It is said by many authors that a large number of items (for example necklaces with large diamonds) were broken up and the stones sold individually. The government appears to have sold items to individual dealers privately. In turn these dealers auctioned items or again sold them privately. From time to time items turn up which are said to have a Romanov provenance. Some of these, of course, belonged to members of the wider family.
One syndicate which purchased significant items from the Soviets sold their collection through Christie's in London in 1927. Some items from this sale are well known; others have disappeared without a trace.
After the auction one London paper published coloured photos.
Another gave a description of the main items in the auction.
Even Queen Mary was interested. As far as we know she did not purchase anything, although the elaborate snuff box was purchased -- circa 1930 (I think) after it had been sold several times.
The elegant pearl drop tiara, which has ended up in the collection of Imelda Marcos, was sold at this auction to a dealer who was probably acting for Gladys (Deacon), Duchess of Marlborough, the subsequent owner.
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