A remarkable diamond necklace, believed to be tied to the infamous scandal that contributed to the downfall of Queen Marie Antoinette, has sold for 4.26 million Swiss francs (approximately $4.81 million) at an auction in Geneva. The Georgian-era masterpiece, featuring 300 carats of dazzling diamonds, far exceeded its anticipated value, capturing the interest of collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.
Put up for sale by an anonymous Asian private collector, the necklace, which was expected to fetch around 2 million francs, ignited an intense bidding war at Sotheby’s, where it ultimately found a new owner. The sale, which took place on Wednesday evening, was described as “electric” by Andres White Correal, Sotheby’s jewelry specialist, who confirmed that the necklace was purchased by a private, undisclosed female buyer.
This extraordinary necklace is believed to hold a deep connection to the legendary Diamond Necklace Affair, a 1785 scandal that nearly brought down the French monarchy. At the heart of the drama was a fraudulent scheme involving a noblewoman named Jeanne de la Motte, who impersonated Marie Antoinette to acquire a massive diamond necklace intended for the Queen. While Marie Antoinette was eventually cleared of any involvement in the scheme, the affair significantly tarnished her reputation and played a role in the growing unrest that led to the French Revolution and the subsequent fall of the monarchy.
While the original necklace’s diamonds were broken up and sold off after the scandal, experts believe that some of the diamonds in the recently sold necklace may be part of that same original piece, based on their age, quality, and historical context. The necklace itself, designed in the 1770s, was crafted to resemble a scarf, and can be worn either open or elegantly knotted at the front—a stunningly versatile piece.
The necklace’s captivating history doesn’t end with its royal connection. The jewel was previously owned by notable figures, including the Marquess of Anglesey in Britain, who passed it down through generations. It was even worn by a family member during Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation—adding yet another layer of prestige to this already legendary piece.
White Correal noted the special appeal of historical jewelry, stating, “There is obviously a niche in the market for jewels with fabulous provenances. People are not only buying an object; they are buying a piece of history.” This sentiment is likely what drove the intense bidding, as collectors vied to own a jewel imbued with centuries of history, intrigue, and royal legacy.
The winning bidder, described as “ecstatic” after securing the necklace, expressed her gratitude and awe at the purchase. “I’m exceptionally happy that I won this lot,” she said, “but I don’t own it, I’m merely the custodian until the next person comes along.”
As the new custodian of this extraordinary piece, the buyer not only takes possession of a stunning jewel but also of the rich, dramatic history that surrounds it—making this diamond necklace much more than just a breathtaking work of art.
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