A diamond coveted by kings, queens and princes for centuries, used to reinforce alliances between nations and pawned to pay off royal debts sold for 9 million Swiss francs (€7.4 million) at Sotheby’s in Geneva on Tuesday night.
The auction house called the Beau Sancy diamond “one of the most important historic diamonds ever to come to auction”, reflecting its role in the fluctuating fortunes of Europe’s royal families for more than 400 years.
“The legendary Beau Sancy is a truly magical stone that has entranced generations of royal owners and continues to exert a powerful influence over all who see it,” said David Bennett, Sotheby’s chairman of jewellery in Europe and the Middle East, in a statement. “Its supreme historical importance was reflected tonight in the strength of the bidding and the remarkable result realised.”
The stone, a 35-carat modified “pear double rose cut” diamond belonging to Georg Friedrich, Prince of Prussia, head of the former ruling dynasty of Germany, had been expected to fetch up to $4m. – (Reuters)