Some jewels are more than an arrangement of precious stones; they become cultural artifacts shaped by time, rarity, and emotional meaning. Australian high jeweler Margot McKinney adds a new chapter to jewelry history with a creation that perfectly embodies this idea.
The necklace, titled Jardin Collier, is widely regarded as a defining milestone in McKinney’s career. Composed of five exceptionally rare fancy colored diamonds and one colorless diamond arranged in a vertical composition, this singular piece is valued at approximately $150 million and is considered impossible to recreate.
A composition that can never be repeated
What makes Jardin Collier extraordinary goes far beyond its financial value. Six diamonds—each distinct in color, cut, and character—come together in perfect equilibrium within a single form. Individually, each stone would already be considered exceptional; united in one necklace, they represent a convergence that borders on the unimaginable.
McKinney’s philosophy is clear: this necklace is more than the sum of its parts. Once separated, these stones could never be brought together again in the same way, making the piece truly irreplaceable.
The Argyle legacy and a closed chapter in mining history
Three of the colored diamonds originate from the legendary Argyle Mine in Western Australia. Closed in 2020, Argyle was responsible for producing the majority of the world’s pink, red, and violet diamonds. Today, stones from this mine are regarded as part of an irreversible legacy.
This fact elevates Jardin Collier beyond rarity, positioning it as a historical object within the world of high jewelry.
The language of color
The necklace unfolds through a striking chromatic narrative from top to bottom. Beginning with a violet-hued diamond, the composition flows into blue, yellow-orange, pink, and red stones. Anchoring the piece is a flawless colorless diamond, serving as a visual and emotional finale.
Each diamond is framed by complementary gemstones, while marquise-cut colorless diamonds introduce rhythm and movement throughout the design. The result is an aesthetic that is restrained yet undeniably powerful.
A seven-year creative journey
The creation of this necklace was anything but accidental. From sourcing the stones to refining the design and completing the final piece, the process spanned approximately seven years. Known for her organic forms, McKinney adopts a more graphic and linear approach here.
The intention is unmistakable: the diamonds take center stage. The design does not compete with them; it elevates them.
Reserved for collectors, presented in complete discretion
Presenting a jewel of this magnitude requires its own strategy. Jardin Collier is shown exclusively through private appointments to an exceptionally limited circle. McKinney deliberately balances visibility with discretion.
Because transporting the original necklace is impractical, an identical replica was created. This replica accompanies the sale, allowing the owner to wear the piece while the original remains securely preserved.
More than a jewel
Jardin Collier is positioned not only as a masterpiece of today, but as an object future generations will continue to discuss. In McKinney’s words, the necklace carries the potential to become a family heirloom symbolizing everlasting love.
Voggia’s perspective
Margot McKinney’s Jardin Collier reflects a modern definition of luxury—one shaped not solely by opulence, but by rarity, meaning, and intentional design. In the realm of high jewelry, it offers a quiet yet powerful response to the question of whether more is still possible.
