Important emerald and diamond necklace, Van Cleef & Arpels, circa 1948

The necklace of swag design suspending five detachable clips, set with three step-cut emeralds and variously-cut stones including step-, circular-cut, marquise-, kite-shaped, demi-lune- and baguette diamonds, length approximately 380mm, signed Van Cleef & Arpels, numbered.

Formerly in the collection of Lily Pons

Necklace signed Van Cleef & Arpels N.Y. and numbered N.Y. 10956, each clip signed and numbered respectively 1056, 10956, 10956, 10956, 1095; one with signature partially rubbed, maker's marks on all pieces. Clip fittings stamped 14K for 14 carat gold. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 45.00 - 50.00 carats, on average of G-H colour and VS-SI clarity, as gauged and graded in mounting. Signs of normal wear to the metal, scratches consistent with use. In good condition. Gross weight approximately 180 grams.
"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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

In 19^thcentury Italy, the leading lady in an opera or commedia dell’arte was known as the ‘Primadonna’, literally the ‘first lady’. During her nearly three decades with the Metropolitan Opera in New York, Miss Lily Pons embodied this role, her fame carrying over into both film and radio.

Lily Pons (1898 – 1976), née Alice Joséphine Pons, was born in France, in the region of Draguignan, near Cannes. Having studied piano as a young girl, her professional singing début came with the title role of Lakmé, at an opera house in Alsace. She built up her repertoire in Parisian opera houses before débuting at the Met in 1931 where she was instantly lauded for her performance of Lucia de Lammermoor. Exuding beauty, charm, and an incredible talent, she specialized in French and Italian coloratura parts and became the first soprano to reach the high ‘F’ composed by Delibes in his Lakmé opera, and also able to hold a high ‘D’ for nearly a minute.

In 1944 and 1945, Miss Pons toured with the USO (United Service Organizations), performing for American troops at military bases throughout Europe, the Middle East, India and China. By then she was a naturalized US citizen, and was accompanied on her trips by her husband, the famous conductor Andre Kostelanetz, who led a band composed entirely of American soldiers.

Miss Pons went on to star in three Hollywood films, including I Dream Too Much with Henry Fonda whilst maintaining a recording contract with RCA, Victor and Columbia, leaving a vast legacy of recordings. Other honours include a Time Magazine cover in December 1940, a US postage stamp with her image, and a town in Maryland named after her – Lilypons, Maryland. From her native France she was awarded the Croix de Lorraine and the Légion d’honneur.

Becoming one of the highest paid performers of her time, Miss Pons maintained an impressive art collection including works by Renoir, Braque, Pissaro, Chagall and Matisse. Her clothing and jewellery collection was equally impressive.  She is seen on the cover of her Lucia di Lammermoor recording from 1954 wearing a sumptuous dress by Nina Ricci, and the Van Cleef & Arpels necklace offered here.