Dame Nellie Melba's Cartier Sautoir to Be Auctioned at Bonhams London

On 11 June 2026, Bonhams will hold an auction in London featuring a Cartier Belle Époque sautoir adorned with seed pearls and diamonds, originally owned by the renowned opera singer Dame Nellie Melba (1861-1931). Crafted around 1910, this exquisite piece showcases links of seed pearls interspersed with scroll and floral spacers, embellished with old brilliant, old single, and rose-cut diamonds. It culminates in a pierced circular pendant displaying a floral design. Bearing the Cartier Paris signature, it is valued between £60,000 and £80,000. Jean Ghika, Bonhams Global Head of Jewellery, emphasized the piece's embodiment of Belle Époque sophistication and Cartier's innovative use of platinum.