Article Contents
- 1 Main Highlights
- 2 A Legacy of Hollywood Glamour
- 3 The Stories Behind Each Piece
- 4 Charitable Impact and Royal Recognition
- 5 Notable Pieces at Auction
- 6 Star-Studded Collection Highlights
- 7 Investment in Timeless Beauty
- 8 Public Preview and Bidding Details
- 9 Frequently Asked Questions
- 9.1 How Does Dame Joan Store and Maintain Her Extensive Jewelry Collection?
- 9.2 What Security Measures Were in Place During Her Ownership of These Pieces?
- 9.3 Has Dame Joan Ever Lost or Had Any Pieces Stolen?
- 9.4 Which Pieces From Her Collection Does Dame Joan Wear Most Frequently?
- 9.5 Does Dame Joan Plan to Keep Any Signature Pieces From Her Collection?
- 10 Conclusion
Dame Joan Collins' illustrious jewelry collection, valued between £20,000-28,000, will go under the hammer at Bonhams London, with proceeds benefiting The Shooting Star Children's Hospice. The 11-piece collection features iconic pieces from her "Dynasty" period, including a gold torque necklace and a Van Cleef & Arpels diamond brooch, each telling its own story of Hollywood glamour. Notable highlights include a turquoise and gold necklace from Warren Beatty and jade earrings from the Rio Carnival. The auction, set for December 5th, offers collectors a chance to own pieces from one of entertainment's most sophisticated collections, while the stories behind each gem await revelation.
Main Highlights
- Joan Collins' 11-piece jewelry collection will be auctioned at Bonhams London, with an estimated value between £20,000-28,000.
- The auction features iconic pieces worn during "Dynasty," including a gold torque necklace and a ruby, diamond, and enamel ring.
- Proceeds from the sale will benefit The Shooting Star Children's Hospice, supporting children with life-limiting conditions.
- A public preview runs December 1-4, 2024, at Bonhams London, with the auction taking place December 5th.
- Notable items include a £50,000-70,000 diamond necklace and a turquoise necklace gift from Warren Beatty.
A Legacy of Hollywood Glamour
Embodying the essence of Hollywood's golden age, Dame Joan Collins' jewels represent more than mere accessories – they're tangible symbols of a career that has defined glamour for generations.
Her iconic role as Alexis Carrington Colby in Dynasty not only earned her a Golden Globe but also established her as the quintessence of Hollywood elegance, with viewers enthusiastic about each appearance and every carefully curated ensemble.
These jewels, now set for auction at Bonhams London, tell the story of a remarkable expedition through entertainment history. Each piece reflects Collins' timeless allure and sophisticated taste, from the turquoise and gold necklace gifted by Warren Beatty to the stunning diamond pieces that graced red carpets and premieres.
The collection, estimated between £20,000-28,000, serves as a confirmation of her influence on fashion and style. The exclusive event will be held at Bonhams Knightsbridge location, drawing serious collectors and admirers alike. Interested bidders can participate by registering online through Bonhams' official website.
What makes this auction particularly meaningful is how it intertwines Collins' glamorous legacy with her philanthropic spirit.
As a Dame Commander of the British Empire, she's ensuring that her collection continues to make an impact by supporting The Shooting Star Children's Hospice, proving that true elegance extends beyond the surface.
The Stories Behind Each Piece
Each exquisite piece in Joan Collins' jewelry collection reveals a personal narrative, from career triumphs to intimate moments in her life. The jewelry symbolism ranges from celebratory tokens to emblems of professional achievements, each piece carefully curated to reflect significant milestones.
Notable pieces include a turquoise and gold necklace from Warren Beatty, marking her role in "Splendor in the Grass," and a ruby and diamond ring that embodied her character Alexis in "Dynasty." The Knightsbridge Jewels sale features a total of 11 stunning pieces from her personal collection. A particularly significant item is the cultured pearl ring from her 1960 engagement to Warren Beatty. These personal narratives weave together to create a tapestry of Hollywood's golden period.
| Life Event | Representative Piece |
|---|---|
| Career Breakthrough | Gold necklace for "Dynasty" role |
| Motherhood | Fancy link gold bracelet |
| Professional Achievement | Chrome diopside ring |
| Friendship | Pink tourmaline earrings |
The collection's most valuable piece, a diamond necklace purchased during her "Dynasty" years, carries an estimate of £50,000-70,000. Perhaps most telling is the Van Cleef & Arpels diamond brooch, which exemplifies both the technical mastery of 1930s jewelry craftsmanship and Collins' sophisticated taste in fine jewelry.
