NEW YORK – 26 MAY 2026 – Phillips is pleased to present The New York Jewels Auction, taking place on 10 June 2026, showcasing an exceptional selection of rare gemstones, important diamonds, and signed jewels from the world’s most prestigious houses. Led by vibrant colored gemstones and a strong offering of Paraiba tourmalines, the sale highlights the continued demand for rarity, color, and craftsmanship among collectors. Among the standout lots is an important Paraiba tourmaline and diamond ring weighing 31.77 carats, alongside notable emeralds, diamonds, and iconic creations by makers such as Harry Winston, Cartier, and David Webb. Leading up to the live auction, a public exhibition will take place at 432 Park Avenue from 5–9 June.
Dianne Batista, Head of Jewels, New York, said, “This season’s New York Jewels Auction celebrates the extraordinary beauty and rarity of colored gemstones, with Paraiba tourmalines at the forefront of collector interest. From electric-blue tourmalines to exceptional emeralds and diamonds, the sale brings together colorful jewels that combine provenance, craftsmanship, and enduring appeal for today’s global collectors. We are also honored to have been entrusted with jewelry from the collections of Irma Nicolas and Tina Hills. Ms. Nicolas’ collection reflects a lifetime of vision, elegance, and entrepreneurial spirit, expressed through her refined eye for exceptional signed jewels and an exquisite Fancy Intense Yellow Diamond Ring. Mrs. Hills’ collection reveals her vibrant, creative life in the arts, with jewels that function as miniature works of art that are bold, expressive, and deeply connected to her passion for color, design, and cultural patronage.”
EXTRAORDINARY PARAIBA TOURMALINES
Discovered only in the late 20th century, Paraiba tourmalines have made waves since debuting in the fine gemstone category, where emeralds, rubies, and sapphires have reigned. Their irresistible draw is an unmatched, almost unearthly color. From vivid neon blue to green, the striking color results from trace elements copper and manganese, with the most electric blues containing the highest copper levels. With only small known deposits, they are among the scarcest gemstones in the world, and demand for their vivid hues has surged among collectors and leading luxury houses.
Tiffany & Co., with a storied history of introducing new gems, recognized Paraiba tourmalines’ unique qualities very early on and created some of the most beautiful examples of this jewelry. This auction offers the opportunity to own these rare and magnificent gems and explore the variety and beauty of their colors. Among the examples to be offered is an important Paraiba tourmaline and diamond ring centering an oval Paraiba tourmaline weighing 31.77 carats, embellished by marquise-shaped diamonds and blue tourmalines (illustrated page 1). Estimated at $550,000–650,000, the ring stands as a striking showcase of the gemstone’s exceptional color, rarity, and scale.
ELEGANT JEWELS OF A DISTINGUISHED WOMAN: IRMA NICOLAS
Phillips is proud to feature twelve exceptional pieces from the esteemed collection of Irma Nicolas. Ms. Nicolas embodied a distinctly American story of heritage, vision, and entrepreneurial spirit. Born in San Antonio as the daughter of media pioneer Raoul Cortez Sr., she was immersed early in a legacy of advocacy and innovation that helped shape Spanish-language broadcasting in the United States. In 1953, she married Emilio Nicolas, joining him in building a powerful partnership that expanded what would become Univision into a national media force.
A respected businesswoman and philanthropist, she remained deeply committed to her community while raising her family in San Antonio. Over decades, she assembled an exceptional jewelry collection—featuring pieces from Van Cleef & Arpels, David Webb, and Verdura, as well as rare diamonds and pearls—reflecting her distinctive style, sophistication, and enduring legacy. Leading the collection is a fancy intense yellow diamond ring of 14.71 carats. Also included in the Nicolas collection are an elegant Adler diamond necklace, bracelet, and pair of earrings, as well as elegant signed creations by Van Cleef & Arpels, and bold, sculptural designs by David Webb and Verdura, showcasing Ms. Nicolas’ refined eye for craftsmanship and timeless sophistication.
A LIFE IN COLOR: PROPERTY FROM THE ESTATE OF 'TINA' HILLS
Argentina “Tina” Schifano Hills (1921–2025) was a publisher, arts patron, and tireless advocate for a free press in Latin America, whose influence spanned Puerto Rico and Miami. Born in Istria, Italy, she immigrated to New York as a teen, later marrying publisher Angel Ramos and building a groundbreaking career in media, including serving as the first female president of the Inter-American Press Association. After marrying Pulitzer Prize–winning editor Lee Hills, the couple became leading figures in Miami’s cultural life, supporting institutions such as the Pérez Art Museum. Known for her vibrant personality and fearless spirit, Tina was described by her family as “a pioneer in every aspect of her life.” Her distinctive jewelry collection—featuring notable pieces by Oscar Heyman and Picchiotti—reflects her love of color, nature, and joyful self-expression. Phillips has proudly offered works of art and design throughout the Spring season to great enthusiasm from the collecting community.
The New York Jewels Auction will include 41 pieces and another 90 in the New York Jewels Online auction, led by a magnificent Ruby and Diamond Bow Brooch and a rare Piaget, Black Opal and Gold Watch. A fine collection of De Vroomen jewelry will also be featured as part of the collection, including an exceptional Tourmaline, Diamond and Enamel Pendant Brooch De Vroomen is a collaboration of husband and wife, with Leo De Vroomen as goldsmith and Ginnie De Vroomen as designer. Their work is best characterized by exceptional colored gems uniquely combined with the most suberb basse-taille enamel on 18k yellow gold to create miniature pieces of art.
(Press Release)
