A historic diamond necklace connected to Marie Antoinette sold for £3.8 million ($4.79 million) at Sotheby’s Geneva auction, surpassing its estimated value of $2.8 million. The piece features over 500 diamonds, some believed to originate from the French queen’s original collection, and measures 26 inches in length. After spending five decades in private Asian ownership, the necklace’s successful sale demonstrates the enduring value of royal jewelry with compelling historical narratives.
Main Highlights
- Historic diamond necklace sold for $4.79 million at Sotheby’s Geneva auction, surpassing estimated value of $1.8-2.8 million.
- Over 500 diamonds in the necklace are believed to include stones from Marie Antoinette’s original 1785 necklace.
- The necklace features three rows of diamonds with diamond tassels, measuring 26 inches in length.
- Independent lab certificates authenticate the diamonds, with many sourced from India’s historic Golconda mines.
- Necklace’s connection to Marie Antoinette and the Diamond Necklace Affair contributed to the French queen’s downfall.
A historic diamond necklace with ties to Marie Antoinette and the infamous 1785 Affair of the Diamond Necklace has fetched an impressive $4.79 million at Sotheby’s Geneva auction. The exceptional piece, featuring over 500 diamonds believed to include stones from the original scandal-ridden necklace, surpassed its estimated value of $1.8 to $2.8 million during the prestigious ‘Royal and Noble Jewels’ sale on November 13, 2024.
The necklace’s historical significance stems from its connection to one of the most notorious scandals of the French monarchy. Originally commissioned by King Louis XV for his mistress, Madame du Barry, the initial piece became entangled in an elaborate scheme orchestrated by Jeanne de la Motte, who forged letters and impersonated Marie Antoinette to acquire the jewels. After taxes and commissions, the final sale price reached 4.26 million francs. The original masterpiece contained 647 precious diamonds and was valued at an astronomical sum for its time. This scandal eventually contributed to the French queen’s downfall and eventual execution in 1793.
The diamond provenance adds considerable value to this remarkable piece, as experts believe the stones originated from the legendary Golconda mines in India, known for producing the world’s most pristine and brilliant diamonds. The necklace’s design features three stunning rows of diamonds, elegantly finished with diamond tassels at each end, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the Georgian era. Each stone was carefully assessed using independent lab certificates to verify its authenticity and value. The complete piece spans an impressive 26 inches in length. Prior to the Geneva auction, the necklace embarked on a global exhibition tour, making stops in London, Hong Kong, New York, and Taiwan. The versatile piece can be worn either open at the neck or crossed like an elegant scarf.
Having remained in private hands for five decades, the necklace emerged from an Asian collection to make its first public appearance in 50 years. Its illustrious history includes being worn at two British coronations and passing through distinguished families, including the Marquesses of Anglesey, further cementing its place in royal history.
The competitive bidding at Sotheby’s Geneva demonstrated the enduring charm of historical jewels with significant provenances. The successful buyer, a private collector bidding via phone, was described as “ecstatic” by Sotheby’s representatives. This enthusiasm reflects the growing market for jewelry pieces with documented connections to notable historical figures and events.
Sotheby’s experts have hailed the necklace as an “incredible survivor of history,” noting its exceptional preservation as a complete Georgian-era piece. The sale underscores the continuing fascination with Marie Antoinette’s legacy and the enduring attraction of jewelry associated with European royalty.
This remarkable transaction not merely represents a significant moment in the auction world but also serves as an indication of the lasting value of historical jewels that carry compelling stories of intrigue, scandal, and royal heritage.
The necklace stands as a tangible link to a pivotal moment in French history, combining exquisite craftsmanship with a fascinating narrative that continues to captivate collectors and historians alike. Its sale at nearly $4.79 million confirms the premium that collectors place on pieces with both exceptional quality and documented historical significance.
Andrew Wilson
Andrew Wilson is a seasoned writer specializing in the jewellery industry and news. His career began in the newspaper industry, where he honed his reporting skills and developed a keen eye for detail, laying the foundation for his meticulous research in later writing endeavors. Transitioning into marketing, Wilson gained valuable insights into consumer behavior and market trends, enriching his understanding of the jewellery industry when he embraced full-time writing about 15 years ago. In 2019, he discovered a passion for jewellery writing, focusing on market trends and innovative designs. A member of the International Gem Society, Andrew's work is characterized by thorough research and accuracy, offering comprehensive insights into the jewellery world. He occasionally adopts pseudonyms to cater to different audiences and business needs, serving a diverse clientele, including numerous jewellery businesses. Recognized for his unique blend of industry knowledge, research prowess, and engaging writing style, Wilson is dedicated to demystifying the jewellery industry, making it more accessible and understandable to both enthusiasts and professionals.
