This topic is a good one. The jewels are top class and just simply beautiful. However when the 6th Duke died it was reported that the Westminster estates did a deal with the government way back where they pay a lump sum in taxes I think every 10 or so years so they avoid inheritance taxes. This beautiful set is not the only jewels sold off by the Westminster's and I doubt they are short of any money having a reported wealth of some 9 Billion pounds. So it boggles the mind why sell these historic pieces. And this is not the only wealthy family to sell off jewels others have also done it too.

Regards,

Dave.