The carved necklace features five Colombian emeralds, weighing a combined 1,178 carats, on gold and magenta cords. The necklace once belonged to the Iranian ruler Nader Shah.
Shah seized the jewellery after capturing Delhi in 1739 and taking control of the royal treasury of the Mughal Empire (1526-1857).
The emerald necklace entered the Christie’s auction in New York with a pre-sale estimate of $USD2 million; however, it was sold for $USD6.22 million ($AUD9.66 million).
International head of jewellery, Rahul Kadakia, said the historical significance of this necklace couldn’t be understated.
“These jewels represent not only the lapidary mastery and grandeur of Mughal India, but also a rare opportunity to acquire some of the most significant examples ever to come to auction,” he said.
“Tracing the rich legacy of the Mughal dynasty, renowned for its iconic use of emeralds, spinels, and pearls, this collection marks a cultural milestone and sets a new standard for the treasures of this extraordinary era.”
A second emerald necklace (297 carats), accompanied by emeralds, spinel, ruby, and pearls, also thrilled collectors.
This piece had a presale estimate of $USD2 million and was sold for $USD5.55 million ($AUD8.62 million).
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