On June 3, 1997, Diana, Princess of Wales, attended a performance of “Swan Lake” at the Royal Albert Hall in London. This event was one of her final public appearances before her tragic death in August of the same year. More than twenty-six years later, images of Diana, often called the “People’s Princess,” continue to captivate. That evening, she wore a striking ensemble that included a beaded Jacques Azagury minidress, satin Jimmy Choo pumps, and a custom-made South Sea pearl necklace by Garrard. The necklace, designed by Garrard based on Diana’s own ideas, was intended to be paired with matching earrings. However, the earrings were not completed before her death. Diana was notably photographed in this outfit more frequently than on other occasions, with the exception of her wedding day in 1981.
The Swan Lake Suite, which includes these jewels, is set to be auctioned on June 27 at the Pierre Hotel on New York City’s Upper East Side. The auction is expected to generate between £5 million and £15 million (approximately $7 million to $14 million). This auction follows closely on the heels of the coronation of Diana’s ex-husband, King Charles III, which took place on May 6, 2023.
The suite features intricate designs, including a necklace adorned with 164 brilliant-cut diamonds, 14 marquise diamonds, and five cultured pearls, all set in platinum. The earrings, similarly detailed, include 30 diamonds, six marquise diamonds, and two cultured pearls.
Guernsey’s, the auction house handling the sale, notes the historical significance of these pieces. The Swan Lake Suite was the only high jewelry collection worn by Diana to be sold. The proceeds from the auction will support rebuilding efforts in Ukraine following the Russian invasion. The seller, Mark Ginzburg, is a prominent Ukrainian figure. He described the jewels as not merely decorative but as “iconic and treasured.”
Arlan Ettinger, president of Guernsey’s Auctioneers, emphasized Diana’s lasting impact. He noted that while many figures fade from memory, Princess Diana remains as influential today as she was during her time. Ettinger highlighted the uniqueness of the Swan Lake Suite, noting that it was specifically designed for Diana and is considered her only jewelry ever sold, making it exceptionally valuable.
