A rare diamond necklace, estimated at around 300 carats, was the highlight of Sotheby’s Royal and Noble Jewels sale in Geneva, fetching $4.8 million. The necklace, which had not been publicly seen in 50 years, exceeded its $2.8 million high estimate after a seven-minute bidding war, according to Sotheby’s.
Previously owned by Marjorie Paget, the marchioness of Anglesey and the eldest daughter of Henry Manners, the eighth duke of Rutland, the necklace has a rich history. It was worn at the coronations of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth II. Some of the diamonds in the piece may even have ties to Marie Antoinette.
Sotheby’s chairman of jewelry for Europe and the Middle East, Andres White Correal, called the necklace “sans pareil,” highlighting its beauty, history, and timeless appeal. “From the moment we saw it, our entire team was captivated. The excitement in the sales room was undeniable, and it will be one of my fondest memories to have been part of finding its new owner,” he said.
The auction, held on November 13, followed Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels sale. Combined, the two events raised $30.7 million, with bids from over 330 participants worldwide. Sotheby’s reported that 87% of the lots at the Magnificent Jewels sale sold, and every item in the Royal and Noble Jewels sale was sold.
Related topics:
- $5M Cartier Diamond Necklace Smashes Pre-Sale Estimate at Christie’s Auction
- KP Members Need to Redefine Conflict Diamonds
- Red Rock Shines at $13.8M Phillips Geneva Jewelry Auction
