD30.425M (USD3.6M). At the end of our list, we will mention our honorable mentions. So without further a-do, here is the top 10 most expensive jewelry sold at Christie’s and Sotheby’s. #10 Vivid Blue Diamond and Diamond Ring ($5.88M) Nothing much is said about this particular ring, except that the price of the ring is driven by the rarity of its vivid blue diamond center stone. The ring is adorned by a 3.32-carat emerald-cut Fancy Vivid Blue center stone graded as Internally Flawless. The band is further adorned by smaller square-cut diamonds in a channel setting. Read: Engagement Ring Settings: Choosing the Best Engagement and Wedding Ring Designs No matter who is the collector, or who is it from, one thing is for certain: the owner of this ring has such great taste! #9 ‘L’Odyssée de Cartier – Parcours d’un Style’ Diamond and Rock Crystal Bangle (US$6.01M) Photo Credits: Sotheby’s Cartier has yet again cemented its position as one of the most prestigious jewelry designers with this exceptionally-beautiful bracelet. This gorgeous bracelet rocks a 6.33-carat pear-shaped diamond graded as D-color, Internally Flawless. The entire bracelet is adorned by brilliant diamonds with a total carat weight of 27.80 with F-G color and VVS-VS clarity. The center-stone can be replaced by a 1.05 carat diamond with D-color and VVS1 Clarity. The diamonds are set in an 18-karat white diamond bracelet. #8 The Sweetheart Property of a Lady (US$6.05M) We know how rare it is to get a high clarity diamond. It is even rarer to get a fancy pink diamond with exceptional quality. Imagine having both qualities in a ring. No wonder this diamond fetched a price of US$6.05M! A unique ring that exudes femininity, this diamond ring sports a 4.19-carat heart brilliant-cut diamond graded as Fancy Vivid Pink color and VVS1 clarity. Adorned on each side are smaller 0.61-carat diamonds graded as D-color and Internally Flawless clarity. These rare diamonds are mounted in a platinum band with gold crowns. We will say yes to this sweetheart every time! #7 Diamond with Blue diamond drop earrings (US$7.42M) Next is the only earrings on our list. This unique pair of earrings is adorned by 6 diamonds in pear, oval and round shapes on each side that looks like half of a flower, with a fancy vivid blue drop diamond in a halo setting. The Fancy Vivid Blue diamonds are almost identical in carats. GIA has graded one at 3.06 carats, while the other one at 2.71 carats, both are VS1 clarity. #6 Fancy Intense Blue Diamond Ring (US$8M) Next on our list is another Fancy Intense Blue Diamond! The center of attention is a saturated blue modified rectangle brilliant cut diamond weighed at 6.11 carats, VS2 clarity. As if that’s not enough, the center stone is surrounded by round diamonds in a halo setting and the band is further encrusted by round F-G-colored, VS clarity diamonds, with a total carat weight of 0.75 carats. This looks good with the Fancy Vivid Blue diamond earrings, don’t you think? #5 Marie Antoinette Diamond Bracelets (US$8.16M) We believe that anything owned by the infamous queen Marie Antoinette will sure catch an astonishing auction price (remember Marie Antoinette’s Pearl pendant which fetched US$36M?). And this pair of exquisite pair of diamond bracelets is no exception. This pair of 3-strand bracelets, has a total of 112 diamonds estimated to be 140-150 carats in total. Diamonds are set in silver and yellow gold and is housed in a blue velvet case. The pair were commissioned in 1776 which cost 250,000 livres, equivalent to around $46M in today’s money. Apart from being in the collection of Marie Antoinette, and the rich history that comes with it, the reason why this pair is uniquely interesting is because the bracelets were not altered or split into pieces, as what other owners would have done. This makes it more valuable to collectors. The bracelet is believed to have been created by Charles Auguste Boehmer, Marie-Antoinette’s personal jeweler, according to Jean-Marc Lunel, senior international specialist in the jewelry department at Christie’s in Geneva. #4 Pink Diamond and Diamond Ring (US$9.41M) Another ring on our list, this gorgeous diamond ring features a 15.23-carat fancy intense pink oval-cut diamond with VS1 clarity, mounted on a gold band. Surrounding the center stone are 10 oval-shaped diamonds F-H color and VVS1-SI1 clarity. Nothing much is said about this diamond, except that it fetched a whopping $9.41M