Aga Khan Emerald Sets Record-Breaking Cheshire Cat of World Auction Records

Geneva, Switzerland - In a breathtaking moment that shattered the record books, Christie's Geneva auction house sold the iconic Aga Khan Emerald for a staggering CHF7,765,000 (US$8,859,865), shattering all previous expectations and cementing its place as one of the most valuable emeralds ever sold at an auction.

The 37-carat gemstone, which had first graced Christie's jewelry block in Geneva 55 years ago for a staggering US$205,486, left bidders speechless with its exceptional size, quality, and rich history. As the centerpiece of Christie's Magnificent Jewels auction, it set a new benchmark for colored gemstones of the highest quality.

Chairman of Christie's Europe, Francois Curiel, expressed his awe at witnessing the emerald's initial sale 55 years ago, remarking, "The emerald was breathtaking even back then. It is no surprise that we have reached this milestone. I feel privileged to see the winning bidder who first picked up the phone 55 years later."

This remarkable achievement came on the heels of Christie's Europe successfully auctioning off a collection of five previously unrecorded Sassoon Cartier jewels from the Art Deco era, which collectively fetched CHF6,805,100 (US$7,764,620). A stunning 1935 Art Deco diamond necklace stealing the show and selling for CHF4,461,500 (US$5,090,571).

Max Fawcett, Head of Jewellery Europe, said, "The Magnificent Jewels auction was a resounding success with incredible bidding activity from collectors worldwide. We are proud to have set a world record for the most expensive emerald ever sold at an auction. With this remarkable achievement, we are poised to close out what has been an extraordinary year for Christie's in a challenging macroeconomic environment."