PRESS RELEASE
PHILLIPS TO SHOWCASE WORKS OF EXQUISITE PROVENANCE IN THE NEW YORK JEWELS AUCTION
Sale on 10 June to Feature Important Pieces from
the Estate of Tina Hills and the Collection of Irma Nicolas
31.77-Carat Paraiba Tourmaline and Diamond Ring Leads the Sale
Important Paraiba Tourmaline and Diamond Ring
Estimate: $550,000–650,000
NEW YORK – 26 MAY 2026 – Phillips is pleased to present The New York Jewels Auction, taking place on 10 June 2026, showcasing an exceptional selection of rare gemstones, important diamonds, and signed jewels from the world’s most prestigious houses. Led by vibrant colored gemstones and a strong offering of Paraiba tourmalines, the sale highlights the continued demand for rarity, color, and craftsmanship among collectors. Among the standout lots is an important Paraiba tourmaline and diamond ring weighing 31.77 carats, alongside notable emeralds, diamonds, and iconic creations by makers such as Harry Winston, Cartier, and David Webb. Leading up to the live auction, a public exhibition will take place at 432 Park Avenue from 5–9 June.
Dianne Batista, Head of Jewels, New York, said, “This season’s New York Jewels Auction celebrates the extraordinary beauty and rarity of colored gemstones, with Paraiba tourmalines at the forefront of collector interest. From electric-blue tourmalines to exceptional emeralds and diamonds, the sale brings together colorful jewels that combine provenance, craftsmanship, and enduring appeal for today’s global collectors. We are also honored to have been entrusted with jewelry from the collections of Irma Nicolas and Tina Hills. Ms. Nicolas’ collection reflects a lifetime of vision, elegance, and entrepreneurial spirit, expressed through her refined eye for exceptional signed jewels and an exquisite Fancy Intense Yellow Diamond Ring. Mrs. Hills’ collection reveals her vibrant, creative life in the arts, with jewels that function as miniature works of art that are bold, expressive, and deeply connected to her passion for color, design, and cultural patronage.”
EXTRAORDINARY PARAIBA TOURMALINES
Discovered only in the late 20th century, Paraiba tourmalines have made waves since debuting in the fine gemstone category, where emeralds, rubies, and sapphires have reigned. Their irresistible draw is an unmatched, almost unearthly color. From vivid neon blue to green, the striking color results from trace elements copper and manganese, with the most electric blues containing the highest copper levels. With only small known deposits, they are among the scarcest gemstones in the world, and demand for their vivid hues has surged among collectors and leading luxury houses. Tiffany & Co., with a storied history of introducing new gems, recognized Paraiba tourmalines’ unique qualities very early on and created some of the most beautiful examples of this jewelry. This auction offers the opportunity to own these rare and magnificent gems and explore the variety and beauty of their colors. Among the examples to be offered is an important Paraiba tourmaline and diamond ring centering an oval Paraiba tourmaline weighing 31.77 carats, embellished by marquise-shaped diamonds and blue tourmalines (illustrated page 1). Estimated at $550,000–650,000, the ring stands as a striking showcase of the gemstone’s exceptional color, rarity, and scale.
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