Diamond tiara, last quarter  19th century. Photo Sotheby's

Designed as a graduated row of tiered dart motifs, set with circular-cut, cushion- and pear-shaped diamonds, inner circumference approximately 235mm, fitted case, formerly a necklace/tiara and converted to sole use as a tiara in the early 20th century. ESTIMATE 30,000-50,000 GBP. Lot Sold: 44,450 GBP

NOTE: The popularity of the tiara has fluctuated throughout history but has never diminished. Styles have changed dramatically throughout time, the tiara constantly evolving and answering to the demands of fashion. One element of the tiara that has never faded are its firm links and undertones of royalty, elegance and splendour. Within recent history the tiara has gone through something of a revival from Royal weddings and coronations, to Hollywood and the catwalks of today.

Sotheby's. Fine Jewels. Londres | 14 Dec 2011 www.sothebys.com