Kim Kardashian Gives Princess Diana’s Famed Cross Necklace Its First Public Outing

Kim Kardashian, known for her penchant for fashion history, showcased another significant cultural artifact at the LACMA Art+Film Gala in Los Angeles on Saturday: a diamond-lined cross pendant once beloved by Princess Diana.

Kardashian acquired the necklace for £163,800 (approximately $212,000) in January 2023 during the final moments of a Sotheby’s auction. Her red carpet appearance marked the first public display of the piece since Diana’s passing in 1997.

This remarkable necklace, crafted by Garrard, the British court jewelers, in the early 20th century, features approximately 5.25 carats of diamonds and measures 5.4 inches by 3.7 inches. Originally purchased in the 1980s by the late Palestinian-British businessman Naim Attallah, the necklace was lent to Diana multiple times, including for a notable charity gala in 1987 that supported Birthright, an organization dedicated to protecting human rights during pregnancy and childbirth. At that event, Diana paired the striking piece with a matching maroon velvet gown designed by Catherine Walker.

For her debut, Kardashian chose to style the necklace differently, significantly shortening the pearl chain and pairing it with a stack of other jewels, including a six-strand pearl choker. Rather than coordinating her outfit with the necklace’s amethyst hue, she used it as a bold accent against her otherwise all-white ensemble. However, the deep plunge of her gown’s neckline alongside the necklace’s historical significance sparked debate online. Some commentators felt that the daring cut clashed with the religious symbolism of the cross, while others expressed concern over Kardashian’s ability to wear such heirlooms, particularly in light of past controversies regarding the preservation of historical garments. One Instagram commenter remarked, “Why are we still giving this woman precious heirlooms like Diana’s necklace after she broke Marilyn’s dress?”

As for the future of the pendant, it remains unclear whether Kardashian will continue to wear it or if it will be added to her extensive collection. When she purchased the piece, Kristian Spofforth, Sotheby’s head of jewelry in London, expressed enthusiasm for its new ownership. “This is a bold piece of jewelry by its size, color, and style which cannot fail to make a vibrant statement, whether it be of faith or fashion – or indeed both,” he stated in a press release. “We are delighted that this piece has found a new lease of life within the hands of another globally famous name.”