The 5.25 carat pendant has been unworn since Princess Diana’s death
Kim Kardashian won the bid to purchase an amethyst and diamond cross
pendant from the 1920s worn by Princess Diana. The bold piece of jewellery
has switched possession from one global name to another.
The
precious stone pendant was put up for auction by Sotheby’s as part of their
Royal and Noble sale which featured various items from royal history.
Attallah Cross worn by Princess Diana
Known as the ‘Attallah Cross’, the piece formerly belonged to
Naim Attallah, a Palestinian-British businessman and writer who purchased it
from Garrard.
“This is a bold piece of jewellery by its size,
colour and style which cannot fail to make a vibrant statement, whether it
be of faith or fashion — or indeed both, we are delighted that this piece
has found a new lease of life within the hands of another globally famous
name,” said Kristian Spofforth, Sotheby’s London’s Head of Jewelry.“This is
a bold piece of jewellery by its size, colour and style which cannot fail to
make a vibrant statement, whether it be of faith or fashion — or indeed
both, we are delighted that this piece has found a new lease of life within
the hands of another globally famous name,” said Kristian Spofforth,
Sotheby’s London’s Head of Jewelry.
“Accompanied by a document by Garrard dated 1991 with a description
of the piece. Unsigned. Estimated total diamond weight approximately 4.25 –
5.25 carats. Largest amethyst measuring approximately 15.6 x 15.5 x 8.1mm.
Amethysts with some surface reaching inclusions and minor wear to facet
edges. The pendant measures approximately 136 x 95mm. Overall good
condition. Total gross weight approximately 45.8 grams,” read Sotheby’s
condition report.
Diana had famously worn the Attallah Cross for an event held to
support of Birthright, a charity which strives to protect human rights
during pregnancy and childbirth. “As good friends of the Princess, Attallah
acquired the cross shortly after her death and it has remained with the
family, unworn, ever since,” Sotheby’s detailed.
Kardashian has
expressed an interest in historic items recently, including Marilyn Monroe’s
iconic dress for the Met Gala.
