Jewelry bought by actor Steve McQueen for first wife Neile Adams McQueen
LOS ANGELES – Bonhams presents the first California Jewels of 2024 on February 13. The 350-lot sale features the spectacular 13-lot collection of Neile Adams McQueen (born 1932), first wife of actor Steve McQueen (1930 –1980) presented alongside wonderful jewels including Fancy colored diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires.
The sale also offers statement gold and diamond designs from the Hammerman Brothers, bold gemstone creations from Tony Duquette and timeless everyday styles from Maisons including Tiffany & Co., Cartier and more.
Emily Waterfall, Director of Jewelry Department, in Los Angeles, says: “The first California Jewels sale of 2024, includes some extraordinary jewelry with exceptional stones and exquisite craftsmanship.
“We are honored to present the collection of Neile Adams McQueen which embodies her taste and discernment as a collector and celebrates such a spectacular figure in entertainment history.”
American actress, singer, and dancer Neile Adams McQueen’s prolific career on Broadway, on television, and in the movies has spanned eight decades, during which time she married legendary actor Steve McQueen in 1956, four months after their first meeting.
California Jewels has on offer 13-lots of her personal collection of jewelry, including a dazzling fancy light yellow diamond ring purchased for Neile by Steve McQueen on their 13th wedding anniversary.
Notable Neile Adams McQueen highlights include:
- Purchased by Steve McQueen on their 13th wedding anniversary – a platinum, Fancy light yellow diamond and diamond ring featuring a central pear-shaped brilliant-cut Fancy light yellow diamond of VS2 clarity, weighing 5.92 carats, accented by tapered-baguette diamonds. Offered with an estimate of US$25,000-35,000.(Picture credit: Bonhams)
- A platinum and diamond ring signed ‘Monture Cartier’ to signify that it was created for special clients. The ring highlights an old European-cut diamond weighing approximately 3.80 carats. The jewel was first sought by Steve McQueen for himself, but after deciding it wasn’t right for him, Neile declared it would be perfect for her. Offered with an estimate of US$25,000-35,000.
- A platinum, ruby, and diamond bombe-inspired ring, featuring round and baguette diamonds, weighing approximately 2.45 carats and cascades of rectangular and square step-cut rubies. Offered with an estimate of US$1,500-2,500.
