Marie Antoinette is a known figure, as the Queen of France; however have you ever pondered her jewelry’s stories? Recently discovered a captivating gem that piqued my interest. The Marie Antoinette necklace, at the Smithsonian. This exquisite vintage jewel holds a tale steeped in mystery, scandal and royal intrigue.
This article will guide you on an adventure delving, into the past of this necklace. Examining its detailed craftsmanship and tracing its path to the prestigious Smithsonian Institution while uncovering the significance it holds dear to many hearts, along the way. Hopefully by the conclusion of this narrative, on the significance of this piece of jewelry transcends its appeal and delves into a profound glimpse, into a remarkable chapter of history.
The tale of the Smithsonian Marie Antoinette necklace begins back in 1772 when two jewelers, from Paris named Charles Augustus Boehmer and Paul Bassenge set out to design a piece of jewelry that would befit royalty’s stature perfectly. Their target recipient was none than the monarch at the time. Louis XV. Who had a reputation, for pampering his lover Madame du Barry with extravagant presents.
The necklace they crafted was absolutely stunning to see with 647 diamonds totaling 2 800 carats and a centerpiece adorned with 17 diamonds the size of pigeon eggs! It wasn’t an accessory but a masterpiece that took years to create.
Connection to Marie Antoinette
Things take a turn here as the necklace reached completion just as King Louis XV breathed his last and his grandson Louis XVI ascended the throne alongside his queen consort Marie Antoinette of France. A choice, in the eyes of the jewelers, for the exquisite piece.
Here’s the twist though. Marie Antoinette declined the necklace because she thought it was overly extravagant, for her liking. Some speculate that she rejected it because it was initially intended for Madame du Barry whom she wasn’t fond of. Others suggest that she may have been concerned about the nations situation. Regardless of the motive, behind her choice to decline the necklace had ramifications.
The Diamond Necklace Affair
This is the moment when Jeanne de la Motte makes her debut, in our tale as a trickster who spotted a chance in the necklace situation back, in 1784 when she devised a scheme that later earned the moniker “The Diamond Necklace Affair.”
De la Motte managed to persuade Cardinal de Rohan to believe that she could assist him in regaining the favor of Queen Marie Antoinette who was displeased, with him, at the time. She fabricated letters purportedly from the queen requesting the cardinal to purchase the necklace on her behalf. The cardinal completely fell for the scheme without a thought.
The plan fell apart when the jewelers didn’t get paid and decided to approach the queen of going through the usual channels first. Marie Antoinette was taken aback by the situation as she had no knowledge of it. The scandal blew up rapidly. Led to the arrest of everyone implicated – except, for de la Motte’s spouse who had escaped to London with the diamonds.
The consequences were severe, for Marie Antoinette in particular. Despite her innocence, in the matter; her image never fully recovered after that incident occurred. The scandal further solidified the public’s view of her as a spender. Only added to the mounting dissatisfaction that eventually sparked the French Revolution.
Description and Design of the Necklace
The Marie Antoinette necklace displayed at the Smithsonian is an example of jewelry artistry, from the 18th century era. It is commonly linked with the French Queen; however it was initially ordered by King Louis XV for his Madame du Barry. Let’s delve deeper into this jewelry piece.
Gemstone details
The necklace sparkles with an array of diamonds that include 647 stones totaling 2,800 carats in weight. The centerpiece of the necklace boasts 17 diamonds that are as large, as a pigeons egg each. These larger stones are pear shaped cut to add a touch of sparkle and sophistication.
The little diamonds, in the necklace are shaped round to reflect light from all directions attractively. The mix of pear shaped and round cut diamonds gives the necklace a look that’s truly mesmerizing.
It is interesting to mention that back, in the era of Marie Antoinette’s reign the value of pearls surpassed that of diamonds because of their scarcity factor at that time period. In this necklace there are no pearls incorporated; however other pieces of jewelry linked with the Queen of France frequently showcased pearls as part of her distinctive fashion sense.
