Online auction dedicated entirely to gemstones set to begin May 7 More than 675 gemstones from a single-owner lifetime collection will be offered without reserve (everything sells, regardless of price) in an Internet-only auction slated to begin May 7 at 2 p.m. (CST
totaling an impressive 60.05 carats and coming in a variety of colors (blue, pink, violet-blue, orange and yellow), ranging in clarity from none to VVS to opaque (OB: $300); and a tray of 18 sky blue tourmaline topaz stones totaling 0.05 carats, in varying grades (OB: $160).
Other lots expected to do well include a 12.48-carat pear-shaped purple/raspberry alexandrite stone with IF clarity and diffusion graded (OB: $300; “a truly gorgeous gemstone,” Mr. Shape said); a 1.76-carat green-orange oval alexandrite stone with IF clarity (OB: $90); and a stunning 5.80 carat yellowish green garnet gemstone, oval and with SI-1 clarity (OB: $475).
The auction will feature more than just the 675-plus stones in the single-owner collection. Also offered will be highly graded gemstones, with appropriately high pre-sale estimates. Two tanzanite stones expected to do well include a 14.01 loose example with fine color and clarity (est. $13,000-$16,200) and a 13.26-carat oval stone, also fine overall (est. $11,380-$14,220).
Diamonds that should command high prices include a 2-carat brilliant oval diamond with VVS-2 clarity (est. $28,500-$35,620); a 2.04-carat round-cut loose diamond with I-1 clarity (est. $15,000-$18,750); a 1.04-carat round princess loose diamond with brilliant VS-1 clarity (est. $10,800-$13,500); and a 1.11-carat round stone with SI-2 clarity, I color (est. $9,200-$11,500).
UniversalLive.com was founded in 1995. The firm has conducted thousands of Internet-based auctions through various venues. Online bidding for most of the auctions is facilitated by LiveAuctioneers.com, iCollector.com and the firm’s own website, www.UniversalLive.com. The firm attributes a large part of its success to proprietary software, which is easy to use and track.
UniversalLive.com specializes in collectibles, militaria, sports memorabilia, fine art, coins, jewelry and other items. The firm is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign an item, a collection or an entire estate, you may call them at (847) 412-9900; or you can e-mail them at marty@universallive.com. All e-mail inquiries are answered promptly.
To learn more about UniversalLive.com and the Spectacular Gems Auction currently underway, please log on to www.UniversalLive.com. Updates are posted frequently.
