Famous Arab Singer's Pearl Necklace to be Sold

Dubai • A necklace presented to legendary Arab singer Um Kulthum by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the late UAE president, is expected to fetch anything from $80,000 to $120,000 when it is put up for auction by Christie’s at the ‘Contemporary Jewels and Watches’ sale in Dubai late next month.

The pearl necklace has been up for sale by her family members. The late singer was revered in the Arab world and millions thronged the Cairo streets for her funeral in 1975. Known as ‘The Shining Star of the Middle East’ she regaled spellbound audiences worldwide with her vocal talents and received treatment on a par with heads of state in Arab countries.

The nine-row pearl necklace with multi-coloured enamel and white stone details in the style of a traditional Indian ‘Stalada’ necklace, was created around 1880 and consists of an estimated 1,888 pearls.

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