Bonhams the UK's 'leading' jewellery auction house - 23/12/2009

Bonhams has announced that it was the UK's leading jewellery auctioneer in 2009, thanks in part to the success of its recent Art of Jewels: Fine Jewellery and Iconic Gems show.

Despite the economic downturn, the auction house's London jewellery department enjoyed its finest ever year over the past 12 months.

The Art of Jewels raised £2.2 million in sales, with 71 per cent of that coming from private buyers.

At the top of the lots was a pearl necklace formerly worn by philanthropist Lady Houston, which sold for £311,200, significantly above its £30,000-£50,000 estimate.

Bonhams said: "The sale price can be accounted for by both the quality of the necklace, but also the significance of their erstwhile owner, Lady Houston, who donated a considerable amount of her personal fortune in support of British aviation."

The year also saw a D-colour brilliant diamond of 5.01 carats sold for £180,000, while an art deco black lacquer and diamond bangle designed by Cartier sold for £96,000, three times its estimated price.