Billionaire Heidi Horten’s Astounding Collection Of Jewelry
Billionaire Heidi Horten’s Jewelry is set to go on auction in Geneva, with a pre-sale estimate of a whopping $150- million. In fact, Horten’s collection is the largest and most expensive private collection to ever come to auction.
Horton collected jewelry from the 1970s until her death last year at age 81. As a result, the reason for the auction is to donate a large portion of the proceeds to the Heidi Horten Foundation. The Foundation was established by Horton herself in 2020 to support Vienna’s museum of modern and contemporary art.
Markedly, Anthea Peers, the president of the auction house said,
“The late Mrs. Horten has created an important framework to secure the operation of her museum for decades to come. Ensuring the enjoyment of the arts for enthusiasts around the globe.”
By and large, the extravagance of the jewels knows no bounds, the collection contains some of the world’s most precious diamonds and colored gemstones. Including 3 pieces by Harry Winston such as a 90 carat ‘Briolette of India’ diamond necklace, originally sold by Cartier in 1909. Also shown are a ‘The Great Mughal’, and a 25 Carat Carat ‘Sunrise Ruby’ ring.
Pieces From the Collection
The Sunrise Ruby Cartier Harry Winston “The Briolette of India” “The Great Mughal”
Sapphire Colored Diamond Brooch Diamond Sapphire and Emerald Necklace
Aside from one of a kind Cartier pieces; the collection also holds the record for the largest curated collection of Bulgari jewelry. The Italian designer specializes in fine jewelry since 1884.
This isn’t Horten’s first time in the limelight. Back in 2008 she sold the 35 carat Wittelbach Diamond, formerly part of the Crown Jewels of Bavaria for $24 million.
Currently, due to the nature of the collection it will be touring the world, and will even be on view in New York from April 14-20. Some of the other places include London, Shanghai, Dubai, and Singapore.
Overall, the collection is historical and Heidi Horten’s jewelry speaks for itself in beauty and craftmanship. This is a rare opportunity to see these pieces before they again return into the private sector.