Princess Salimah Aga Khan remains one of the most fascinating jewelry icons of the 20th century. Her collection, built through passion, artistry, and access to the world’s finest maisons, represents a unique blend of European haute joaillerie and Eastern royal heritage.
Born in India and raised with an early love for beauty and art, she later moved to London, where she became a fashion model and TV personality. Her glamorous life took a historic turn when she married Prince Karim Aga Khan IV in 1969, entering a world where craftsmanship, elegance, and cultural sophistication defined her identity.
One of the most extraordinary pieces ever commissioned for a royal is her iconic emerald necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels (1971).
It contains: 745 diamonds totaling 52 carats, 44 engraved 18th-century emeralds weighing 470+ carats, all mounted on yellow gold. What makes the piece legendary is its transformability; it can become a choker, two bracelets, or a clip, reflecting the innovation of VCA.
After her marriage, Princess Salimah grew deeply connected to Eastern art. She commissioned and collected multiple Indian masterpieces, including the famed Moghul “Fish” necklace.
Boucheron, Cartier, and Bulgari
Her European collection includes: Boucheron, Cartier, and many personally designed sets, mainly auctioned in the 19995 Christie’s controversial auction.
After her divorce, Princess Salimah made a bold decision:
She auctioned her multimillion-pound jewelry collection to fund her future philanthropic work.
Despite legal attempts to halt the sale, she prevailed.
The auction included a Bulgari cultured pearl and diamond set, as well as rare gem-set bags and boxes by Cartier, Buccellati, and many more.
The video below showcases all the visuals of her exquisite collection and provides an insight into her personal life.
