Paris, France — Dame Shirley Bassey’s illustrious jewelry collection has made headlines after achieving a remarkable feat at a recent auction held in Paris. The collection fetched an astonishing total of €2.2 million (£1.8 million), setting a world record for a single-owner jewelry auction. This milestone event, part of Sotheby’s Fine Jewels biannual sale, took place on October 10 and saw all lots belonging to the legendary singer successfully sold, with proceeds benefiting her chosen charities.
A Glittering Legacy
Dame Shirley Bassey, known for her powerful voice and iconic performances, has been a beloved figure in the music industry for decades. Hailing from Cardiff’s Tiger Bay, she has captivated audiences worldwide, notably for her rendition of “Diamonds Are Forever,” the title track of the 1971 James Bond film featuring Sir Sean Connery.
In her own words, Bassey has expressed a deep connection to the song, stating that the lyrics “rang true” to her. This connection to diamonds extends beyond her music career; it is reflected in her extensive jewelry collection, which she describes as “full of memories.”
Highlights of the Auction
Among the standout pieces in Bassey’s collection was a vintage 1960s diamond ring from Van Cleef & Arpels, featuring brilliant-cut diamonds, which was gifted to her by fellow music legend Sir Elton John. The ring sold for €48,000 (£39,995), exceeding its estimated value of €10,000 to €15,000 by more than three times.
Another highlight was a stunning Van Cleef & Arpels emerald and diamond necklace, which Bassey purchased to commemorate her first Royal Variety Performance in front of Queen Elizabeth II. This exquisite piece achieved a selling price of €174,000 (£144,985), more than double its estimated value of €50,000 to €70,000.
Additionally, a vintage diamond brooch from around 1905 sold for €162,000 (£134,991), nearly five times its estimate of €26,000 to €35,000. These impressive results underscore the enduring appeal and value of Bassey’s jewelry.
A Passion for Jewelry
Ahead of the auction, Dame Shirley shared insights into her lifelong passion for jewelry, revealing that her love for precious gems began in her youth. “I fell in love with jewellery when I first discovered natural pearls as an up-and-coming singer, and I bought myself my first string of pearls — the first piece of jewellery I’d ever bought,” she reflected.
However, her affection quickly evolved into a fascination with diamonds, a passion that preceded her iconic recording of “Diamonds Are Forever.” Bassey stated, “In fact, I accepted to sing the song because it rang true to me and the way I felt about diamonds then and now.”
For Bassey, collecting jewelry is not merely a pursuit of beauty; it is intertwined with personal memories and experiences. “Collecting jewellery for me is like collecting memories, and this collection is full of them,” she explained, emphasizing the sentimental value that each piece holds.
A Trailblazer in Music
Dame Shirley Bassey’s influence extends beyond her jewelry collection. She holds the distinction of being the only singer to have recorded more than one theme for the James Bond franchise. Additionally, she made history as the first Welsh artist to achieve a UK number one single in 1959 with “As I Love You.” Over her illustrious career, Bassey has amassed a remarkable 12 UK top 10 singles and eight UK top 10 albums, solidifying her status as a musical icon.
Her connection to the world of glamour and luxury is evident not only in her music but also in her exquisite taste in jewelry. Bassey’s successful auction has garnered attention, drawing in collectors, fans, and industry insiders eager to celebrate her legacy.
Industry Reactions and Future Implications
The success of Bassey’s auction has sparked conversations about the intersection of celebrity culture and luxury jewelry. Collectors and auction houses alike are taking note of the growing interest in celebrity-owned jewelry, which can command significantly higher prices due to their unique histories and associations with famous personalities.
As the auction market continues to evolve, the record-breaking results from Bassey’s collection may encourage other celebrities to consider similar endeavors, whether through auctioning their possessions for charitable causes or sharing their personal stories connected to treasured items.
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Conclusion
Dame Shirley Bassey’s jewelry auction not only set a world record but also highlighted her remarkable journey as an artist and collector. With €2.2 million raised for charity, the sale represents more than just financial success; it is a testament to the enduring allure of her artistry and the sentimental value embedded in her collection.
As fans and collectors reflect on the auction, Bassey’s contributions to music and her deep-rooted love for jewelry will continue to inspire future generations. In a world where diamonds and memories intertwine, Dame Shirley Bassey remains an unparalleled icon, shining brightly on and off the stage.
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