Gold, Topaz, Citrine Quartz and Diamond Brooch, mainly late 18th century

Designed as the middle and upper sections of the Neck Badge of the Austrian Order of the Golden Fleece, set at the top with a cushion-shaped topaz framed by old-mine diamonds within border of chased gold flames, suspending a detachable brooch set with a large cushion-shaped citrine framed by old-mine diamonds within a border of chased gold acanthus leaves, the galleried clusters are late 19th century.  

The Thurn und Taxis Collection, Sotheby's Geneva, November 17, 1992, lot 262. 

The topaz is the smaller of the two stones and measures approximately 20.7 by 15.5 by 6.6 mm. The citrine measures approximately 29.5 by 25.0 by 14.0 mm. The top topaz is slightly more peachy orangy-yellow than the lower citrine, which is more golden brownish-yellow. Both are eye clean. There are 52 old-mine diamonds weighing 10.50 carats approximately I-L color (many with a light brown tint) and SI-I clarity. There is a slight difference in color of the gold between the top frame and the bottom frame, the top frame being of a more pinkish gold tint. There are brooch pin stems on each of the pieces, so they could be worn separately. In good condition overall.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. 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. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

With original lot tag from the Thurn and Taxis sale.

The present jewel was part of a selection of jewels from the Thurn und Taxis Collection that pertained to the Austrian Order of the Golden Fleece.

The Order of the Golden Fleece was founded in Bruges by Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, to commemorate his marriage to the Infanta Isabelle, daughter of King John I of Portugal in 1429. The symbols are derived from the legend of Jason and the Argonauts whose courage and exploits were meant to be an inspiration for the Knights.  The Order soon became one of the most coveted in Europe and it was awarded by the Dukes of Burgundy and their successors, the Kings of Spain. After the extinction of the male line of the Spanish Habsburgs in 1700, the rights to the Order were claimed by the Austrian branch. The argument between Spain and Austria ended in 1748 when the Order was divided into Austrian and Spanish branches.