Kim Kardashian purchased a piece of jewelry owned by Prince Diana in a Sotheby’s auction Wednesday with a winning bid of $197,453.
The reality television star and business mogul purchased the diamond-encrusted amethyst Attallah cross pendant at Sotheby’s annual Royal & Noble auction, according to People. The pendant features square-cut amethysts accented by diamonds and weighs 5.25 carats. “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 London’s Head of Jewelry, according to People.
Kim Kardashian acquires bejeweled cross worn by Princess Diana for $197,453. https://t.co/LxL8WVZP4U pic.twitter.com/QgijyXq7Vb
— Forbes (@Forbes) January 19, 2023
Sotheby’s notes the price Kardashian paid was “double its pre-auction estimate.”
“This is a bold piece of jewelry by its size, color and style which cannot fail to make a vibrant statement, whether it be of faith or fashion — or indeed both,” Spofforth said in a statement.
Princess Diana wore the pendant in public a number of times, most notably during Birthright’s 1987 London charity gala in support of pregnancy and childbirth, according to People.(RELATED: Kim Kardashian Now Owns A Piece Of Marilyn Monroe’s Hair)
Kim Kardashian has added another piece to her growing collection of iconic jewelry and memorabilia. https://t.co/17e9QjYwUS
— TMZ (@TMZ) January 19, 2023
At the time, she wore the pendant on a long pearl chain with a purple Victorian gown.
The pendant was designed by court jewelers Garrard in the 1920s and was later purchased by the late Naim Attallah CBE, the former group chief executive of Asprey & Garrard. Attallah and Princess Diana were friends, and he often lent the piece to the former Princess of Wales.
The pendant has not been seen in public since Diana’s death, according to People.