Craftsmanship and setting
The exquisite necklace was handcrafted by two jewelers from Paris. Charles August Boehmer and Paul Bassenge who were celebrated for their skills and dedication to their craft that included spending years perfecting each piece of jewelry they created together with this particular necklace taking a dedicated two years to complete.
The necklaces design is just as stunning, as its gemstones, with a three link style that lends it a flowing look. Countless pendants embellish this garland feature to elevate both grandeur and intricacy of this piece of jewelry.
The necklaces craftsmanship is truly remarkable as it was valued at 2 million livres back, in the day. Roughly equivalent to $15 million, in today’s money! This appraisal truly highlights the skill and artistry poured into crafting this piece.
Unique features
The historical importance of the Smithsonian Marie Antoinette necklace lies in its connection, to the Affair of the Diamond Necklace “despite not being owned by Marie Antoinette herself.
Historian Thomas Carlyle poetically characterized the necklaces design as a display of seventeen diamonds resembling large filbert nuts. The intricate arrangement includes a three tiered festoon, with an assortment of pendants in pear shapes and various star shaped or amorphous clusters surrounding it like a crown fit, for a queen of diamonds.
The necklace also has a tie, to the Golconda mines, in India known for yielding exceptionally pure and stunning diamonds over the years enhancing both its historical and gemological importance.
In summary the Marie Antoinette necklace, from the Smithsonian is more than an accessory – it represents the craftsmanship of artisans from the 18th century and serves as a connection to a turbulent era, in French history. Its detailed craftsmanship, top notch gemstones and historical importance combine to make it an exceptional and one of a kind heirloom.
The Necklace's Journey to the Smithsonian
The Smithsonian Marie Antoinette necklaces history leading to its location is a tale filled with intrigue and historical importance. It may not have a link, to the Queen of France herself; however its narrative is closely linked to royal gems that eventually made their way to the esteemed halls of the Smithsonian Institution.
Acquisition by the Smithsonian
In 1964 Eleanor Barzin donated a pair of diamond earrings, to the Smithsonian that were believed to have belonged to Marie Antoinette the Queen of France; These earrings have a history as they were believed to be originally, from either India or Brazil and later set in the Queens earrings. The diamonds history involves being owned by Empress Eugenie. Napoleon IIIs wife. And the Russian royal family before Pierre Cartier obtained them in 1928.
These earrings may not be the necklace, in question; however they symbolize the Smithsonians expanding assortment of jewels with value. The institutions renown for safeguard ing such treasures was solidified back, in 1958 when Harry Winston generously gifted the Hope Diamond—a crowd puller.
Preservation efforts
The Smithsonian Institution is dedicated to safeguard its array of artifacts, with meticulous attention to detail and care in preservation practices. For example the renowned Hope Diamond. A treasure within their assortment. Has been removed from the premises on only four occasions following its donation to the institution. Every instance of relocation was undertaken with a purpose in mind; be it, for showcasing at exhibitions or undergoing restoration procedures.
The Hope Diamond underwent evaluation, by a Gemological Institute of America team in 1988 at the Smithsonian using methods to demonstrate the museums dedication to research and preservation of its artifacts, like pieces related to Marie Antoinette.
Current display
Today at the National Museum of Natural History’s Gem Gallery you can see the diamond earrings linked to Marie Antoinette displayed for visitors to admire and discover their significance with the Queen of France and other notable figures, from the past.
Although the necklace linked to the “Affair of the Diamond Necklace” isn’t, in the Smithsonian’s collection there are items that shed light on Marie Antoinette and the turbulent French history during her time. These jewels at the Smithsonian give us a link, to this captivating figure and the significant events of her life.
The assortment, at the museum showcases artifacts linked to Marie Antoinette. Illustrates how objects hold narratives that link us to history. By preserving and presenting these valuables with care and consideration the Smithsonian guarantees that they will engage and enlighten visitors for years to come.
Significance and Legacy of the Necklace
The Marie Antoinette necklace, at the Smithsonian carries importance that goes beyond being just a valuable piece of jewelry; it influenced public perception significantly during a turbulent era in French history known as the “Affair of the Diamond Necklace” which had significant repercussions, for Queen Marie Antoinette of France.
