18 karat gold, diamond and ruby necklace/clip combination, René Boivin, circa 1960

Composed of three large matte gold links of quatrefoil shape, each framing a cluster of 12 collet-set cushion-shaped diamonds, the sides decorated with bands of small round rubies, pierced at the sides and strung on a black suede necklet with 18 karat gold buckle, one link signed R. Boivin, French assay marks and maker's marks; together with additional red suede necklet of similar design and three clip fittings of later date.  With box signed René Boivin, Paris. 

Formerly from the Estate of Babe Paley, Sotheby's, New York, October 19, 1992, lot 477.

Estimated total diamond weight approximately 35.00 carats, estimated colour H-K, estimated clarity VS-I. Rubies are a deep brownish red. One link signed R. Boivin on inner lip. 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. 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.

Topping the Best Dressed List year after year with her elegant wardrobe and exquisite jewels, Babe Paley was a fashion icon who dominated the social scene until her death in 1978. 

The youngest of the three famous Cushing sisters, Barbara, or 'Babe' was born in 1915. Daughters of the noted Boston neurosurgeon Dr. Harvey Cushing and Katherine Crowell Cushing, Babe and her sisters, Minnie and Betsey were noted for their intellegence and attractiveness.  All three sisters made advantageous marriages that launched them into the highest levels of society. Babe, who was first married to Standard Oil heir Stanley Mortimer, Jr., of Tuxedo Park, was the only career woman of the sisters. As a fashion editor at Vogue, she was extremely popular; her elegance and uneerring sense of style were much imitated.  In 1947, after her divorce from Mortimer, she married William S. Paley, the President of Columbia Broadcasting Systems. 

This necklace is mentioned as a bequest of Barbara Cushing Paley to her daughter Amanda Burden in the book In All His Glory: The Life of William S. Paley, by Sally Bedell Smith, p. 616.