A stunning 300-carat diamond necklace with ties to Marie Antoinette is set to be auctioned by Sotheby's this fall, with an estimated price of $2.8 million. This historic piece, crafted in the 18th century, has not been exhibited in 50 years and is steeped in royal intrigue.
Rumored to contain diamonds linked to the infamous "Affair of the Diamond Necklace" scandal of 1785, the necklace's story is both scandalous and captivating. Marie Antoinette was misled into believing she was purchasing the necklace, leading to public outrage and further tarnishing the monarchy's reputation.
In the 20th century, the necklace was owned by the Marquesses of Anglesey, who had close ties to the British royal family. It was worn during significant royal events, including the coronation of King George VI in 1937 and Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.
The necklace will embark on a global tour, visiting cities like London, Hong Kong, New York, and Dubai before its live auction in Geneva, Switzerland, on November 11. This sale not only highlights the enduring allure of royal artifacts but also reflects the high demand for historically significant jewelry in today’s market.