Emerald from a 400-year old shipwreck could break auction record at Sotheby's

Considered a trophy from one of the most successful treasure hunts of all time, the emerald was found only 37 years ago, off the coast of Florida. The emerald is one of the most important treasures recovered from the shipwrecked galleon.

Offered from the collection of author and distinguished philanthropist, Mitzi Perdue, who was gifted the gem upon her engagement in 1988 by late husband Frank Perdue, this storybook emerald will be offered at Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels auction on 7th December in New York, with full proceeds donated to support the humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.

The octagonal step-cut emerald ring, estimated at $50/70,000, joins an outstanding line-up of highly covetable jewels in Sotheby’s auction, including the 303.10-carat Golden Canary diamond – the largest flawless or internally flawless diamond ever graded by the GIA.

Alexander Eblen, Senior Specialist of Sotheby’s Jewelry Department in New York, commented: “While it has become tradition for Sotheby’s to feature the most desired, extraordinary jewels with historical and royal provenance, it is not every day that we offer long-lost hidden treasures discovered from the depths of the sea, concealed by tide and time for centuries. We are honoured to be entrusted with this emblem of history from the collection of Mitzi Perdue to benefit such a wonderful and worthy cause.”

Mitzi Perdue, added: “I'm overjoyed to offer this extraordinary piece from my private collection. While I have cherished my beautiful engagement ring for over 30 years, I would like to use it now to benefit the great people of Ukraine. I am honored to partner with Sotheby's in offering this jewel for auction this year, on the 400th anniversary of the Atocha Shipwreck, and I know my late husband, Frank Perdue, would share my desire to help those in dire need.