Shere Khan Diamond Necklace

Published on 10/06/11

Unique, breathtaking, the diamond-adorned, solid gold Shere Khan Necklace, to be auctioned by the Born Free Foundation, will hopefully raise at least £300,000 to help save the wild tiger from extinction. Experts have valued the necklace at over half a million pounds.

The Shere Khan Necklace is a world exclusive: an exquisite, unique, handcrafted piece created by the internationally-acclaimed and award-winning jeweller, Catherine Best.

The equally unique and iconic Joanna Lumley took time out of her schedule before filming the new series of Absolutely Fabulous, to be photographed wearing the Shere Khan Necklace by the legendary John Swannell.

The outstanding result is five evocative portraits by Swannell, beautifully portraying Joanna reflected in an antique mirror. In one pose, a classic black polo-neck contrasts superbly with the intensity of the vibrant jewels. Another, with the impressive weight of the Shere Khan Necklace laid bare on her décolletage, captures Joanna’s mood; full of emotion, wild-willed and passionate, reflecting her energy and personal commitment to the cause.

Speaking at the shoot from the sumptuous surroundings of the Gondoliers’ room at London’s Savoy Hotel, Joanna said, ‘“I feel very much that it’s almost a royal piece. The necklace is so special it can be worn with anything, though I feel a strapless evening gown and long evening gloves would show it to perfection.