Ruby and diamond tiara, mid-19th century

Set with foil backed rubies and circular-cut and rose diamonds, length approximately 370mm, may be worn as a necklace with a detachable chain, additional brooch fittings, inner circumference of tiara approximately 180mm, fitted case.

From the descendants of Earl Manvers and Viscount Chetwynd. The tiara was given by Lady Annora Charlotte Pierrepont of Thoresby Park, daughter of Charles Pierrepont 2nd Earl Manvers and her husband Charles Watkin Williams-Wynn, an ancient family of aristocratic Welsh politicians and owners of much of the border region of Wales, to their daughter Mary Williams-Wynn on the occasion of her marriage to Henry Goulburn Chetwynd Stapylton JP in 1886. The tiara was left by Mary Chetwynd Stapylton, nee Williams-Wynn, to her daughter Annora Esther Osmaston, nee Chetwynd Stapylton. Thence by decent.

Mounted in silver and gold. Rubies medium red, varying saturations, typical crystal inclusions visible under x10 magnification. Estimated total diamond weight approximately 8.00 - 9.50 carats, on average J-M colour, on average SI clarity, some I. Well articulated. Secure when attached to tiara frame. Brooch fittings easily attached and secure. Detachable chain measuring 252 mm; tiara detached from tiara frame and may be worn as a necklace. Signs of tarnish and wear to mount consistent with age. In good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."