A diamond-studded necklace, believed to be linked to the infamous scandal that contributed to the downfall of Marie Antoinette, sold for a staggering 4.26 million Swiss francs ($4.81 million) at Sotheby's auction in Geneva on November 13. The Georgian-era piece, featuring over 300 carats of diamonds, was initially valued at up to 2 million francs, making its final price more than double expectations.
The auction attracted intense interest, with a bidding war lasting over seven minutes among seven participants, culminating in the sale to an undisclosed female buyer. Andres White Correal, a Sotheby’s jewellery specialist, described the atmosphere as “electric,” highlighting the appeal of historical jewels with rich provenance.
This remarkable necklace is thought to contain diamonds that may have originated from the infamous Diamond Necklace Affair of 1785, where a con artist impersonated Marie Antoinette to acquire a necklace without payment. Although the queen was ultimately exonerated, the scandal tarnished her reputation and fueled public discontent leading to the French Revolution.
Previously owned by the Marquess of Anglesey, the necklace has a storied past, having been worn by family members at significant royal ceremonies, including the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The new owner expressed her joy, stating, “I’m merely the custodian until the next person will come along.”