Gold, Citrine, Ruby, Diamond and Colored Diamond Ring, Circa 1940

The ring set in the center with an emerald-cut citrine weighing approximately 16.50 carats, calibré-cut rubies, round diamonds of yellow hue weighing approximately .60 carat, and small single-cut near colorless diamonds, size 6¼.

In good condition with signs of sizing to the shank. The citrine is a rich burnt orange with a slight band of color zoning through the center, eye clean. The lively round medium yellow diamonds are approximately VS clarity. The rubies are deep pinkish red and of fine clarity.
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.

In the early days of Hollywood, women played a significant yet largely unsung role as screenwriters.  One such writer was the Spanish-born Ouida Bergère (1886-1974).  Starting her career as a stage actress, Ouida soon turned her attention to writing, contributing to the New York Herald and eventually crafting nearly 40 screenplays.  Fate intervened in 1920 when, while writing the screen version of Peter Ibbetson, she met and married English actor Sir Basil Rathbone (1892-1967) who was playing the lead role in the stage production.  Though he built his reputation performing Shakespeare in London's West End, Sir Rathbone gained greater fame for his iconic portrayal of Sherlock Holmes in over a dozen Hollywood films.  

The bold design, daring color combination and use of calibré-cut rubies found in the present ring evoke the work of Paul Flato, the renowned jeweler to the Hollywood set of which Sir and Mrs. Rathbone were prominent members.