Napoleon's Diamond Brooch Heads Sotheby's Royal & Noble Sale
Sotheby's upcoming Royal & Noble Sale in Geneva on November 12 promises a rare treat for collectors. A unique brooch set with old mine-cut diamonds, once owned by Napoleon Bonaparte, will headline the auction. This extraordinary piece is expected to fetch between CHF 120,000 and 200,000 ($150,000 and 250,000).
The brooch, measuring approximately 45mm in diameter, features a stunning oval diamond of over 13 carats at its centre. Surrounding this magnificent stone are nearly 100 old mine-cut diamonds arranged in two concentric rows. This exquisite piece has a fascinating history that dates back to the Napoleonic era. After the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, the brooch was presented to Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm III as a trophy. It remained in the House of Hohenzollern for generations, passing through the hands of Kaiser Wilhelm II and later to his grandson, Prince Louis Ferdinand of Prussia. In recent years, the brooch has been part of a private collection before its anticipated debut at Sotheby's.
The Napoleon Bonaparte brooch is not the only highlight of the sale. A rare light pink diamond ring weighing over 13 carats will also be offered for the first time, with an estimate of CHF 240,000-400,000 ($301,750-502,900). This exceptional piece, known as the 'Rosa Leuchtdiamantring', is one of the few pink diamonds of its size and quality. Additionally, a natural pearl and diamond hair ornament and brooch from a European noble family will be featured, estimated at CHF 340,000-500,000 ($427,500-628,600). These remarkable pieces are sure to captivate bidders and add to the rich tapestry of history that Sotheby's is known for.
