Kim Kardashian, known for her affinity for fashion history, has once again showcased a legendary piece. Over the years, she has worn iconic items from Marilyn Monroe, Janet Jackson, and Jackie Kennedy. Her collection also boasts museum-worthy artifacts like Elizabeth Taylor’s diamond and jade bracelet. In 2022, she acquired Michael Jackson’s white fedora from the “Smooth Criminal” music video for her daughter North's Halloween costume.
On Saturday, Kardashian made headlines at the LACMA Art+Film Gala in Los Angeles by debuting a new addition to her collection: a diamond-encrusted cross pendant famously worn by Princess Diana. This marked the first public appearance of the necklace since Diana’s passing in 1997.
The pendant, measuring 5.4 inches by 3.7 inches and set with 5.25 carats of diamonds, was crafted by the British jeweler Garrard in the early 20th century. In the 1980s, it was purchased by the late Palestinian-British businessman Naim Attallah, who lent it to Diana several times. One of its most memorable outings was in 1987 when Diana paired it with a deep maroon velvet gown by Catherine Walker for a charity event supporting Birthright, an organization dedicated to protecting human rights during pregnancy and childbirth.
Kardashian purchased the piece for £163,800 (approximately $212,000) during the final moments of a Sotheby’s auction in January 2023. Her red carpet appearance marked its first public wearing since Diana’s iconic look. Kardashian styled the necklace with a significantly shortened pearl chain, layering it with a six-strand pearl choker, adding a pop of color to her otherwise all-white outfit.
While Princess Diana had matched the cross pendant with a regal purple gown, Kardashian chose to highlight it against a plunging neckline, sparking mixed reactions online. Some critics argued that the deep neckline felt out of place with the religious symbol, while others expressed concerns about Kardashian accessing such historical relics. “Why are we still giving her precious heirlooms like Diana’s necklace after the Marilyn dress incident?” one Instagram user commented, referring to the controversy over Kardashian wearing Monroe's dress at the 2022 Met Gala. (Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! later denied claims that the dress had been damaged.)
It remains uncertain whether Kardashian will wear the cross pendant again or add it to her extensive private collection. At the time of purchase, Kristian Spofforth, head of jewelry at Sotheby’s, expressed enthusiasm about its new ownership. He described it as a “bold piece of jewelry,” noting its size, color, and style as features that make a powerful statement, whether of faith or fashion.
With her latest acquisition, Kardashian continues to make waves in the world of high fashion, blending iconic historical pieces with her own modern twist.
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