Elizabeth Taylor's jewelry collection sold for a record-setting $115 million at auction last night, more than troubling the previous record. How did auction house Christie's pull it off in these tough economic times? To be sure, Taylor had some nice jewelry, but count on an auctioneer to make it sing when it comes time to print up the catalogues. It helped generate sales that were five times greater than expected. Both the choice numbers and the more commonplace items got the same treatment.

What It Is: A pearl necklace from the 17th century

The Christie's Description: La Peregrina A Natural Pearl, Diamond, Ruby and Cultured Pearl Necklace By Cartier

The Estimate: $2,000,000 - $3,000,000

The Actual: $11,842,500

What it Is: A gold chain with diamonds and rubies

The Christie's Description: "THE TAJ MAHAL AN INDIAN DIAMOND AND JADE PENDANT NECKLACE RUBY AND GOLD CHAIN, BY CARTIER"

The Estimate: $300,000 - $500,000

The Actual: $8,818,500

What it Is: A diamond ring.

The Christie's Description: THE ELIZABETH TAYLOR DIAMOND A DIAMOND RING

The Estimate: $2,500,000 - $3,500,000 

The Actual: $8,818,500

What it Is: A coral bracelet

The Christie's Description: A CORAL, AMETHYST AND DIAMOND "LAMARTINE" BRACELET, BY VAN CLEEF & ARPELS

The Estimate: $40,000 - $60,000

The Actual: $782,500

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Alexander Abad-Santos
Ray Gustini