dollars. No matter, the owner is sure one lucky fellow. #3 The Key 10138 (US$12.3M) Fun fact: a special auction was commissioned solely for this magnificent diamond. Another Fun fact, this diamond was the first important and notable diamond paid for in cryptocurrency! The auction, which was set in Hongkong on July 9, 2021 highlighted the sale of this magnificent white diamond. This pear-shaped diamond boasts a whopping 101.38 carats, D color(highest color grade) and Flawless (completely no inclusions), and is considered a Type IIa diamond, the rarest subgroup of diamonds out there as they are chemically pure with exceptional optical transparency and conductivity. Having a premium grade quality diamond in this carat is also extremely rare. Only a handful of 100+ carats have every graced the auction houses, and not all in this grade. No wonder, such an important diamond commanded this price. #2 The Spectacle (US$14.04M) Diamond collectors from
Wedding Venues in Northwest Indiana
Note: Due to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, please contact the wedding venues listed above to confirm availability and learn about the specific public health and safety guidelines in effect at these facilities. From lovely lodges and gardens to the rustic charm of restored barns, Northwest Indiana offers couples some of the most unforgettable wedding venues imaginable. You may have recently received that special engagement ring or maybe you are just ready to start looking at wedding venues, either way, we have you covered. We’ve put together the following list of the six most spectacular wedding venues in the region, all with impressive amenities and scenic beauty that will make any wedding celebration memorable. Avalon Manor in Merrillville Immerse yourself in the immaculately maintained gardens and grounds at Avalon Manor in Merrillville. This extraordinary facility offers elegance set amid the beauty of an area of protected wetlands, and it’s the perfect spot for your fairy-tale wedding. Its large garden gazebo flanked by weeping willows, a fountain in a pond, and a colorful forest border make attractive settings for photographs. Avalon Manor’s 30,000-square-foot facility is the largest free-standing banquet and meeting center in Northwest Indiana. Picture yourself in your partner’s arms on the parquet dance floor underneath the glimmer of light from elegant gold and crystal chandeliers inside the banquet hall. Specially designed wedding packages offer couples a selection of menu choices that feature the talents of Avalon Manor’s culinary team. Location: 3550 E. Lincoln Highway, Merrillville | 219-945-0888 Briar Ridge Country Club in Schererville When you’re proclaiming those two words that will change your life forever, you want a venue that reflects the spirit of your special day. Briar Ridge Country Club in Schererville provides the perfect setting to begin your happily ever after. Briar Ridge welcomes weddings of individuals who are either members of or sponsored by a member of the country club. Several banquet and reception rooms offer elegant spaces for couples who want to incorporate personal touches into their wedding, so you can decorate the venue to fit any theme. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the main ballroom provide spectacular views of the Briar Ridge golf course. This ballroom seats up to 200 people and offers an exquisite setting to showcase your centerpieces, table settings, and themed decor. You can even enjoy convenient access to the outdoor patio from the main ballroom. The St. Andrews and Dublin ballrooms seat up to 80 and 70 guests, respectively. Like the main ballroom, these event spaces also provide access to the private patio and feature beautiful views of the surrounding Briar Ridge golf course. Location: 123 Country Club Drive, Schererville | 219-533-0796 County Line Orchard in Hobart Country-themed weddings continue to remain popular among couples. If this is something you’re interested in, then the County Line Orchard in Hobart might be perfect for you. This apple orchard’s signature red barn serves as a full-service indoor private banquet facility that complements the outdoor ceremony site set among the apple trees. Comprehensive wedding packages include chairs, dinnerware, linens, tables, and more, and their flexible catering menus will give your guests a taste of homegrown goodness from the orchards. Location: 200 S. County Line Road, Hobart | 219-947-4477 Lafayette Theater in Lafayette With a style that reflects Old America and modernism, the historic Lafayette Theater delivers a distinctive venue for weddings on a grand scale. With space for up to 220 guests, the theater’s main floor offers a dynamic setting for a unique wedding celebration. The arthouse lighting of the main stage itself sets the tone for a spectacular ceremony and reception. In addition to the facility rental space on the main floor, the theater’s second floor supports a lobby with a bar and concession area. Steal a kiss with your sweetheart after the ceremony in the balcony seating on the second floor, or capture an outdoor pose underneath the original theater marquee. Location: 600 Main St., Lafayette | 765-771-9090 Studebaker National Museum in South Bend With 55,000 square feet showcasing classic cars, historic vehicles, and exhibitions that tell the story of automobiles in America, the Studebaker National Museum in South Bend serves as an attractive setting for any couple who loves history and cars. If you’re looking for a truly unique space to say “I do,” this might be the perfect spot. With its high ceiling and skylight reminiscent of the ceilings of early automobile manufacturing facilities, the light and airy Atrium provides generous space to host a wedding ceremony and reception. The Atrium is adjacent to the Main Floor Gallery and Carmichael Bullet Nose Gallery, which exhibits an automobile from the museum’s collection on a spinning platform — a fantastic backdrop for photos. With space accommodations for 20 to 200 people, the museum also opens its gallery spaces for guests to enjoy so that everyone can explore the exhibitions and immerse themselves in the history of automobiles, South Bend’s industrial heritage, and iconic Studebaker vehicles. Location: 201 Chapin St., South Bend | 574-235-9002 The Lighthouse Lodge in Monticello Located 90 minutes from Chicago and Indianapolis, the Lighthouse Lodge in Monticello is a charming bed-and-breakfast establishment that delivers attractive accommodations with views of Lake Shafer. If you’re planning an intimate wedding with a few family and friends and want a venue that reflects this feeling, the Lighthouse Lodge provides the perfect location and personal touches that will make your wedding memorable. Seven deluxe suites and four two-bedroom cottages on the premises accommodate up to 54 guests during their stay in Monticello. If your wedding party guests are bringing children, the little ones can enjoy playing on the lodge’s sand beach and savoring some evening campfire s’mores around the bonfire pit. There’s also additional entertainment for all of your guests only a short drive away at Indiana Beach. This setting offers a Coney Island-like boardwalk along with live entertainment, amusement rides, carnival games, and other attractions. Lodge facilities include three bathrooms, a large recreation room, a sunroom directly off the sun deck for food service, a handicap ramp that leads up to the sun deck, and a large gas grill. Location: 4866 N. Boxman Place, Monticello
Best Restaurants in Merrillville
Wanting to have a special date night to give the perfect gift? Wulf Diamond Jewelers knows that we don’t hold the only gems in Merrillville, Indiana. Our local restaurant recommendations will please every palate and entice you to dine out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The next time you visit Merrillville, be sure to make a stop at these jewels of the culinary world. Or you might just want to have a delectable place to make moments special. Looking for Vegan Options? Trying to find vegan options while dining out can be a chore, but not at Abuelo’s. If you want stellar food that everyone can enjoy served in a spectacular setting, then you’ll want to grab a table here. Known for its premier customer service, this spot caters to each patron’s diet. The skilled chefs serve Mexican and Southwestern fare that include vegetarian and vegan options as well as gluten-free dishes. And you can’t go wrong when ordering a signature plate like the Monterrey, which features an assortment of enchiladas, or the Grande Burrito, wrapped in a homemade flour tortilla. What’s for Lunch? Although it’s humbly located inside a strip mall, this next restaurant will boldly engage every one of your taste buds. Taste of India is a welcoming eatery featuring a menu well stocked with both meat and vegetarian