The Romanov Sapphire, a significant gemstone with ties to Russia's last imperial family, is poised to achieve up to £1.5 million at auction. The 197.80-carat unheated Ceylon sapphire is considered one of the most important surviving jewels associated with the Russian imperial court.
The House of Romanov ruled Russia from 1613 until the February Revolution in 1917. Many of the Crown Jewels were sold by the Soviet government to the West between 1927 and 1936, making extant pieces particularly rare and historically significant.
The sapphire was reportedly worn by Empress Consort of Russia Dowager Maria Feodorovna at the Winter Palace Ball in 1903, an event often cited as the last grand spectacle of imperial Russia. Following its sale, socialite and singer Ganna Walska acquired the jewel in 1927. Walska, known for her lavish lifestyle, amassed a significant jewelry collection which she sold to fund additions to her renowned garden at Lotusland in California.
Sotheby's auction will also feature Cartier's Devonshire black opal tiara, estimated to fetch up to £998,000. This tiara is believed to have been commissioned around the 1937 Coronation of King George VI and gained prominence when Mary Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, wore it as Mistress of the Robes at Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953. The tiara was last publicly seen when director Emerald Fennell wore it on the red carpet for the premiere of the film Wuthering Heights.
Additionally, a sapphire, emerald, and diamond toi et moi ring formerly owned by socialite Catherine, Lady Walston, is expected to sell for up to £454,000.
Andres White Correal, chairman of jewellery for Europe and the Middle East at Sotheby's, noted the enduring collector fascination with jewels that combine exceptional gemstones, craftsmanship, and history. He highlighted that this season's auction includes treasures associated with prominent European imperial and royal families, offering a unique historical perspective.
The Sotheby's royal and noble sale is scheduled to take place live from Geneva on Wednesday, November 11, with a high jewelry sale occurring on the same day. Bidding will be available online via Sothebys.com.