24th May 2022
At BONHAMS NEW YORK
On May 24, 2022, Bonhams conducted the sale of a magnificent and very rare emerald bracelet made by Cartier sold for the exceptional sum of US$ 3,240,375.
According to the expert report by Olivier BACHET, this bracelet was commissioned from Cartier New York. At that time,” says Olivier BACHET, “orders were often executed with stones supplied by the client himself. Here the seven emeralds from Colombia weigh a total of about 101 carats. Their quality and weight explain their price of US$ 3,240,375.

Expertise from Olivier Bachet, dated 18 april 2022, courtesy ©Oliver Bachet @bachet.expert
The bracelet having lost its clasp, the drawing provided by Clive KANDEL (@cartierarchivist) allowed Olivier BACHET to get a general idea of the jewel. The drawings were often three in number to present several designs to the client. According to Alexandre Genaille, head designer at Cartier’s New York, the wealthiest clients would send their drivers to pick him up in order to discuss the proposed designs.

Drawing, Cartier, 1920’s, courtesy ©Clive Kendal @cartierarchivist