A free exhibition of gemstones and designer jewelry at Sotheby’s.

Published by Graziella de Sortiraparis · Photos by Audrey de Sortiraparis · Updated on March 24, 2026 at 06:56 p.m.
Attention jewelry enthusiasts: from March 27 to 30, 2026, the prestigious Sotheby’s Paris salons will transform into an exhibition space where the public can view free of charge masterpieces by Cartier or Van Cleef & Arpels, ahead of the auction.

From March 27 to March 30, 2026, Sotheby’s will open its doors to the public free of charge for its first jewelry sale of the year. Between classic and contemporary pieces, this exhibition offers a rare chance to study up close creations signed by Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels or Chaumet—before they head to auction.

Among the standout pieces, a Cartier pendant set with a 12.76-carat sapphire dazzles with its purity, alongside a brooch Art déco brooch from the Leysen house shown at the 1925 World's Fair, a true journey through time. The exhibition also spotlights stones of extraordinary rarity, including this Van Cleef & Arpels diamond of 7.39 carats, estimated at up to 550,000 euros. It’s a rare chance to glimpse pieces from aristocratic collections, such as this natural pearl necklace linked to the Austrian imperial family, before they disappear again into private collections.

You can enjoy this exhibition from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for a few days (except on March 29 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and the day before from 11 a.m.), but don’t be surprised if some visitors are here to scrutinize the lots closely—many buyers drop by during the show to make their pick! For those hoping to bid on March 31, the minimum budget is far from accessible, since the lowest price starts at €40,000.

Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
From March 27, 2026 to March 30, 2026

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.

    Location

    83 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré
    75008 Paris 8

    Route planner
    Access
    Metro 9 or 13 Miromesnil

    Prices
    Free

    Official website
    www.sothebys.com

    Comments
    Refine your search
    Refine your search
    Refine your search
    Refine your search