Charitable Impact and Royal Recognition
Dame Joan Collins' commitment to charitable causes has earned her prestigious royal recognition, including an OBE in 1997 and a DBE in 2015 for her philanthropic work.
Her dedication to The Shooting Star Children's Hospice, where she serves as patron, exemplifies her passionate advocacy for children's healthcare and family support services.
The upcoming auction of her jewels at Bonhams' London Jewels sale will continue her legacy of giving, with proceeds benefiting the hospice's essential work caring for children with life-limiting conditions. Her collection joins other high-profile collections previously featured at Bonhams' prestigious auctions, including those of screen legend Lauren Bacall. Among her eight pieces to be auctioned, a stunning ruby and diamond neckpiece is expected to draw significant interest from collectors.
Royal Honors For Service
Recognition of Joan Collins' philanthropic achievements reached royal heights through two prestigious honors: an OBE in 1997 for her contributions to the arts, followed by a DBE in 2015 acknowledging her lifetime dedication to charitable causes.
These royal accolades, rarely bestowed and deeply respected within British society, underscore Collins' exceptional commitment to charitable work, particularly in support of women, children, and family welfare. Her jewelry collection has attracted significant attention from global auction houses, reflecting the prestigious nature of her offerings.
Her role as patron of The Shooting Star Children's Hospice exemplifies the depth of her involvement, while her strategic use of high-profile events, such as her jewelry auction, demonstrates her groundbreaking approach to fundraising.
The progression from OBE to DBE reflects the crown's increasing recognition of Collins' sustained philanthropic impact.
Her elevation to Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire places her among an elite circle of individuals who've made extraordinary contributions to British society.
Through these honors, Collins has established herself not merely as an acclaimed actress but as a dedicated philanthropist whose influence extends far beyond the entertainment industry, setting a compelling example for other public figures in charitable giving.
Supporting Children's Healthcare
The sale of Joan Collins' exquisite jewels powerfully illustrates her dedication to children's healthcare through direct support of The Shooting Star Children's Hospice. As a patron of this significant institution, Dame Joan's commitment to pediatric support extends beyond mere endorsement, channeling proceeds from her personal collection to advance healthcare innovation for society's most vulnerable members.
The Shooting Star Children's Hospice stands at the forefront of specialized care, providing fundamental services from diagnosis through end-of-life care for children with life-limiting conditions. Their thorough approach encompasses respite care, symptom management, and important family support services, making them an invaluable resource in children's healthcare.
Dame Joan's philanthropic legacy, recognized through her DBE honor in 2015, continues to evolve through this meaningful auction. The sale at Bonhams not only showcases her remarkable collection but also reinforces her unwavering dedication to charitable causes.
This initiative exemplifies how personal valuables can transform into lasting contributions to pediatric healthcare, inspiring others in London's elite circles to support such significant institutions.
Notable Pieces at Auction
Among the most enchanting pieces in Joan Collins' jewelry auction, the Dynasty-era acquisitions stand out, including a stunning Diamond Necklace from 1985 with an estimate of £50,000-70,000.
The collection's personal narratives shine through pieces like the Turquoise and Gold Necklace from Warren Beatty and the Ruby, Diamond, and Enamel Ring worn during her iconic role as Alexis Carrington.
Each piece tells a story from Collins' illustrious career, from the Tiffany Gold and Enamel Bangle bought during the filming of "Esther and the King" in Rome to the Jade and Diamond Earrings found in Rio de Janeiro's jewelry shops.
Iconic Dynasty-Era Treasures
During Joan Collins' illustrious run on Dynasty, she acquired several remarkable pieces of jewelry that later became highlights of her collection at auction. Among her most coveted Dynasty accessories, the gold torque necklace, purchased in California after securing her role as Alexis, captured the essence of 1980s glamour with an estimate of £1,000-1,500.
The iconic jewelry collection also features a stunning ruby, diamond, and enamel ring from Beverly Hills that she wore on-screen, embodying Alexis' commanding presence.
Perhaps most impressive from the Dynasty period is the chrome diopside and diamond ring, acquired in the South of France following Season 4, with an estimate of £2,000-3,000.