The controversy involving the necklace played a role, in undermining the Bourbon monarchy’s credibility in the eyes of the population just before the French Revolution unfolded four years later – serving as a pivotal factor fueling the discontent among the people at that time. While Marie Antoinette was not personally implicated in this event’ her public image took a blow. This incident further solidified the perception of her, as an detached queen who prioritized luxury over her subjects well-being.
Following the scandals aftermath Marie Antoinette’s presence in public dwindled. She found herself unable to speak out confronting the rising wave of disapproval. Her seclusion deepened the divide, between the royals and the populace adding fuel to the environment that set the stage for the French Revolution.
Cultural impact
The Smithsonian Marie Antoinette necklace has left a widespread influence due, to the scandal attached to it over time. It was seen as a representation of the opulence and dishonesty believed to be prevalent in the monarchy, during that era which fueled sentiments and convictions.
After the scandal erupted and stirred up controversy surrounding the Queens actions there was a surge, in literature that portrayed her in a light. Rumors and disrespectful pamphlets spread quickly fuel as for the growing unrest that would later lead to revolution. These writings depicted Marie Antoinette as a target for blame, in the narrative of the revolutions unfolding events.
Marie Antoinette is still linked to luxury and playfulness today because of her jewelry collection which has created an example of how public opinion can distort reputations. The necklace scandal acts as a lesson, on how past incidents influence our views of figures over time.
Influence on jewelry design
The creation of the Smithsonian Marie Antoinette necklace was never fully realized as planned; however its design has significantly impacted the art of jewelry making over time. With its layout of hundreds of diamonds arranged in a pattern the necklace highlighted the apex of 18th century jewelry craftsmanship.
The controversy involving the necklace also influenced the jewelry trends during that era in a way. As people started disapproving of the lavishness linked with the royal family. Became more inclined, towards understated designs. This shift mirrored the increasing yearning for fairness and disdain for opulence prevalent, during the era.
Ultimately the Marie Antoinette necklace, at the Smithsonian represents more than an accessory; it signifies a crucial chapter in French history and reflects the intricate interplay of authority and public image perception. Its enduring allure captivates historians and jewelry aficionados alike while captivating the public consciousness as a testament, to the enduring influence of an object that echoes across time.
Conclusion
The Marie Antoinette necklace displayed at the Smithsonian serves as a symbol of how jewelry can influence events and stories through its detailed craftsmanship and association with a notorious scandal, from the French monarchy’s past that has solidified its significance in history and culture alike. This remarkable accessory plays a role in shaping our comprehension of the circumstances preceding the French Revolution by providing a connection to a period, in history.
The necklaces rich history and exquisite craftsmanship still mesmerize people today with its charm and quality craftsmanship, on display at the Smithsonian Museum. A testament to the timeless appeal of jewelry and its storytelling ability, throughout the ages. Bystanders gazing at this necklace aren’t just appreciating its beauty; they’re connecting with a piece of history that has influenced our views on authority and the decline of a royal dynasty.
FAQs
Most of Marie Antoinette’s jewelry is now owned by private collectors. However, a pair of her earrings can be viewed at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C., showcasing some of her remaining precious gems.
Marie Antoinette’s diamond bracelets, which contain 112 diamonds ranging from one to 4.5 carats and are set in silver and gold, were originally purchased for 250,000 livres, equivalent to about USD 4.60 million in today’s currency. These bracelets were later auctioned for USD 8.20 million.
Yes, the necklace depicted in ‘Lupin’ is inspired by a real necklace. Historian Evelyne Lever, who has written extensively on the subject, refers to it as an “extraordinary piece of jewelry” consisting of 647 diamonds totaling 2,840 carats.
One of the most remarkable pieces of Marie Antoinette’s jewelry collection was a large, drop-shaped natural pearl pendant. This pendant fetched more than USD 36.00 million at a rare auction of her jewelry in 2018.
