Dame Shirley Bassey is known for many things, the voice of the valleys, a music icon with a career spanning over seven decades, and a woman who exudes elegance, glamour, and grace. The Welsh recording artist who grew up in Tiger Bay has had a career that was beyond even her wildest dreams and has seen her travel the globe and achieve countless accolades. While music has been a constant companion for the icon there has been another great love in her life: jewellery. The songstress who sang the iconic James Bond soundtrack Diamonds Are Forever is set to part with some of her personal diamonds at an upcoming auction in Paris which includes legendary items including a diamond ring gifted to her by Sir Elton John.
This is the first time the living legend is auctioning any of her jewellery and not only is it an opportunity to purchase some exquisite pieces, but it is all for an excellent cause with the proceeds going to Dame Shirley’s chosen charities. The collection is estimated to be worth around £2 million.
Shirley Bassey’s Diamonds Unveiled at Sotheby’s
The auction, which will take place in Paris on 10th October, provides fans of Dame Shirley’s diamonds an opportunity to purchase not just an exquisite gem, but a piece of history. “All the pieces are meaningful and have a story to tell, whether I bought them for myself or they were gifted to me" Dame Shirley recently remarked about the showcase which highlights impressive artistry with a rare and unique, sparkling history. One of the stand out pieces is a vintage 1960s Van Cleef & Arpels ring, gifted by Elton John after Shirley Bassey performed at one of his AIDS gala evenings, a piece she cherished and wore on many occasions. Another impressive offering is a ruby and diamond heart parure which she purchased during a stopover in Thailand en route to her first concert in Australia. This auction is an exceptionally rare opportunity to purchase something truly extraordinary.
The auction features over 70 pieces presenting a range of gems including rubies, sapphires, and diamonds, and expects to raise an impressive amount of money for charity. Sotheby’s expect the emerald and diamond necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels to attract bids from £52,000 to £65,000. The auction also includes a diamond necklace, expected to fetch between £232,420 and £275,460, and a Cartier diamond and gold parure, estimated at £215,210. Additionally, a yellow diamond ring is anticipated to fetch £172,150 alongside an aquamarine, sapphire, diamond, and gem set estimated between £51,640 and £60,250.
A Career Marked by Royal Honours and Global Fame
Bassey’s stellar career has gone from strength to strength which is exemplified by the fact she is now in her eighth decade in the spotlight. Her God-given talent, ability to connect with her audience and endless charisma have connected her with people of different generations from all across the globe. Despite its longevity, the singer shows no plans of slowing down stating: “Every step of my career has been about taking that chance, believing in myself, and making that leap. I live to sing and love to perform. Entertaining audiences for over 70 years has been a privilege.”
Dame Shirley Bassey holds an impressive record for recording not one, not two, but three James Bond themes. The chance to do this is seen as a once-in-a-lifetime dream for most recording artists but Dame Shirley did it thrice with "Goldfinger," "Diamonds Are Forever," and "Moonraker". The Welsh singer, 87 was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and was recently appointed a Member of the Order of the Companions of Honour by King Charles III, in recognition of her significant contributions to music. Having been made a Dame in the 1999 Honours List, Bassey remarked that receiving this rare accolade from the King made her more nervous than performing for him. The exclusive title is awarded for services of "conspicuous national importance," and is notably limited to only 65 individuals demonstrating just how rare and unprecedented her talent and accomplishments are.
Diamonds Are Forever
Diamonds Are Forever is undoubtedly one of the most iconic songs of all time and the recording alone, from 1971, secured the singer’s place in music history. Her powerful, faultless voice, paired with the timeless allure of natural diamonds, preserved the song’s status, creating an enduring connection between the legendary British artist and the world of fine jewellery.
Her lifelong passion for diamonds preceded the recording of Diamonds Are Forever, a song she chose to perform because “ it rang true to me and the way I felt about diamonds then and now”.
"Diamonds never lie to me / For when love's gone, they'll lustre on / Diamonds are forever, forever, forever."
Dame Shirley recounts she first fell in love with jewellery when she discovered natural pearls – the first piece of jewellery she ever bought, as an up-and-coming singer. It was the first of many jewellery pieces which the star has collected and curated over the years.
An Impact that extends beyond the world of music
Throughout her seven decades in the public eye, Bassey has created a lasting legacy defined by resilience, talent, and immense commitment to the world of music. She has performed for heads of state, celebrities, and royalty, and her impact on the industry and public contributions remain profound and multifaceted. Her philanthropic efforts have seen her support numerous charities which have primarily been focussed on cancer research and children’s welfare. Dame Shirley wants to ensure children get ample opportunities as evidenced by the Dame Shirley Bassey Scholarship, which finances art students and young music performers.
Dame Shirley Bassey’s legacy will remain an enduring force and will nurture the entertainment industry for many generations to come. To be able to own a piece of that legacy by purchasing one of her exquisite items of jewellery is a great honour for any successful bidder.