The collection's crowning piece from this timeframe is an exquisite diamond necklace purchased in 1985, featuring a graduated series of diamonds and valued at £50,000-70,000. The necklace’s timeless design and impeccable craftsmanship make it a standout addition to the collection, symbolizing elegance and enduring beauty. While this piece represents the epitome of luxury, the market today also caters to a wider range of budgets, offering affordable diamond engagement rings for those seeking sophistication without extravagance. These more accessible options ensure that anyone can experience the allure of fine jewelry for their special moments.
These pieces not only represent Collins' impeccable taste but also serve as tangible connections to one of television's most memorable characters. Each item tells a story of success, style, and the golden era of television glamour, making them particularly appealing to collectors and Dynasty enthusiasts alike.
Personal History Behind Gems
Beyond her Dynasty-related pieces, Joan Collins' jewelry collection reveals intimate stories of personal milestones and cherished relationships. Each piece carries deep emotional connections, from Warren Beatty's turquoise and gold necklace commemorating her breakthrough role in "Splendor in the Grass" to the touching gold bracelet from husband Ron Kass celebrating their daughter's birth.
The jewelry symbolism extends beyond family ties into her professional triumphs. Collins rewarded herself with distinctive pieces to mark career achievements, including a gold necklace purchased after landing her iconic role as Alexis in Dynasty, and a chrome diopside ring celebrating the completion of the show's fourth season. The collection includes three Buccellati pieces that will be featured in the upcoming auction.
Her collection also reflects valued friendships, like the pink tourmaline earrings from actress Viviane Ventura and jade earrings acquired during Carnival festivities with friend Régine in Rio.
Perhaps most notable is her Van Cleef & Arpels diamond brooch, featuring an elegant corkscrew curl ribbon design that exemplifies the sophisticated Hollywood glamour she’s known for. Additionally, Taylor’s collection includes a variety of customised ring styles, each meticulously designed to reflect her personal style and taste. These bespoke pieces showcase her love for vintage-inspired jewellery and her penchant for intricate details. From vintage diamond cluster rings to ornate cocktail rings, Taylor’s customised ring styles perfectly complement her iconic fashion sense.
These pieces, now heading to auction at Bonhams London, represent a lifetime of meaningful moments in Collins' illustrious career.
Star-Studded Collection Highlights
A dazzling array of eleven jewels owned by Dame Joan Collins is set to grace Bonhams Knightsbridge's upcoming jewelry sale in London. This exceptional collection of celebrity memorabilia, estimated at £20,000-28,000, represents significant milestones throughout the star's illustrious career.
| Piece | History | Estimate (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Turquoise Necklace | Gift from Warren Beatty | 2,000-3,000 |
| Gold Necklace | Dynasty role celebration | 1,000-1,500 |
| Ruby Diamond Ring | Worn on Dynasty set | 2,000-3,000 |
| Jade Earrings | Rio Carnival purchase | 2,500-3,000 |
| Tiffany Bangle | Rome filming memento | 1,500-2,000 |
Each piece in the collection carries its own fascinating narrative, from the turquoise necklace bestowed by then-fiancé Warren Beatty to the gold necklace she purchased to commemorate landing her iconic role as Alexis in Dynasty. The jewel significance extends beyond mere adornment, with pieces like the ruby and diamond ring actually appearing on screen during the celebrated series. This follows Collins' successful 2020 auction, which featured remarkable pieces including a Van Cleef & Arpels diamond brooch and benefited The Shooting Star Children's Hospice.
Investment in Timeless Beauty
Investment wisdom meets Hollywood glamour in Dame Joan Collins' jewelry collection, offering collectors a unique opportunity to own pieces that combine intrinsic value with cultural significance.
The collection, featured in Bonhams' London Jewels sale, represents a masterclass in jewelry appreciation, showcasing pieces from prestigious houses and memorable periods that promise enduring worth.
These extraordinary pieces demonstrate proven investment strategies through their combination of quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and illustrious provenance.
Each item tells a story, from the turquoise necklace gifted by Warren Beatty to the iconic ruby and diamond ring worn on "Dynasty."
- Historical Significance: Pieces from the 1980s reflect the glamorous Dynasty time
- Prestigious Origins: Items from renowned houses like Van Cleef & Arpels
- Celebrity Connection: Direct provenance from Dame Joan Collins herself
- Investment Potential: Combination of intrinsic value and cultural importance
For collectors seeking to merge passion with investment, these pieces offer more than mere adornments – they're tangible connections to Hollywood's golden period.
