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The Dazzling World of Heidi Horten: A Record-Breaking Auction Amid Controversy

Author Tom Smith

Posted on Last updated:

Hey there, jewel junkies! The glitz and glam of the auction world just hit a new high, but not without its fair share of drama.

Bulgari Coloured Diamond and Emerald Bangle
Image via Christies – Bulgari Coloured Diamond and Emerald Bangle – Sold for $500’000

The late Austrian billionaire, Heidi Horten’s jaw-droppingly gorgeous jewelry collection just made history, raking in a cool $201 million. Yes, you read that right, million.

The Sunrise Ruby - Cartier Ruby and Diamond Ring
Image via Christies – The Sunrise Ruby – Cartier Ruby and Diamond Ring – Sold for $14.5 million

The Lady and Her Lavish Collection

Heidi Horten, a name synonymous with opulence and art, left behind an assortment of over 700 drool-worthy jewels.

Image via Christies - Heidi Horten
Image via Christies – Heidi Horten

From emerald bangles by Bulgari to the 90-carat “Briolette of India” diamond necklace, her collection was a treasure trove of sparkle and shine.

Magnificient Harry Winston Briolette of India Diamond Necklace
Image via Christies – Magnificient Harry Winston Briolette of India Diamond Necklace – Sold for $7 million

Going Once, Going Twice, Sold!

This monumental sale took place last week at the swanky Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues in Geneva, Switzerland, and was accompanied by an online auction.

The glitzy pieces fetched more than anyone ever imagined, breaking the record set by the legendary Elizabeth Taylor’s collection in 2011.

Bulgari Diamond Sapphire and Emerald Necklace
Image via Christies – Bulgari Diamond Sapphire and Emerald Necklace – Sold for $1.6 million

Yet, not all that glitters is gold. Several big-ticket items, including a ruby and diamond Cartier ring and a Harry Winston diamond necklace, surprisingly underperformed at the auction.

Every Gem Has Its Flaws

Just like every diamond, this auction had its share of imperfections. The sheen of the sale was dimmed by a controversy surrounding the source of Horten’s wealth.

The Great Mogul Harry Winston Emerald and Diamond Pendant
Image via Christies – The Great Mogul Harry Winston Emerald and Diamond Pendant

Heidi’s husband, Helmut Horten, allegedly profited from Jewish businesses sold under duress during the Nazi era.

This led to numerous Jewish groups calling for a halt to the auction until a thorough investigation was conducted.

BULGARI COLOURED DIAMOND AND DIAMOND BROOCH
Image via Christies – BULGARI COLOURED DIAMOND AND DIAMOND BROOCH – Sold for $5 million

But the show went on. Christie’s, the veteran auction house, defended its decision to proceed, citing that the source of Horten’s wealth was a matter of public record.

They also made a commitment to make a significant contribution from the sale’s proceeds to organizations advancing Holocaust research and education.

CARTIER 65 carats SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND RING
Image via Christies – CARTIER 65 carats SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND RING

A Glittering Legacy

Let’s not forget that this dazzling auction was not just about record-breaking prices and controversy. The proceeds will also go to The Heidi Horten Foundation, a beacon of philanthropy, supporting causes such as medical research, child welfare, and, of course, art.

TWO-STRAND JADEITE AND DIAMOND NECKLACE
Image via Christies – TWO-STRAND JADEITE AND DIAMOND NECKLACE – Sold for $1.8 million

The Bling Continues

If you missed out on this extravagant spectacle, worry not!

Another online auction is set to take place in November, which means there’s still a chance for you to grab a slice of this glittering pie.