RESULTS – Christie’s online sale Colorful Whimsy: Jewels by Michele della Valle achieved a total of $799,125 with 100% sold by lot, 100% sold by value, and 193% hammer above low estimate.

The top lot of the sale was a pair of yellow sapphire, tsavorite garnet, and diamond lemon earrings which sold for $75,000 against the low estimate of $7,000. All of the 65 exquisite lots offered were sold with many greatly exceeding their initial estimates.

Caroline Ervin, Specialist for Christie’s Jewels, comments: “We are delighted with the results received for this special online auction dedicated to one of the most vibrant names in jewelry—Michele della Valle. With a background in opera and the arts, della Valle’s aptitude for creative output knows no bounds. For decades, della Valle has delighted jewelry collectors and fans alike with his bold and colorful creations. His unexpected and whimsical creations offered in our sale were met with enthusiasm from Christie’s clients around the world.”

Michele della Valle, who was born in Rome, began designing costume jewelry at the age of 16. Della Valle purchased his first gemstone during a trip to Burma in 1976 and on the advice of friends, he showed it to Roger Varenne, the legendary stone dealer, who suggested that he take the gem to Christie's. There he met Hans Nadelhoffer, who was running the jewelry department at the time. These events contributed to the significant development of della Valle's career as a precious stone dealer and jewelry designer. He went on to work for Fürst Jewellers in Via Veneto, Rome, the local representative for Harry Winston. In 1978, della Valle opened his own workshop in Rome's Piazza di Spagna and began travelling regularly to Asia sourcing more precious stones. He was quickly recognized as a reputable designer, acquiring famous clientele such as film stars and opera singers throughout Italy. His access to quality gemstones and keen design sense led to a collaboration with Bulgari on special orders. In 1987, he moved to Geneva and developed the line of jewelry which now bears his name.

Press images can be downloaded here.