Anne H. Bass, a renowned philanthropist known for her elegance and contributions to cultural causes, is offering a rare opportunity to view her exquisite jewelry collection. Christie’s will auction The Jewelry Collection of Anne H. Bass as part of their Magnificent Jewels sale, taking place on June 17, 2025, at Rockefeller Center in New York City.
The collection features 26 exceptional pieces, showcasing Bass’s refined taste and appreciation for high-quality craftsmanship. Known for her influence on New York’s cultural scene through artistic patronage, Bass has become one of the city’s most respected cultural and style icons. Each item in her collection has been carefully selected and worn by Bass, reflecting her sophisticated personal style.
Claibourne Poindexter, Senior Specialist in Christie’s Jewelry Department, commented, “The jewelry collection of Anne H. Bass exemplifies refined taste. Each piece was thoughtfully chosen and carries deep personal significance. Highlights include an important pair of white diamond pendant earrings by Van Cleef & Arpels and a bold carved ruby and emerald collar by David Webb, both showcasing Bass’s exceptional sense of style.
One of the most notable features of the auction is a selection of pieces by the legendary jewelry designer Joel Arthur Rosenthal, known as JAR. These rare works, featured in the acclaimed 2002 publication JAR Volume I, offer collectors a unique chance to acquire historically significant and beautifully crafted jewelry.
The auction has garnered global attention, with collectors eager to acquire pieces from renowned jewelry houses such as Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, Bulgari, and JAR. These pieces transcend mere adornment; they are elevated to the status of wearable art.
A standout piece in the auction is a pair of Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Pendant Earrings, expected to sell for between $1.2 million and $1.8 million. Known for their expertise in balance and movement, Van Cleef & Arpels created these earrings with pear-shaped diamonds that seem to float in midair, reflecting light from every angle.
Another major highlight is the collection of eleven remarkable pieces by JAR. Known for his avant-garde designs and exclusive, one-of-a-kind creations, JAR is a famously elusive designer. Among the featured works is a sapphire and emerald necklace with diamond accents, valued between $200,000 and $300,000. Bass’s collection demonstrates her admiration for bold, expressive design, captured perfectly in these unique pieces.
This auction is more than just an offering of fine jewelry; it also serves as a testament to Anne Bass’s lasting legacy. Bass made significant contributions to American arts, including her efforts to rescue Texas Ballet Theatre from bankruptcy and her 25-year tenure on the New York City Ballet board. Her jewelry collection reflects the same values: understated elegance and refinement combined with personal warmth.
In addition to the jewelry auction, Anne H. Bass: The New York Interiors and Jewelry Exhibition will be held concurrently. This exhibition, which features decorative arts and furnishings from her famed Manhattan apartment, offers further insight into Bass’s world. Together, these events provide a complete portrait of a woman whose taste and values helped shape the cultural landscape.
Related topics:
- Do Emerald and Amethyst Necklaces Have Cultural Traditions?
- What Do Freshwater Pearl – Amethyst Necklaces Symbolize?
- How to Tell if an Amethyst Rock is Real?