The collection's unique blend of quality craftsmanship and star-studded history positions it perfectly for long-term appreciation in both value and significance.
Public Preview and Bidding Details
The public preview for Joan Collins' dazzling jewelry collection opens its doors from December 1-4, 2024, at Bonhams London.
Located at 101 New Bond Street, the prestigious auction house sits in the heart of London's luxury shopping district.
Collectors and enthusiasts won't need to book in advance, as the preview offers complimentary admission to view the magnificent 150-lot collection, including eight exquisite pieces from Dame Joan's personal treasury.
The celebrity status of these pieces makes them especially coveted, as celebrity provenance typically enhances their market value significantly.
The bidding process has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate collectors worldwide, with multiple platforms available for participation.
Interested parties can engage through prestigious online venues such as Invaluable, Live Auctioneers, and The Saleroom, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to acquire these remarkable pieces.
The December 5th auction will showcase an array of stunning jewels, including a remarkable natural pearl, ruby and diamond necklace, alongside a mid-19th century sapphire and diamond masterpiece. Additionally, the auction will feature a collection of exquisite vintage and modern designer pieces, from renowned brands such as Cartier and Tiffany & Co. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, it’s important to remember the importance of jewellery care tips in preserving the beauty and value of your treasures. Stay tuned for more details on how to properly care for and maintain your precious gems and metals.
For those seeking to immerse themselves in the collection's grandeur, the public preview provides an intimate glimpse into centuries of fine jewelry craftsmanship, featuring pieces from celebrated houses like Boucheron, Bulgari, Cartier, and Van Cleef & Arpels.
Each item tells its own story of elegance and sophistication, spanning from the 18th to 21st centuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Dame Joan Store and Maintain Her Extensive Jewelry Collection?
She's meticulous about jewelry organization, using climate-controlled storage with custom compartments and professional cleaning. Her collection preservation includes regular maintenance, secure safekeeping, and careful handling of each precious piece.
What Security Measures Were in Place During Her Ownership of These Pieces?
With 88 retail leaders demanding better security, Dame Joan's collection followed strict security protocols, including restricted access, extensive insurance coverage, and controlled storage environments for ideal protection.
Has Dame Joan Ever Lost or Had Any Pieces Stolen?
Available records and auction history don't indicate any jewelry theft or loss from Dame Joan's collection. Her pieces have remained well-documented and secure throughout their ownership and subsequent sales.
Which Pieces From Her Collection Does Dame Joan Wear Most Frequently?
Among her signature styles, Dame Joan reaches most often for the gold necklace from Dynasty, the Tiffany enamel bangle, and the ruby line bracelet, which have become her personal favorites over time.
Does Dame Joan Plan to Keep Any Signature Pieces From Her Collection?
Precious plans remain private regarding signature pieces she'll preserve, though Dame Joan's consistently curated collection suggests she's likely keeping select gems while sharing others with fellow jewelry enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Like precious gems catching light from every angle, Joan Collins' jewelry collection isn't just a tribute to Hollywood's golden era – it's a glittering narrative of a life lived in the spotlight. As these prized pieces prepare to find new homes, they're carrying forward both Collins' legacy and the timeless allure of classic glamour. The auction isn't merely a sale; it's the passing of a torch that'll illuminate future generations of collectors.
Andrew Wilson
Andrew Wilson is a seasoned writer specializing in the jewellery industry and news. His career began in the newspaper industry, where he honed his reporting skills and developed a keen eye for detail, laying the foundation for his meticulous research in later writing endeavors. Transitioning into marketing, Wilson gained valuable insights into consumer behavior and market trends, enriching his understanding of the jewellery industry when he embraced full-time writing about 15 years ago. In 2019, he discovered a passion for jewellery writing, focusing on market trends and innovative designs. A member of the International Gem Society, Andrew's work is characterized by thorough research and accuracy, offering comprehensive insights into the jewellery world. He occasionally adopts pseudonyms to cater to different audiences and business needs, serving a diverse clientele, including numerous jewellery businesses. Recognized for his unique blend of industry knowledge, research prowess, and engaging writing style, Wilson is dedicated to demystifying the jewellery industry, making it more accessible and understandable to both enthusiasts and professionals.
