The sale includes 11 pieces, most of which were given to her by her husband, Giovanni Battista Meneghini, during the 1950s and which were bequeathed to a member of her circle after her death 27 years ago. Their appearance now at auction is likely to create considerable interest given their freshness to the market and the fact that they once belonged to one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century.

The Jewellery

The 1950s were Callas’ ‘golden years’ when she was winning worldwide acclaim for her performances at La Scala in Milan and it was then that her husband gave her these wonderful pieces. Whenever she was seen in public, she was always stylishly dressed and adorned with the wonderful jewels from the collection. There are a number of photographs from this period, which capture the spirit of the time and the incredible aura which surrounded Maria.

In a number of the photographs, she is wearing a pair of ruby and diamond earclips (estimated at £8,500-15,000), and often clutching the gold evening bag by Van Cleef & Arpels (estimated at £2,800-5,200). Ruby and diamond jewellery features prominently in this collection. Alongside the earclips, is a stunning ruby and diamond necklace, estimated at £52,000-78,000. Also a beautiful ruby and diamond brooch by Van Cleef & Arpels, estimated at £28,000-45,000 and a bracelet of cushion-shaped rubies and baguette diamonds, estimated at £28,000-45,000.

Emeralds were also a favourite, and Callas often performed wearing a dazzling emerald and diamond necklace (estimated at £17,000-28,000) or the claw-set emerald and diamond ring (the emerald weighing 37.56 carats), which is estimated at £45,000-78,000.

The most expensive piece in the collection is a marquise-shaped diamond ring, weighing 11.7 carats. It is estimated to fetch £68,000-100,000. (Pictures overleaf)

Although there are photographs and recollections from Maria’s closest circle, there is no way of knowing for certain the circumstances in which the jewellery was given – whether bought to celebrate a particular performance, a wedding anniversary or some other significant moment. Either way each piece almost certainly must have had a story to tell.