If you’re a lover of antique jewellery, sit back and read the story of the Beau Sancy diamond, a jewel that began 400-year journey through European royalty.
As soon her eyes met with the sparkling 34.98ct Beau Sancy diamond, Marie de Médicis, wife of the French king Henri IV, was determined to have it, begging her husband to gift it to her.
Her wish for the rare diamond came true, as in 1610, a day after her coronation the stunning pear-shaped gem was handed to her – however, sadly it didn’t come without a price. A day after receiving the gem, King Henri was assassinated, leaving behind his wife and six children under the age of nine.
From here, the Beau Sancy diamond began its 400-year journey through European royal history as it passed between monarchs in France, England, the Dutch Republic and Prussia.
Originally mined in India near Golconda, the rose cut diamond has an extraordinary past of being worn in the crowns of different royalty. It’s one of the world’s most famous and oldest historically significant gems.
Originally mined in India near Golconda, the diamond has previously been owned by various film stars and billionaires.
“It’s extremely rare for a diamond as important as the Beau Sancy to come on the market, so we were surprised to see it auctioned by Sotheby’s back in 2012.
The 34.98ct stone sold for a staggering £5.3 million – more than double the estimated top price, which is likely to be due to its romantic and royal history.
Of immaculate provenance, the diamond is featured in a multitude of history books about famous stones and has never been out of royal hands. Though to this day, the winning bidder remains anonymous, so it’s unknown whether this is still the case.”
maxwell stone, creative director, steven stone
After being worn at Marie de Medici’s coronation, the diamond was pawned by Mary Stuart to finance the fight by her brother, the future Charles II, for the English throne, following the English Civil War. Following this, it was the centrepiece in the crown of the first king of Prussia, sold by the Royal House of Prussia, the descendants of those who once ruled Prussia.
In 2012, at a Sotheby’s auction in Geneva, the Beau Sancy became the oldest diamond ever to go under the hammer, selling for eight million francs (£5.3m). It was more than double the estimated top price, however the winning bidder chose to remain anonymous, meaning nobody is certain who owns the gem now, and whether they’re Royalty or not.
If you’re looking for jewellery to rival royalty, our team can design bespoke creations, tailored to you. From engagement rings and wedding rings to necklaces and pendants, your options are endless.
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