Kim Kardashian is the New Owner of the Renowned Attallah Cross

The jewel-encrusted cross, famously worn by Princess Diana, was sold for an astonishing £163,800.

Reality television personality Kim Kardashian has acquired ownership of the Attallah Cross. She surpassed four other bids at the recent "Royal & Noble" auction held by Sotheby’s on January 9, 2022. The pre-auction valuation for the amethyst cross ranged from £80,000 to £120,000; however, the mogul purchased it for an astonishing £163,800.

Sotheby’s press release quotes Kristian Sprofforth, head of jewellery: “This piece is audacious in its size, color, and design, guaranteed to make a striking statement, whether pertaining to faith, fashion, or both.”

Sprofforth additionally stated that the auction house is “pleased that this piece has acquired a new lease of life in the possession of another internationally renowned figure.” The Attallah Cross was publicly donned by the late Princess Diana in 1987 at a charity gala for Birthright, an organization dedicated to safeguarding human rights during pregnancy and childbirth.

The Attallah Cross is purported to have been created in the 1920s by court jeweller Gerrard. Notable works include the Cullinan I diamond, positioned atop the Sovereign’s Sceptre, utilized in every coronation since Charles II in 1661, and set to be displayed again at the forthcoming coronation of Charles III in May 2023. Furthermore, the renowned jeweller designed Princess Diana’s sapphire and diamond engagement ring, arguably the most iconic royal engagement ring in contemporary history.

The pendant comprises 11 square-cut amethyst stones grouped in a cross formation, encircled by circular-cut diamonds configured in a flowery design. The dimensions are approximately 5.4 inches by 3.7 inches, with a total diamond weight of approximately 5.25 carats.

The cross, named after Naim Attallah, was purchased in the 1980s. The deceased entrepreneur, a close associate of Princess Diana, often lent the pendant to her for private functions and various engagements. However, this emblematic piece of jewelry will soon regain prominence at events and red carpets following its acquisition by Kim Kardashian.