Enamel, emerald and diamond ring, late 18th Century

Set at the centre with an oval hinged locket of giardinetto design, applied to the top with a vase of flowers decorated with polychrome enamel, enhanced with a mixed-cut emerald and rose diamonds, the shoulders accented with a pair of winged enamel figures with rose diamond crowns to an open work foliate scroll shank, size k.

CF: Diana Scarisbrick, "Rings, Symbols of Wealth, Power and Affection", Thames and Hudson 1993, pages 130, 136 and 137 for designs of 18 Century giardinetto rings.

Locket possibly originally with glazed hair locket now deficient, old gold and lead solder repairs to underside of bezel and shank and beneath each term, traces of indistint enamel inscription to the underside of bezel "dieu +++ b+++" and an image of a butterfly. Wear and some losses to enamel commensurate with age, losses to enamel on extremeties on terms. 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. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. 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. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
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