Sotheby’s, a leading auction house renowned for its prestigious jewellery auctions, is set to captivate the world once again with its flagship Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels sale.
Among the treasures to be unveiled is one of the largest and most historically significant yellow diamonds ever discovered – the Allnatt.
The spotlight of the auction shines brightly on the Allnatt, a sensational 101.29-carat Fancy Vivid Yellow diamond with a richly saturated golden hue.
Originating from South Africa and likely mined over a century ago, this extraordinary gem is steeped in history and elegance. The Allnatt, estimated at 5.6 M – 6.5 M CHF, is set to make its much-anticipated return to the market after nearly three decades.
Unveiling the Allnatt Yellow Diamond: A Historic Treasure
Named after its first documented owner, Major Alfred Ernest Allnatt, the diamond boasts a storied past. Major Allnatt, a prominent British figure known for his contributions to sports, philanthropy, and the arts, acquired the diamond in the early 1950s.
Under his patronage, the Allnatt was transformed into a breathtaking brooch by the esteemed house of Cartier, showcasing its radiant beauty to the world.
The Allnatt’s Cartier-designed brooch pays homage to the diamond’s magnificence with a floral motif that exudes timeless elegance. Reminiscent of Cartier’s iconic creations of the 1950s, such as the legendary Williamson Pink brooch worn by Queen Elizabeth II, this exquisite piece showcases the masterful craftsmanship and artistic vision synonymous with the renowned jewellery house.
The allure of the Allnatt extends beyond its exquisite craftsmanship and historical provenance. The diamond has graced prestigious exhibitions, including ‘The Splendor of Diamonds’ at the Smithsonian Museum of National History in 2003.
Recognized as one of the most celebrated diamonds, the Allnatt continues to mesmerize audiences with its unparalleled beauty and allure.
The Sotheby’s Geneva Magnificent Jewels Sale: A Celebration of Luxury
Scheduled to take place on 14th May at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Sotheby’s Geneva biannual flagship Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels Live Sale promises to be a grand affair.
Alongside the Allnatt, the auction will feature a dazzling array of exquisite jewels, each telling a story of opulence and refinement.
- Lot 612: Exquisite Unmounted Diamond Estimated at 1,460,000 CHF – 2,370,000 CHF, this 37.61-carat diamond boasts exceptional purity and clarity, making it a coveted treasure for discerning collectors.
- Lot 613: Magnificent Burmese Sapphires Featuring a pair of Burmese sapphires weighing 14.66 and 13.94 carats respectively, this lot offers a rare opportunity to acquire top-quality gems of significant size and beauty.
- Lot 619: Iconic Flamingo Brooch A recreation of Cartier’s iconic flamingo brooch, this jewel, estimated at 100,000 CHF – 150,000 CHF, is a testament to Cartier’s enduring legacy of design excellence.
- Lot 615: Exquisite Panthère Brooch Part of Cartier’s legendary Panthère range, this rare brooch boasts exquisite craftsmanship and timeless allure, making it a coveted piece for collectors.
- Lot 617: Enchanting Lemur Brooch Designed as a ring-tailed lemur, this charming brooch is a testament to Cartier’s creativity and mastery of design, offering a whimsical addition to any jewellery collection.
Exploring Additional Offerings: Luxury Beyond Jewellery
In addition to the Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels Sale, Sotheby’s presents a diverse range of luxury auctions, including Important Watches, Handbags and Accessories, and an impressive collection of Gold Boxes and Fabergé.
Completing the lineup of luxury sales is the exceptional online auction of a unique black V4Rs Colnago bike with a gold leaf finish, catering to discerning enthusiasts of fine craftsmanship and design.
As Sotheby’s prepares to unveil its Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels Sale, enthusiasts and collectors alike are poised to embark on a journey through a world of opulence, elegance, and unparalleled beauty.
From the historic allure of the Allnatt diamond to the exquisite craftsmanship of Cartier and other renowned jewellers, the auction promises to be a celebration of luxury in its purest form.
Images: Sotheby’s


