Shirley Temple’s rare blue diamond ring didn’t sell at the Sotheby’s April 19 Magnificent Jewels auction in New York City. The ring with 9.54-carat Fancy Deep Blue diamond, which don’t exist anywhere else was purchased by Temple’s father for $7,210 in 1940, around the time of the actress’ 12th birthday and when her film “The Blue Bird” premiered. However, bidding reportedly reached $22 million, below its reserve price. The auction house’s estimate was $25 million to $35 million. The ring has VVS2 clarity and is considered potentially internally flawless.
A Sotheby’s statement said, “The Shirley Temple Blue Diamond is an exceptional stone in quality, rarity, and provenance. It has been an honor to share its story with collectors, connoisseurs and Temple’s loyal fans over the past few months. Unfortunately, tonight wasn’t its night in the sales room, but we remain fully confident that it will find a buyer.”
Temple wore the diamond ring throughout her life, the auction house said.