Diamond, Imitation Pearl and Paste Necklace

Fine Jewels and Jewels for the Collector, including Jewels from the collection of Dame Barbara Cartland, D.B.E., D.St.J, Lot 469, Sotheby's London, Thursday 22nd June 1995,

Dame Barbara Cartland (1901–2000) was one of the most prolific and recognisable writers of the 20th century, famed not only for her astonishing literary output of over 700 novels which were translated into more than 30 languages but also for her flamboyant style and unwavering belief in romance, beauty, and compassion. Her writing career began in 1925 with the publication of Jig-saw, and over the following decades she became synonymous with the modern romantic novel garnering millions of readers around the world.

Beyond her literary achievements, Dame Barbara devoted much of her life to philanthropy, supporting numerous causes including St John Ambulance, the RSPCA, and campaigns to improve the welfare of the elderly and the poor. In recognition of her contributions to British culture and charitable work, she was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1991.

In 1995 she sold a collection of jewellery at Sotheby's, including this necklace and said “My jewellery has bought me a great deal of happiness and love...I am sure it will bring the same to anyone who wears it."