This sensational theft still makes Cartier experts cry. In 1948, a unique necklace disappeared from the Indian ruler's treasury without a trace. Today, its value is estimated at \$30 million.
The stones from this jewelry have been sought after worldwide for almost 80 years, but the original appears to be lost forever.
In 1926, an incredibly wealthy man, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, approached Cartier's Parisian atelier. He brought with him a treasure trove of precious stones and requested the creation of something that would surpass any other piece of jewelry in the world.
Cartier's jewelers worked tirelessly for almost three years. The result exceeded all expectations. They managed to incorporate:
2,930 diamonds, totaling over 1,000 carats, into a single necklace.
A giant yellow De Beers diamond weighing 234.69 carats (at the time, the seventh largest diamond in the world!).
Seven other rare diamonds weighing between 18 and 73 carats.
A scattering of pure Burmese rubies for contrast.
The Maharaja wore this necklace to the most important receptions, and its brilliance literally made guests' eyes water...
In 1938, the ruler died, and the treasure was inherited by his son. In April 1948, the Patiala Necklace "disappeared" from the state treasury.
Here's what happened next:
- In 1982, the famous yellow De Beers diamond unexpectedly resurfaced at a Sotheby's auction. It was missing its chain and rubies, having been removed from a necklace. Eventually, it was sold for a "modest" \$3.16 million.
-1998, London: Cartier's gemologist expert Eric Nussbaum accidentally walks into a small antique shop and freezes .... In a dusty display case among the junk lies a platinum frame ... the very necklace of Patiala. From it absolutely all 2930 diamonds and rubies were barbarously pulled out.
The original is considered to be lost forever.
And something makes think that the authorities themselves secretly sold the jewelry out of necessity.
stormborns
dailybridgerton
yousharknotpass