One of the Most Historically Important Diamond Necklaces Sold At Auction
The gorgeous 18th-century diamond jewel includes ties to multiple British Royal Coronations and even a possible link to Marie Antoinette and the start of the French Revolution.
(Courtesy of Sotheby’s)
Sotheby’s made history this November with the auction of an extraordinary 18th-century diamond jewel, a masterpiece of European aristocracy that, not only survived the passage of time, but also played a role in British royal history. This 300-carat natural diamond necklace, sold for $4.8 million, is a rare and precious artifact, more than just a stunning example of Georgian-era craftsmanship. It’s a piece of history embodying the opulence and intrigue of European courts, and you can witness its auction.
One of the most captivating aspects of this jewel is its provenance. The necklace has been worn at two British coronations, most notably by Marjorie Paget, Marchioness of Anglesey, who donned the piece at the coronation of King George VI in 1937, along with the famous Anglesey diamond tiara. Her daughter-in-law wore it again in 1953 for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. These moments are etched in history in iconic photographs. In the 1960s, the seventh Marquess of Anglesey decided to part ways with the extraordinary piece. Afterward, it gained significant recognition when displayed at the prestigious Bicentennial Exhibition at the American Museum of Natural History in 1976. Following this exhibition, a prominent Asian collector acquired the piece, and it has quietly remained for decades.
What makes this jewel so remarkable, aside from its royal connections, is the speculation surrounding its origin. While the exact origins are lost to history, it’s clear that such an extraordinary piece could only have been commissioned for someone of immense stature. The craftsmanship and grandeur suggest it was likely created for the opulent courts of France or England during the decade before the French Revolution. Experts believe some of the diamonds that adorn this necklace could trace their beginnings to the infamous “Affair of the Necklace,” a pivotal scandal fueling public discontent leading up to the French Revolution and Marie Antoinette‘s death. Though this claim is not fully verified, the mere possibility that these diamonds were once part of such a scandalous chapter in history adds intrigue and allure to this already exquisite piece.
The diamonds themselves are from the legendary Golconda mines of India, the source of some of the world’s most famous and extraordinary natural diamonds. These Golconda diamonds are celebrated for their unmatched purity, bringing an undeniable historical weight to the necklace. The necklace, composed of three rows of old mine-cut diamonds weighing approximately 300 carats, glows with the same regal brilliance today as it did over two centuries ago. The design allows the diamonds to be worn as a necklace or even sewn onto clothing, showcasing the technical ingenuity of 18th-century craftsmanship. The tassels at the ends add a delicate, opulent touch, reflecting the style and grandeur of the era.
(Courtesy of Sotheby’s)
Andres White Correal, Sotheby’s Head of Noble Jewels, comments on the piece, saying, “This rare and important diamond jewel is a sublime survivor from the opulent court life of the Georgian era, defined by its unrivaled pomp and splendor; it is arguably one of the most magnificent and intact Georgian jewels in private hands. When compared to other surviving Imperial and Royal jewels from the same period, this necklace stands head and shoulders above these examples; it is a fortune in diamonds and also a masterclass in exquisite design, workmanship, and technical innovation for the period. The jewel is as relevant, alluring, and appealing today as when it was made over two centuries ago. It is the nec plus ultra of 18th-century jewelry design.”
The global tour for this historic diamond jewel begins in London and moves to Sotheby’s locations in Hong Kong, New York, Singapore, Taipei, and Dubai. Each stop will allow collectors and connoisseurs to witness this dazzling symbol of European history firsthand before it goes under the hammer in Geneva on November 11th.
This auction presents a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness and potentially own a tangible piece of royal history. This necklace is far more than a piece of luxury; it is a relic that has witnessed two royal coronations and may even be linked to one of history’s most infamous scandals. Its uniqueness and immense historical and cultural significance make it a must-see event for collectors and lovers of historic jewels and rare natural diamonds.
