Lot 1849
  • 1849

EMERALD AND DIAMOND PENDENT EARRINGS, CARVIN FRENCH

Estimate
3,200,000 - 4,500,000 HKD
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Description

  • Carvin French
Each suspending a carved emerald tablet weighing 11.62 and 11.62 carats respectively, embellished with brilliant-cut diamonds and a fringe of diamond briolettes, to the diamond beads and rose diamond surmount, mounted in platinum and 18 karat white gold, post and hinged back fittings, maker's mark for Carvin French.

Condition

Accompanied by AGL report no. 1084414 A and B, dated 21 June 2017, stating that both emeralds are of Russian origin, with minor clarity enhancement; also accompanied by AGL ClassicTM Russia report stating 'Both emeralds exhibit an intense and saturated green color that is representative of top-quality stones from this auspicious source. Please refer to reports for futher details. Inscribed 750 for 18 karat white gold, PT950 for platinum, maker's marks for Carvin French. Emeralds are medium deep green colour of strong saturation, typical natural inclusions when examined under 10x magnification. Diamonds estimated to weigh approximately 15.00 - 20.00 carats in total are on average F to H Colour, VS - SI Clarity, as gauged and graded in the mount. Minor signs of wear on metal, overall in very 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. 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.Certificates of Authenticity: Various manufacturers may not issue certificates of authenticity upon request. Sotheby's is not under an obligation to furnish the purchaser with a certificate of authenticity from the manufacturer at any time. Unless the requirements for a rescission of the sale under the Terms of Guarantee are satisfied, the failure of a manufacturer to issue a certificate will not constitute grounds to rescind the sale. Gemological Certificates and Reports: References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemological laboratories are provided only for the information of bidders, and Sotheby's does not guarantee and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. Please also note that laboratories may differ in their assessment of a gemstone (including its origin and presence, type and extent of treatments) and their certificates or reports may contain different results.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.

Catalogue Note

Accompanied by AGL report no. 1084414 A and B, dated 21 June 2017, stating that both emeralds are of Russian origin, with minor clarity enhancement, and the emeralds are ClassicTM Russia (Ural Mountains); further accompanied by AGL ClassicTM Russia report stating 'Both emeralds exhibit an intense and saturated green color that is representative of top-quality stones from this auspicious source.  They further possess all of the quintessential characteristics that identify top-quality emeralds originating from the Ural Mountains of Russia. The two emeralds...have received a Match Pair RatingTM of: Excellent. This category is the highest ranking and defines a matched pair of gemstones that is rare to achieve and reflects a high level of exclusivity.' _____________________________________________________________________

The Resplendence of Russia

Russian emeralds were first discovered along the foothills of the Ural Mountains during the early 19th century, in the Malysheva region. Though initially, considered the property of the Tzar, in 1898, the mine was leased to an Anglo-French company to operate due to high maintenance costs. During this period, significant amounts of rough were being produced and exported to Europe, being incorporated into the jewels of historic and aristocratic collections.

Many of the finest emerald specimens on display in London’s National History Museum have acquisition labels dated in the mid-19th Century and originate from Malysheva. The Kochubey’s emerald, an 11,000 carat crystal of intense green color, now resides in the Museum of the Academy of Sciences in Moscow. Another 3,370 carat emerald called Glorious Ural Stone was discovered in 1978 and is now safeguarded at the State Treasury of Valuables. In 1990, the mine produced the 37.50 carat Vitaly emerald, one of the largest faceted gems from Russia. Earlier this year, a 7,500 carat gem was recovered from the Malysheva mine, an indication that Russian emeralds may once again reclaim a prime position in the emerald market.    

Of rich green colour, strong saturation and crystal lucidity, Russian emerald mines have been known to produce gems of a very intense green, akin to the finest Colombian emeralds. Lot 1849, of matching bright green colour, intense saturation and impressive size, is intricately carved into a floral motif, decorated with briolette and antique cut diamonds, reminiscent of an era of Russian opulent luxury.