choices. This restaurant certainly holds mass appeal. The appetizers of veggie spring rolls and aloo tikki make for a great start to every meal. Entrees include the hearty goat curry or the chicken korma, which is paired with a delightful almond sauce. Patrons with a sweet tooth won’t be disappointed either when they’re presented with fried milk pastry dumplings known as gulab jamun. Want a Romantic Night Out? Feel free to dress up and wear your finery at the impressive Gamba Ristorante. The romantic atmosphere created by the soft lighting and hanging chandeliers is only enhanced by their passion for Italian cuisine. Treat yourself to a new dish or enjoy classic favorites like the Charcuterie and Cheese Board or New York Strip Steak. Patrons can celebrate any event over a plate of the delicious Calabrian Style Braised Pork Shoulder or impeccable Risotto Con Funghi. After dinner, patrons can enjoy handcrafted cocktails at the fully stocked bar. Need a Glass of Wine? A gastro paradise, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants truly understands great food and wine. The face of the modern dining experience, Cooper’s Hawk offers great hospitality with a contemporary menu inspired by worldly flavors. Their dishes allow guest to explore new meals which are freshly made in their scratch kitchen and come with individualized wine recommendations. The resident winemaker treats each wine with care to produce the best results. The Cooper’s Hawk experience doesn’t end when your meal is over. You can take home decanters, wine accessories, and other gifts to elevate your wine at home. Craving Asian? Asparagus is as unique as a rare coin. Featured on the Steve Harvey show and winner of several awards, this locale is a diamond in the Merrillville area. Serving Asian fusion dishes in a fine dining setting, Asparagus is a delight. Patrons are presented with meals inspired by the cuisines of the Americans, Vietnam, and Thailand all while being produced with extreme culinary flair. Wine lovers will adore going over the extensive wine collection, but for those feeling adventurous, Asparagus offers a wide range of signature drinks like the refreshing Asparagus Mojito and La Passion Martini. Hungry for Clean Eats? Only utilizing meats that are free from steroids, hormones, and antibiotics, Roxana’s Restaurant produces a full menu of amazing clean eats. A family-operated establishment specializing in American & Mediterranean dishes, Roxana’s makes for the perfect lunch spot. Their homemade food is all locally sourced, which means that when you choose to dine here, you are directly supporting the local community. Their specialties include delicious shish kabobs, lamb chops, burgers cooked to perfection, and invigorating veggie plates. Friendly and inviting with an incredibly appetizing menu, this location is a must-see when visiting Merrillville. Searching for Delicious Prices? Tapas Cafe is the place to be if you’re looking to enjoy fantastic food on a dime. Offering an incredible selection of small plates and entrees, your palate will be thrilled by this sensational Spanish fare. Patrons can indulge on the modern paellas and pulpo a la plancha, octopus served over garlic potatoes and olive oil, without worrying about extravagant prices. Making use of the freshest ingredients available, the Tapas Cafe creates some truly inspired dishes like their Maya potstickers. Tapas Cafes holds a warm atmosphere, perfect for great food and great conversation. What’s for Breakfast? Look no further than Brothers Breakfast and Lunch when it’s time for breakfast. Sporting an eye-catching interior coupled with great food, a meal here is the ultimate way to start your day. There’s plenty to choose from this menu and the portions won’t leave any patron hungry. The fantastic pricing here won’t leave your wallet hurting either. Try a mouthwatering pastry or muffin before tucking into their supreme chicken and waffles. Not only is the food great, but the customer service you’ll receive here is fantastic as well and will leave you wishing you could come back for every meal. We at AaLAND Diamond Jewelers can’t wait for you to visit these eight amazing Merrillville restaurants. With options ranging from traditional American breakfast to Asian fusion, these locales provide an edible tapestry. But if we’ve missed a local favorite, we want to hear about it! Give us a call, and we’ll be sure to update our list You might also like:
