Russian crown jewel from Romanov dynasty could fetch £1.5m at auction

One of the most significant Russian crown jewels could fetch up to £1.5 million at auction.

The Romanov Sapphire, a 197.80-carat unheated Ceylon sapphire, has a documented history that places it among the most important surviving gemstones associated with the Russian imperial court.

It is among several pieces going to auction at Sotheby’s as part of their royal and noble jewels sale.

Relatively few gemstones documented as belonging to the Russian Crown Jewels remain identifiable today, making the Romanov Sapphire one of the most significant jewels from the time of the Romanov dynasty.

among the most important surviving gemstones associated with the Russian Imperial Court (Courtesy of Sotheby’s/PA)

The sapphire was worn by Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna at the Winter Palace Ball of 1903, widely regarded as the last great spectacle of imperial Russia and immortalised in some of the most iconic images of the Romanov court.

Following the Russian revolution, it entered the Soviet government’s dispersal sales and was acquired by opera singer Ganna Walska, before later being acquired by Cartier.

The Romanovs were the last imperial dynasty to rule Russia from 1613 until 1917. Some of their most famous members include Peter the Great and Catherine the Great.

The sale also features Cartier’s Devonshire black opal tiara, which is expected to fetch up to £998,000.

The sale also features Cartier’s Devonshire black opal tiara, which is expected to fetch up to £997,000 (Courtesy of Sotheby’s/PA)

The jewel was likely commissioned in connection with the Coronation of King George VI in 1937 and later achieved particular prominence at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, when Mary Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, wore it in her role as Mistress of the Robes.

Its last public appearance was at the London premiere of the film Wuthering Heights, when the film’s director Emerald Fennell wore it on the red carpet.

Another item for sale is a rare sapphire, emerald and diamond toi et moi ring formerly owned by socialite Catherine, Lady Walston which is expected to sell for up to £454,000.

Andres White Correal, chairman of jewellery Europe and Middle East, said: “The extraordinary success of our Royal & Noble Jewels sales reflects collectors’ enduring fascination with jewels that combine exceptional gemstones, craftsmanship and history.

Another item for sale is a rare sapphire, emerald and diamond toi et moi ring, expected to fetch for up to £453,300 (Courtesy of Sotheby’s/PA)

“This season’s auction is led by rare treasures associated with some of Europe’s most important imperial and royal families, from the Romanovs to the Houses of Orleans and Braganza, each offering a unique window into history.

“We look forward to presenting these exceptional jewels to collectors from around the world this November.”

Sotheby’s royal and noble sale takes place live from the Mandarin Oriental in Geneva on Wednesday November 11 following Sotheby’s high jewellery sale on the same day.

Bidders from all over the world can bid online at Sothebys.com.