Diamond cuff bracelet, Suzanne Belperron, 1967

Designed as three arched and tapered bands decorated with cushion-shaped and circular-cut diamonds, inner circumference approximately 150mm, French maker's mark.

Cf: Sylvie Raulet and Olivier Baroin, Suzanne Belperron, Italy, 2011, pg. 93 for an illustration of a bracelet of identical design.

Maker's mark for Darde & Fils (found on the interior of one of the outer bands, between the two largest diamonds). Comprising: 63 diamonds total; according to the order the bracelet includes 54 diamonds weighing a total of 21.69 carats, plus an additional 9 diamonds which were supplied in the form of a brooch by the client who commissioned the bracelet; diamonds of mixed colours and clarities, on average H - K colour, VS - SI clarity, as graded in the mounting. Signs of wear and tarnish consistent with age and use. In good condition. The bracelet is not flexible and is made for a relatively small wrist, the opening measures approximately 20mm. Gross weight approximately 62 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."

Madame L lived in Buenos Aires and had one passion, jewels. She scoured auction houses for the highest possible quality gems which she treasured for their colour and beauty. Her first mission upon acquiring such a piece was to travel to Paris to visit Madame Belperron. The Belperron archives illustrate Madame L’s meticulous nature and dedication to her jewels. Madame Belperron often lent Madame L the copper models for jewels which she commissioned. This gave her the opportunity to become accustomed to their feel and make modifications before the final version was cast. Such was the case for this bracelet – a favoured design of Madame Belperron. On 30 April 1967, the copper model of the bracelet, made to measure upon Madame L’s wrist, was lent to Madame L, along with a similar finished bracelet owned by Madame Belperron. Two weeks later, Madame L returned to Madame Belperron to confirm her order and make one modification, to close the opening by 1mm. The copper model and ledger recording this order survive to this day.