Auction of the Week: Bulgari Choker Owned by Madeleine Albright Doubles Estimate

On May 7 and 8, Freeman’s | Hindman sold a portion of The Private Collection of Secretary Madeleine K. Albright. The sale fetched more than quadruple its pre-sale estimate. The late Secretary Albright’s love of jewelry was well known. A statement from the auction house reported that to the former secretary of state, who served under President Clinton from 1997 to 2001, jewelry was often used as a subtle—and sometimes not so subtle—form of diplomacy. The top lot was a Bulgari white gold and diamond “Fireworks” choker necklace, which doubled its estimate to realize $24,130.

Her extensive brooch collection was referred to as her “personal diplomatic arsenal,” and it was a highlight of the sale. A diamond, ruby, and sapphire Patriotic Leopard Pendant/Brooch (Lot 4) featuring an American flag sold for $10,795, while a collection of suffragette-themed jewelry (Lot 2) realized $6,985, nearly ten times its low estimate.