In 1930, Italian bookseller and scholar Tammaro de Marinis gifted Maria José of Savoy a ruby-and-diamond ring for her marriage to Italy’s Crown Prince Umberto. Maria José eventually became the queen of Italy in 1946; but it was unfortunately a short-lived title because, 27 days later, the Italian electorate abolished the monarchy. Fast-forward nearly 70 years and Sotheby’s Geneva is auctioning the Queen Maria-José Ruby Ring in its Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels sale on November 11, giving buyers the rare chance to purchase jewelry from Italy’s last queen.
Some links on this website are eBay affiliate links.
The 8.48-carat Burmese ruby’s dark-red hue is classified as “pigeon’s blood,” the most sought-after color for a ruby. Adding to its allure is its incomparable size. Any Burmese rubies over five carats are considered truly exceptional, and this one is expected to fetch between $6 million and $9 million.
An Incomparable Ruby from Italy’s Last Queen
