Kim Kardashian has always had a flair for showcasing stunning moments from the past alongside the present. With the rising popularity of vintage and heirloom pieces in the luxury world, what better way to embrace this trend than by bringing attention to a remarkable archival item? At the LACMA Art + Film Gala on November 2 in Los Angeles, she did exactly that. The millionaire and SKIMS founder artfully showcased one of her significant fashion investments, making it the centerpiece of her elegant outfit for the evening. Kim dazzled in a pristine white Gucci couture gown, complemented by a flowing white trench coat. The deep neckline of her dress was perfectly accented by the stunning Attallah Cross necklace, adorned with jewels.
And Kim’s neck isn’t the first to showcase the beauty of the Attallah Cross. This striking piece first graced the late Princess of Wales, Diana back in October 1987 during a charity ball in London for Birthright, an organization focused on protecting rights during pregnancy and childbirth. You might be wondering how Kim got her hands on such an exclusive piece. She acquired it at a 2023 Sotheby’s auction, where it fetched a jaw-dropping price of $298,682, or around INR 2,51,23,950.
In its two noteworthy public appearances, this unique amethyst crucifix has taken center stage in very different contexts. Kim’s use of the pendant added a dramatic flair to her all-white look, creating a striking contrast, while for Princess Diana, the cross seamlessly matched her tone. Diana’s style for the night echoed a medieval theme, beautifully embodied in her black and burgundy velveteen Catherine Walker gown, complete with a high ruffled neckline. The Attallah Cross adorned her with elegance, perfectly complementing her attire yet undeniably standing out.
This extraordinary piece has a rich history of its own. Created in 1920 by court jewelers Garrard, it was initially purchased by Naim Attallah, a close friend of late Princess Diana. He later loaned it to her, and it has an emotional connection to his family. Ramsay Attallah, Naim’s son, shared his memories of the piece, reminiscing, “When I was growing up, we’d always have it on the table for Christmas lunch, but it was never worn by anyone other than Diana, and it hasn’t been seen in public since she died,” as reported by Vogue India.
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Adorned with 11 square-cut amethysts, lined with gold and silver, and embellished with sparkling circular-cut diamonds, the Attallah Cross is as captivating and conversation-worthy today as it was over four decades ago.
