The stunning collection of jewellery belonging to renowned opera singer Maria Callas is to go under the hammer today, as a range of exquisite platinum, ruby and diamond pieces are put up for auction.

Maria Callas became famous for a series of diva performances beginning in the 1940s, before later marrying shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis.

Her jewellery is widely regarded as an excellent collection, with the 11 items expected to net in excess of £500,000.

Items include a ruby and diamond brooch set in platinum worth up to £45,000, and a number of diamond necklaces.

Sotheby's Geneva director Brett O'Connor told the BBC the auction allowed "everybody to have a chance to have a piece of someone who was so liked".

Callas died in 1977, but the opera singer's famously fiery character and dazzling glamour have ensured the auction will be well attended.