Diamonds Are Forever singer Shirley Bassey is to auction part of her extensive and “meaningful” jewelery collection, including a diamond ring given to her by Elton John.
The crown jewels of her collection, which will go on display at Sotheby’s in London later this month before being sold at a charity auction in Paris, will sell for between €270,000 and €320,000 (£232,420 to £275,460). Contains a presumed diamond necklace. The diamond and gold parure by Cartier is estimated to cost between €200,000 and €250,000 (£172,170 – £215,210).
The 87-year-old, who famously sang about diamonds in the 1971 James Bond film starring Sean Connery, said the lyrics “represent what I felt about diamonds then and now and are true to me.” He said that he accepted the offer to sing this song because it resonated with him.
“For me, collecting jewelry is like collecting memories, and this collection is filled with memories,” Bassey said. “Whether you bought it yourself or received it as a gift, every piece has meaning and a story to tell.
“I have a beautiful 1960s vintage Van Cleef & Arpels ring encrusted with white diamonds. It was given to me after I sang at Elton John’s AIDS Gala night and I have worn it many times. I’m also wearing it.
“Or the ruby and diamond heart parure I found in the window of a high-end jewelery store when I stopped in Bangkok on my way to my first concert tour to Australia.
“And perhaps one of the most special pieces in the collection is this emerald parure that I bought myself to commemorate my first Royal Variety Performance in front of the late Queen.”
Bassey said, “As an up-and-coming singer, I became obsessed with jewelry and bought myself my first string of pearls. This was the first piece of jewelry I ever bought.”
Other lots include a yellow diamond ring that could sell for between €165,000 and €200,000 (£142,030 and £172,150); It also includes a set of aquamarines, sapphires, diamonds and gemstones, estimated to sell for between £150 and £150. 60,250).
Highlights of the collection will be on display at Sotheby’s London from May 24th to 29th, and in Paris from October 4th ahead of a live auction at Sotheby’s Paris on October 10th.
The collection is part of Sotheby’s Fine Jewels bi-annual sale, with proceeds going to Bassey’s chosen charities.
