18 Karat Gold, Silver, Colored Stone and Diamond 'Elephant' Pendant-Necklace, René Boivin, France

The fanciful elephant topped by a cabochon star sapphire measuring approximately 14.10 by 10.85 mm, accented by pear-shaped sapphires and emeralds, further set with round and square-cut rubies, the crown adorned with a cabochon emerald and the eyes set with two cabochon sapphires, set throughout with round diamonds weighing approximately 2.05 carats, suspended by a fancy-link chain, gross weight of chain approximately 77 dwts, chain length 28¾ inches, the pendant with French assay and workshop marks, the chain with French assay and maker's marks; circa 1940. With signed pouch.

In good condition. The elephant pendant can be worn on the chain provided or used as an objet when the chain is detached. The star sapphire cabochon is light violet blue, translucent, with a moderately strong star. The sapphires are medium deep slightly violetish blue and lightly included. The rubies are medium deep slightly purplish red and range from lightly to moderately included. The emeralds are medium deep green and range from moderately to heavily included. The diamonds are approximately G-I color, VS clarity. The brushed gold bears some slight discoloration and the silver tusks and feet are slightly tarnished, but these could have been intentional design decisions by Boivin. Both the chain and the pendant bear a nice heft.
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.

For an elephant pendant of almost identical design see René Boivin: Jeweller, by Françoise Cailles, page 356.

For sketches of similar elephant brooches see The Jeweled Menagerie: The World of Animals in Gems, by Suzanne Tennenbaum and Janet Zapata, page 190.