Inside Susan Gutfreund's Spectacular Chanel Runway Jewelry Collection Up for Auction with Christie's

Karl Lagerfeld had many high-profile friends throughout his illustrious life, but few were lucky enough to be considered part of his inner circle. New York socialite, hostess, and tastemaker Susan Gutfreund, who welcomed VERANDA into both her New York and Paris apartments, a was one such friend who secured a spot as as a close confidante, bonding with the Chanel creative director over their mutual love for France, its finest furniture, Louis XVI–era extravagance, and 18th-century antiques.

Once deemed "The King of Wall Street's Marie Antoinette" (her husband was John Gutfreund of the former Wall Street firm Salomon Brothers), Susan Gutfreund's close ties to Lagerfeld are best presented in her one-of-a-kind collection of Chanel runway jewels gifted by Lagerfeld, which is up for auction with Christie's this month. Considering these pieces were designed specifically for the runway and were not featured in retail stores, they are delicate and intended for occasional wear but would make uniquely beautiful additions to any jewelry collection. From classic pearl pieces you can imagine Coco Chanel herself donning to exotic pieces inspired by nature, discover some of the most exciting jewels available for auction online from January 14–29. This auction is one of four featuring the brilliant collections of the Gutfreunds; the other three will also happen this month and will feature home decor and furniture, items for entertaining, and a mix of art and books from their Fifth Avenue apartment library.

These unsigned, oversize faux pearl and resin earrings featuring dangling urns are estimated to be worth $3,000 to $5,000.

This stunning gripoix glass necklace and brooch set is estimated to be worth $3,000 to $5,000

These beautiful gripoix glass and faux pearl earrings feel as timeless as ever with an estimated price $800 to $1,200.

Brooches are our favorite way to get Zoom-ready (besides having a craft cocktail nearby), and this beautiful pair is estimated to be worth $2,000 to $3,000.

This beautiful piece of arm candy is estimated to be worth $1,500 to $2,000.

These precious posts are estimated to be worth $600 to $800.

This whimsically elegant layered choker necklace is estimated to be worth $1,000 to $1,500.

Simple elegance at its finest, this necklace is estimated to be worth $2,000 to $3,000.

These mismatched posts are estimated to be worth $300 to $500.

This funky mesh choker set is estimated to be worth $1,500 to $2,000.

This darling set that feels like pieces Coco Chanel would have worn for any occasion is estimated to be worth $3,600 to $5,800.

This swoon-worthy brooch is estimated to be worth $1,000 to $1,500.

This vibrant, exotic piece is estimated to be worth $3,000 to $5,000.

This edgy yet elegant set of cuffs is estimated to be worth $1,500 to $2,000.

This sophisticated set of jewels is estimated to be worth $1,500 to $2,000.

Designed after one of our favorite blooms, these earrings are estimated to be worth $2,000 to $3,000.

We are jonesing for this breathtaking bracelet that is estimated to be worth $1,200 to $1,800.

This pearl-studded pendants are estimated to be worth $1,500 to $2,000.

Anticipated to be one of the most exciting jewelry selections in the auction, this set is estimated to be worth $4,000 to $6,000.

This dainty floral brooch is estimated to be worth $500 to $700.

What feels like the essence of the larger-than-life Gabrielle Chanel, this necklace is estimated to be worth $2,000 to $3,000.

Another edgy yet elegant item from the Chanel runway, this set of bracelets is estimated to be worth $1,500 to $2,000.

This stylized badge set is estimated to be worth $500 to $700.

These ultra-feminine pendants are estimated to be worth $2,000 to $3,000.

This sculptural cuff is estimated to be worth $1,000 to $1,500.

This blue beauty is estimated to be worth $2,000 to $3,000.

This fabulous hair accessories are estimated to be worth $1,500 to $2,000.

These splendid pink and red earrings are estimated to be worth $500 to $700.

This pastel version of the previous set is anticipated to be worth $500 to $700.

This lively monochrome brooch is estimated to be worth $2,000 to $3,000.

This captivating choker is estimated to be worth $1,000 to $2,000.

This chic cuff set is estimated to be worth between $1,000 to $1,500.

These baroque faux pearl and aurora borealis rhinestone cuffs are estimate to be worth $2,000 to $3,000.

This set of eclectic-chic charm jewelry is estimated to be worth $3,000 to $5,000.

These knockout earrings are estimated to be worth $1,500 to $2,000.

Want to see more? Browse the full collection of 106 items on Christie's online auction site.