Natural pearl, gem set and diamond pendant featuring the 'Staatholder Pearl'

The baroque-shaped natural pearl measuring approximately 27.40 x 20.45 x 14.40mm, suspended from a surmount set with variously cut rubies and diamonds, decorated with black enamel, from a multi-strand seed pearl sautoir, length approximately 820mm.

Rubies of Burmese origin cannot be imported into the US. This piece may contain rubies of Burmese origin and therefore may not be able to be imported into the US. Certification of non-Burmese origin will be required before import of rubies into the US. Please see our Important Notices and contact the jewellery department for further information. Accompanied by SSEF report no. 73571, stating that the pearl, weighing approximately 50 carat and measuring approximately 27.40 x 20.45 x 14.40 mm, was found to be natural, saltwater. According to the SSEF report, the pearl is of white body colour, for further information please refer to the report; some blemishes and growths marks, good lustre. Seed pearls slightly silvery white. Rubies well matched. Black enamel with few chips and areas of loss. Diamonds bright and lively. Clasp secure. Signs of normal wear to the metal, scratches consistent with use. In good condition. Total gross weight approximately 26 grams. Please note that Sotheby's is not responsible for the accuracy of any estimated weights provided by gemmological certificates.
"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."

The baroque-shaped pearl was named after Prince Frederick Henry of Orange (1584-1647), Staatholder of the Netherlands. By family tradition, it is understood that this pearl was inherited by his daughter Princess Henriette Catherine who wore it on the day of her marriage to Prince George II of Anhalt-Dessau (1627-1693), in 1659. The small cross on the surmount refers to the late Prince Frederick, who died it 1647.

The 'Staatholder Pearl' continued to be worn by the subsequent brides in the family including the present owner's mother, Duchess Edda Charlotte, at her wedding in 1929, and the present owner's wife, Princess Corinna, at her wedding in 1960. According to family tradition, the 'Staatholder Pearl' guarantees a long and happy marriage.