Remarkable 10-Carat Pink Diamond Linked to Marie Antoinette Set for Exhibition and Auction

In the glamorous world of fine jewelry, one exquisite stone is capturing widespread attention. A magnificent 10-carat pink diamond is set to be displayed at Christie’s Auction House in New York City, where it will also be auctioned. This rare gem, known as the Marie-Thérèse Pink Diamond, embodies a rich history intertwined with royal lineage.

A Jewel Steeped in History

The Marie-Thérèse Pink Diamond is not just striking in appearance; its kite-shaped fancy purple-pink form dates back to the mid-18th century. According to historical accounts, this stunning diamond had royal connections that further amplify its allure.

Royal Legacy

As the story goes, Queen Marie Antoinette, a figure renowned for her opulent tastes, entrusted her most prized jewels to her loyal coiffeur in 1791. This occurred on the eve of her attempted escape from Paris. She held hopes of reclaiming these treasures later in life. After the queen’s tragic demise, the jewels, including the pink diamond, found their way into the possession of Antoinette’s only surviving child, Duchess Marie Thérèse de Angoulême.

Interesting Ownership Journey

Centuries later, the diamond reappeared in the will of Queen Marie Theresa of Bavaria. She referred to it as “a pink solitaire diamond from Aunt Chambord.” This mention underscores the stone’s significant journey through royal hands.

Recent Appearance

The jewel resurfaced at an auction in Geneva in 1996, presented by a member of a European royal family. Remarkably, the diamond had remained out of public gaze until its current exhibition. Additionally, renowned Parisian jeweler Joel Arthur Rosenthal reimagined the diamond with a modern setting, breathing new life into this historic piece.

Market Expectations

The diamond is projected to fetch between $3,000,000 and $5,000,000 at auction. This anticipated sale price reflects both the rarity of the gemstone and its illustrious background.

Other Featured Jewels

A sapphire and diamond necklace known as “The Blue Belle” is also poised to lead the auction, with estimates ranging from $8,000,000 to $12,000,000. This striking necklace boasts 392.52 carats of Sri Lankan sapphires, discovered in 1926. Historical records reveal it was intended as a gift for Queen Elizabeth during King George VI’s coronation.

Expert Insights

Rahul Kadakia, the international head of jewelry at Christie’s, praised The Blue Belle as a “gem of exceptional size, color, and clarity” that stands as an extraordinary rarity in the market today. He stated that this remarkable stone deserves a place among the most prestigious colored gemstones available.

A Piece with a Distinguished Past

Although the piece never entered the royal collection, it passed through various distinguished owners, each contributing to its storied history. Kadakia expressed delight in presenting such a magnificent selection of jewels to clients and collectors, encapsulating the grandeur associated with these rare finds.

Public Display and Auction Details

The collection featuring the Marie-Thérèse Pink Diamond and other exquisite pieces will be on public display free of charge from June 12 through June 16. Following the exhibit, the live auction will take place on June 17, presenting a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike to acquire these stunning pieces.

Your Chance to Witness Luxury

Attending this event offers a unique glimpse into a world of luxury, history, and artistry. Not only will attendees marvel at the exquisite jewelry, but they also gain insight into the fascinating stories that accompany these historical pieces. The Marie-Thérèse Pink Diamond stands as a luminous testament to the enduring allure of royal jewelry.