Try On This Diamond and Pearl Tiara Before It Heads to Auction
Sotheby’s created an Instagram filter for the crown, estimated to sell for up to $1.5 million.
One of the most important tiaras to appear on the market in recent years, according to the auction house, the natural pearl and diamond piece is steeped in the history of the House of Savoy.
The House of Savoy is one of the world’s oldest royal dynasties and was Italy’s ruling family from 1861 to 1946.
The tiara dates to the second half of the 19th century, having belonged to two royal collections of Europe.
Sotheby’s said it was likely a wedding gift to Maria Vittoria dal Pozzo for her marriage to Amadeo I of Savoy, Duke of Aoste, later King of Spain (1870-1873), in 1867, after which it stayed in the family for more than 150 years.
The tiara has graduated scroll motifs set with cushion-shaped, circular- and single-cut diamonds framing 11 slightly baroque drop-shaped natural pearls.
It is a crown that also can be worn as a necklace, as seen below.
It’s believed Musy Padre e Figli, court jeweler of Turin and one of Europe’s oldest goldsmiths, with roots dating back to the early 1700s, made the tiara.
The tiara is the highlight of Sotheby’s flagship “Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels” auction in Geneva on May 11, where it’s estimated to sell for between $1 million and $1.5 million.
Ahead of the auction, Sotheby’s created an Instagram filter that lets people try the tiara on virtually and take a picture of themselves wearing it against a 360-degree backdrop that is the Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi in Turin, formerly a royal hunting lodge for the House of Savoy.
Produced in partnership with Poplar Studio, the filter is available through the main @Sothebys Instagram account as well as its dedicated jewelry account, @SothebysJewels.
“Combining two ancient symbols of wealth and status (natural pearls and headpiece), the tiara we have the privilege to present in Geneva in May encapsulates all the pomp, power and presence associated with royal jewels, and with an option to be worn as a necklace, the versatility of this beautiful jewel will undoubtedly make it a very covetable piece for many collectors,” said Benoit Repellin, head of the Sotheby’s Geneva Magnificent Jewels auction.
The crown heads to auction amid “unprecedented global demand for antique tiaras,” Sotheby’s said, fueled by an appreciation for their history and multiple, well-publicized modern royal weddings.
Almost all the tiaras Sotheby’s offered at auction last year found a buyer, the auction house said, with 83 percent topping their highest pre-sale estimates.
The increased interest in tiaras has been particularly notable in Asia, and there are a handful included in the upcoming Sotheby’s Hong Kong Magnificent Jewels auction on April 20.
A natural pearl and diamond tiara from the late 19th century is expected to sell for $246,000-$323,000, a diamond tiara for $123,000-$168,000, and an early 20th century diamond-set scrolling bandeau tiara for $77,500-$97,000.
The Latest
The announcement coincided with its full-year results, with growth driven by its jewelry brands.
Looking ahead, the retailer said it sees “enormous potential” in Roberto Coin’s ability to boost its branded jewelry business.
Jewelry trade show veterans share strategies for engaging buyers, managing your time effectively, and packing the right shoes.
Despite the rising prices, consumers continue to seek out the precious metal.
Despite the absence of “The Allnatt,” Sotheby’s Geneva jewelry auction totaled $34 million, with 90 percent of lots sold.
Lilian Raji gives advice to designers on how to make the most of great publicity opportunities.
The mining company wants to divest its 70 percent holding in the Mothae Diamond Mine in an effort to streamline its portfolio.
Tradeshow risks are real. Get tips to protect yourself before, during and after and gain safety and security awareness for your business.
Why do so many jewelers keep lines that are not selling? Peter Smith thinks the answer lies in these two behavioral principles.
The “Argyle Phoenix” sold for more than $4 million at the auction house’s second jewels sale.
The annual list recognizes young professionals making an impact in jewelry retail.
Owner David Mann is heading into retirement.
While overall sales were sluggish, the retailer said its non-bridal fine jewelry was a popular choice for Valentine’s Day.
The mining giant also wants to offload its platinum business as part of an overhaul designed to “unlock significant value.”
Christie's is selling one of the diamonds, moving forward with its Geneva jewelry auction despite the cyberattack that took down its website.
The ad aims to position platinum jewelry as ideal for everyday wear.
Retailers can customize and print the appraisal brochures from their store.
The move follows a price-drop test run in Q4 and comes with the addition of a “quality assurance card” from GIA for some loose diamonds.
The site has been down since Thursday evening, just ahead of its spring auctions.
The late former U.S. Secretary’s collection went for quadruple the sale’s pre-sale estimate.
Three fifth graders’ winning designs were turned into custom jewelry pieces in time for Mother’s Day.
Kimberly Adams Russell is taking over the role from her father, David Adams, marking the third generation to hold the title.
As a token of womanhood, this necklace depicts when Venus was born from the sea.
The deal gives the retailer control over the distribution of Roberto Coin jewelry in the U.S., Canada, Caribbean, and Central America.
Show your mother some love with a piece of fine jewelry.
The company’s Easton location will remain open.
Brian D. Fleming of Carla Corporation was elected to serve a one-year term in the role.