Historic Marie Antoinette Pink Diamond Set for Auction After Years

In a remarkable turn of events, a stunning 10.38-carat pink diamond once owned by Marie Antoinette's daughter is set to re-emerge from obscurity at Christie's Magnificent Jewels auction in Geneva, slated for June 2025. This elegant kite-shaped diamond, crafted into a ring by the exclusive jeweler JAR, has been hidden from public view since its previous auction in 1996, when it was sold by an anonymous member of European royalty. The jewel's illustrious history intertwines with the tragic narrative of France's last queen, who is remembered for her opulence and tragic downfall during the French Revolution.

Marie Antoinette, the last Queen of France before the revolution, was renowned for her extravagant lifestyle and exquisite taste in jewelry. Her collection, which she entrusted to her eldest daughter, Marie-Thérèse, after fleeing Paris in 1791, included numerous pieces that reflected her royal status. While the exact provenance of the pink diamond remains debated, historical records indicate that it was eventually passed down to Duchess Marie-Thérèse de Chambord and later mentioned in the will of Queen Maria Theresa of Bavaria, where it was described as 'a pink solitaire diamond from Aunt Chambord'.

The diamond, believed to be sourced from the Golconda region of India, is noted for its unique color, exhibiting soft shades of purple and pink from various angles. According to Rahul Kadakia, head of jewelry at Christie's International, the piece has been transformed into an exquisite ring by JAR, combining rock and roll aesthetics with regal elegance. Kadakia stated, 'It has everything you could want in a piece of jewelry.' The diamond's reappearance is not just a significant event for jewelry collectors but also a poignant reminder of a bygone era marked by luxury and tragedy.

The upcoming auction will also feature other remarkable items, such as the Blue Belle necklace, which boasts one of the rarest sapphires in the world, and a Mughal carved emerald necklace associated with Nader Shah, the founder of the Afsharid dynasty. As interest in historical jewelry continues to rise, the sale of the pink diamond presents a unique opportunity for collectors and historians alike to acquire a piece of royal history, long hidden from view. The auction is expected to draw significant attention from around the globe, underscoring the diamond's enduring legacy and the fascination it holds for those interested in the intricate tapestry of history and luxury.

This auction not only marks the return of a significant historical artifact but also serves as a testament to the enduring allure of royal jewelry, which continues to captivate collectors and historians. The implications of this sale extend beyond the financial realm, as it rekindles interest in the rich history of France's monarchy and the intricate stories woven into each piece of jewelry. As such, the auction of the pink diamond is poised to become a pivotal moment in the world of high-end jewelry, providing insights into the past while shaping the future of collecting.