Platinum, Aquamarine and Diamond Bracelet, Cartier, London, Circa 1930

The flexible strap decorated in a geometric pattern with emerald-cut, oval, square-cut and long hexagonal-shaped aquamarines weighing approximately 60.50 carats, accented by round diamonds weighing approximately 2.90 carats, length 7 inches, signed Cartier, London, numbered 737 ?692.

Very well made and nicely articulated. Aquamarines are well matched in color, they are a slightly greenish blue of medium light tone and very brilliant. The diamonds are G-H color range and mostly VS-SI clarity. Very good overall condition. Signature is on the tongue end of clasp.
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.

According to Judy Rudoe in the exhibition catalogue Cartier: 1900-1939, much of Cartier's aquamarine jewelry was made by the company's London branch. Records from 1932 show a number of aquamarine and diamond pieces ordered not only for London clients but for Americans shopping at the London or Paris branches. One of the more interesting commissions came from Elsie de Wolfe, also known as Lady Mendl, a highly successful decorator and a prominent figure in New York, Paris and London society. Upon arriving in New York in 1935, Lady Mendl posed for photographers, remarking that: 'her hair was tinted aquamarine to match her latest acquisition, a curling spiral tiara of diamonds and aquamarines that she had commissioned from Cartier, her favorite jewelers'.

Author of the influential book The House in Good Taste, Lady Mendl was selected the Best Dressed Woman in the World by Parisian couturiers in 1935 at age 70.