Natural pearl and diamond parure, late 19th century

Comprising: a necklace designed as a line of natural pearls of grey and cream tints measuring from 5.25 to 10.70mm, accented with circular-cut diamonds, suspending a drop-shaped natural pearl measuring approximately 12.90 x 13.10 x 20.50mm, length approximately 395mm; a brooch of scroll design, brooch fitting detachable, hinged pendant bail to reverse; and a pair of earrings, post and butterfly fittings, fitted case.

Accompanied by SSEF report no. 73668, stating that the twenty-four pearls were found to be natural, saltwater, with no indications of artificial colour modification. Accompanied by SSEF report no. 73681, stating that the fifty pearls were found to be natural, saltwater, with no indications of artificial colour modification, and that due to setting, the pearl on the clasp has not been tested. Necklace: According to the SSEF report the drop-shaped pendant pearl weighs approximately 23 carats and measures approximately 12.90 x 13.10 x 20.50 mm; drop-shaped pearl with visible growth marks and blemishes; the remaining pearls on the necklace have diameters measuring from approximately 5.30 - 6.15 - 10.70 - 6.25 - 5.25 mm. Pearls are slightly cream to light cream and light brown to greyish brown body colour, partly with rosé, green and purple overtones, some with minor blemishes. Largest diamond measuring approximately 7.62 x 7.41 x 4.40 mm, calculated to weigh approximately 1.50 carats, as gauged and graded in collet setting; remaining diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 3.50 carats, a few with nicks, as gauged in the mounting; on average of H-J colour, SI-I clarity. Clasp secure; safety catch. Signs of normal wear to the mounting, consistent with use. In good condition. Brooch: According to the SSEF report the five smaller pearls on the brooch weigh 2.81, 2.77, 2.64, 3.06 and 2.50 carats and measure from 7.95 - 8.02 x 5.80 mm to 7.40 - 7.50 x 7.90 mm, the larger pearl weighs approximately 5.9 carat and measures approximately 8.50 - 10.00 x 10.65 mm, light grey to grey, partly with purple and green overtones; all with good skin and luster, one with a minor hairline on front surface, visible under magnification. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 2.00 carats, bright and lively. Brooch fitting detachable, screw fitting. Hinged pendant bail. Signs of minor wear to the metal consistent with use, minor tarnish to mounting reverse. In good condition. Ear clips: According to the SSEF report, the pearls weighing 4.98 and 4.44 carat, measuring 9.05 - 9.30 x 8.08 mm and 9.19 - 9.22 x 7.70 mm respectively, of light grey body colour, one with purple and the other with green overtone. Pearls with a few minor blemishes. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 3.00 carats, bright and lively. Post and butterfly fittings. Accompanied by 16 pearls on a thread: According to the SSEF report, the 16 pearls measure from approximately 4.60 to 5.60 mm, of slightly cream to cream body colour, round to button-shaped; mixed lustres. In good condition. Total gross weight approximately 63 grams. Please note that Sotheby's is not responsible for the accuracy of any estimated weights provided by gemmological certificates.
"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."