When the 65th Cannes Film Festival kicks off next week many of the world’s biggest A-list stars will be heading to crystal-maker Swarovski’s suite at the Hotel Martinez to make their red carpet accessory choices from this year’s Red Carpet collection.

Raquel Zimmermann stars in the “My Dior” Jewelry Spring 2012 ad campaign photographed by Steven Meisel and styled by Carine Roitfeld.

A centuries-old diamond passed down through generations of European royalty fetched nine million Swiss francs ($9.7 million) at auction in Geneva on Tuesday.

The 34.98-carat “Beau Sancy” diamond measures 2.3 centimetres in height, is 1.9 cm wide and 1.1 cm deep.

Passed down through the royal families of France, England, Prussia and the Netherlands, the Beau de Sancy has witnessed 400 years of European history.

The Cannes Film Festival is just around the corner, and to celebrate its 15th year as the event’s official sponsor, luxury jewelry house Chopard has made sure its Red Carpet Collection 2012 is one to remember, with designs ranging from classic old Hollywood to extravagant and colorful creations.

Freja Beha Erichsen for Harry Winston Jewelry 2012 Ad Campaign.

Following the announcement that Marilyn Monroe is the icon of the upcoming 65th Cannes Film Festival, event sponsor Chopard has designed a one-off creation to be worn by one lucky celebrity — whose identity won’t be unveiled until May 16.

The late Hollywood actress famously sung about diamonds being a girl’s best friend, so for this year a necklace of heart-shaped diamonds and briolettes designed by Chopard’s co-president Caroline Scheufele will be revealed.