FINE RUBY AND DIAMOND BROOCH/HAIR ORNAMENT, BACHRUCH, CIRCA 1900

Designed as a bow of circular-cut and rose diamonds, set at the centre with a cushion-shaped ruby weighing 6.89 carats, within a border of cushion-shaped diamonds, central cluster detachable, may be worn as a pendant with an additional fitting, brooch and hair comb fittings, fitted case stamped Bachruch A.

Given by Archduke Frédéric of Austria (1856-1936) to his daughter, Archduchess Marie Anne of Austria, Princess Elie de Bourbon-Parme (1882-1940) on the occasion of the birth of her son, Charles, in 1905. "Un écrin peau blanche avec gros noeud en diamants, grand rubis au milieu (de Bachruch). Ce noeud m'a été donné par mon père pour la naissance de mon fils, Charles". 

[A white leather case with a large diamond bow, a large ruby at the centre (from Bachruch). This bow was a gift from my father for the birth of my son, Charles]. 

Excerpt from the inventory of Archduchess Marie Anne of Austria, Princess Elie de Bourbon Parme

Please note that the tortoiseshell comb cannot be shipped outside of Switzerland. Accompanied by SSEF report no. 93527, stating that the cushion-shaped ruby weighing 6.89 carats, measuring 13.31 x 10.36 x 5.41mm, is of Burmese origin, with no indications of heating. Ruby pinkish red of medium saturation, with typical surface reaching inclusions, minor cavity and chips around the girdle, and nicks. For more information on the ruby, please refer to the SSEF report. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 13.00 - 15.00 carats, on average J-K colour, SI-I included clarity, as gauged and graded in the mount. Evidence of wear and age to the metal. Secure clasp. In good condition. Detachable fittings including, two brooch pins, one pin catch, a tortoiseshell hair comb and a screwdriver. Fitted case stamped Bachruch A BUDAPEST.
"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.
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."

Accompanied by SSEF report no. 93527, stating that the ruby is of Burmese origin, with no indications of heating.