A rare diamond necklace, making its first public appearance in 50 years, is set to go up for auction at the end of October. The necklace, possibly linked to French royalty, has captured significant attention. Sotheby’s recently showcased this extraordinary piece, described as one of the rarest diamond necklaces ever to be auctioned. Weighing approximately 300 carats, the late 18th-century necklace was publicly revealed for the first time this week.
Although its exact origin remains unclear, it is believed to have been crafted just before the French Revolution. According to Reuters, the necklace may have connections to former French queen consort Marie Antoinette. In 1937, Marjorie Paget, Marchioness of Anglesey, wore it to the coronation of King George VI, a moment captured by photographer Cecil Beaton. In 1953, her daughter-in-law wore the same heirloom jewels to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
The necklace is estimated to be worth over $2.8 million. It will be available for public viewing in London from September 24 to September 25, before embarking on a global tour with stops in Hong Kong, New York, Singapore, Taipei, and Dubai ahead of the Royal and Noble Jewels live auction at Sotheby’s Geneva on November 11. The bidding will open on October 25.
Andres White Correal, Chairman and Head of Royal and Noble Sales at Sotheby’s for Europe and the Middle East, remarked to Reuters that diamonds were often repurposed, especially since the Golconda mines in India ceased production at the end of the 18th century. He noted that most 18th-century jewels were dismantled to keep up with fashion trends, making an intact jewel of this significance, size, and diamond quality exceptionally rare.
