NEW YORK, Aug 19, 2001/ --- Nicole Kidman's dazzling necklace from "Moulin Rouge" is much too spectacular to end up in a glass memorabilia case at Planet Hollywood. Instead, the exquisite piece, designed by Sydney-based artist Stefano Canturi, will go under the hammer in Christie's Magnificent Jewels Sale in October. And this is no costume number -- the auction price is expected to reach more than $1 million.

The one-of-a-kind collar piece was created specifically for Nicole Kidman's character, Satine, and named after her. When producer Baz Lurhman told Canturi of the assignment, the designer set out to recapture the essence, illusion and glamour of the eighteenth-century French aristocracy.

Using traditional crafting techniques, "Satine" took five months to create. Precise measurements were taken of Kidman's neck and décolletage to ensure the perfect fit. A wire model was then made, followed by three months of handcrafting and regular fittings.

Canturi created the 18-carat white-gold masterpiece with 1308 diamonds; the total diamond weight is a staggering 134 carats. The largest is a five-carat, emerald-cut diamond. There is also a 2.5-carat sapphire clasp.

Since the film's debut, Canturi has racked up a list of celebrity clients including Elle MacPherson and Celine Dion. His designs range in price from $500 to $1 million.