A sapphire and diamond ring, by Van Cleef & Arpels. Photo Philips de Pury & Co

The oval-shaped sapphire, weighing 15.38 carats, to the tapered baguette-cut diamond shoulders, signed ‘VCA NY’, numbered ‘3238 SO’, ring size M ½.  ESTIMATE £50,000-60,000 - SOLD AT £63,650

PROVENANCE Accompanied by report number 2854/11, dated 27 January 2011, from Gemlab, Liechtenstein, stating that the sapphire is of Sri Lankan origin with no indications of heating or any other treatment.

Philips de Pury & Co. Jewels. 1 june 2011. London www.phillipsdepury.com