A stunning Georgian diamond necklace, rumored to be connected to the infamous "Diamond Necklace Affair" that tarnished the reputation of Marie Antoinette, will be auctioned in Geneva on November 13. The piece, boasting 300 carats of diamonds, is expected to fetch around 2 million Swiss francs (approximately $2.29 million), but experts believe it could sell for much more.
The scandal emerged in the 1780s when Jeanne de la Motte, a noblewoman in financial distress, impersonated the French queen to acquire the necklace without payment. Although the queen was later acquitted in a trial, the incident further fueled public disdain for her, contributing to the unrest that led to the French Revolution and her eventual execution.
Jessica Wyndham, head of magnificent jewelry sales at Sotheby’s, noted that the necklace's noble provenance has generated significant excitement among collectors. "It is likely that some of these diamonds originated from the famous necklace that led to Marie Antoinette's downfall," she stated.
The original necklace, crafted in 1776, saw its diamonds sold off piece by piece on the black market, making it nearly impossible to trace their whereabouts today. However, experts suggest that the age and quality of the diamonds in the upcoming auction piece indicate a possible match.
Resembling a neck scarf that can be worn open or tied, the necklace has a storied history, having previously belonged to the Marquess of Anglesey, with one of his family members wearing it during Queen Elizabeth II's coronation. Wyndham described it as one of the most intriguing pieces Sotheby’s has had in a long time, both for its history and design.