A sapphire and diamond ring, 21.56 carats. A ruby and diamond flower brooch, Aletto Bros. Equally longstanding is the tradition of giving and wearing jewels to express sentiments of love, affection, and devotion. Sold here at Sotheby's in 1969, it was the first diamond to sell for more than one million dollars. While at one time jewelry was the exclusive realm of monarchy and nobility, collecting jewels is now within the means of many. It can make an extravagant statement or be frivolous fun.
Pieces can be as serious as an engagement ring or as blithe as a pair of animal brooches.