A stunning diamond necklace, believed to be linked to former French queen consort Marie Antoinette is set to be auctioned this November. This exquisite piece from the 18th century, adorned with approximately 500 diamonds is anticipated to sell for between $1.8 million and $2.8 million. It will be showcased to the public for the first time in 50 years, sparking excitement among collectors and history enthusiasts.
What Is the Historical Significance of The Diamond Necklace?
Crafted in the decade before the French Revolution in 1789, this stunning necklace weighs a remarkable weight of 300 carats. It consists of three rows of diamonds beautifully finished with diamond tassels at each end.
British-founded MNC, Sotheby will auction this piece in the Royal & Noble Jewels sale in Geneva on November 11. The online bidding is set to commence on October 25. Sotheby is a British-founded multinational corporation and is the world’s largest broker of fine and decorative art, jewellery, and collectibles.
Andres White Correal, Chairman of Sotheby’s Royal and Noble Sales for Europe and the Middle East emphasized the extraordinary rarity of the piece. He stated, “Normally, jewellery from the 18th century was repurposed, so to have an intact jewel of this magnitude is exceptionally rare”. The jewel’s excellent preserved condition enhances both its value and historical significance.
Necklace Connection To Marie Antoinette And Historical Scandal
The necklace’s connections to Marie Antoinette add a captivating layer to its story. Some of the diamonds are believed to have originated from the infamous “Affair of Diamond Necklace”, a scandal that severely tarnished the reputation of the last queen consort of France. This event significantly fueled public discontent, which led to the French Revolution and contributed to her downfall.
The exact origins of the necklace remain unclear, experts suggest it was probably commissioned for a royal family, due to its remarkable craftsmanship and historical context. The piece is thought to have been created during the late 18th century. The period was characterized by both luxury and political turmoil.
Who Were the Previous Owners Of The Rare Diamond Necklace?
Historically, the necklace has passed through the hands of the Marquesses of Anglesey, an Anglo-Welsh aristocratic family. Members of this family wore the necklace during notable occasions, including the coronations of King George VI in 1937 and Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. This illustrious history adds significant prestige to this already valuable piece.
Sotheby suggests that the diamonds are probably sourced from the legendary Golconda mines in India. The mines are renowned for producing some of the purest and most dazzling diamonds ever mined. This origin not only elevates the necklace’s allure but also connects it to a rich tradition of gemstone craftsmanship.
When Was the First Public Display of The Rare Necklace?
The Necklace has been showcased at Sotheby’s London galleries since September 23, 2024. The recent showcase marked its first public display in decades. After this display, it will begin a tour, visiting prominent cities in Hong Kong, New York, and Taiwan. The purpose of this tour is to create buzz and draw attention to the upcoming auction.
As the auction date approaches, the anticipation surrounding the necklace intensifies. Collectors and history enthusiasts are eager for the opportunity to acquire a piece of jewellery. The jewellery has deep historical roots and ties to one of history’s most famous figures.
Mallika Sadhu is a journalist committed to revealing the raw, unfiltered truth. Mallika's work is grounded in a dedication to transparency and integrity, aiming to present clear and impactful stories that matter. Through comprehensive reporting and honest storytelling, she strives to contribute to provide narratives that genuinely inform and engage. When not dwelling in the world of journalism, she is immersed in the colors of her canvas and pages of her journal.
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