EXCEPTIONAL AND HIGHLY IMPORTANT NATURAL PEARL AND DIAMOND PENDANT, 18TH CENTURY

Set with an oval diamond supporting a diamond bow motif and a slightly baroque drop  shaped natural pearl measuring approximately 15.90 x 18.35 x 25.85mm, hook and hinged back fitting, the pearl and diamond bow motif were suspended from Marie Antoinette’s three strand pearl necklace; the single stone oval diamond surmount formed the clasp of that same necklace (see page *** for an illustration of Marie Antoinette pearl necklace and inventory description), together with an original fitted case mentioned in Marie Anne of Austria, Princess Elie de Bourbon Parme’s inventory for the three row pearl necklace (lot….), the single row (lot…), the pair of pearl and diamond earrings (lot …) and the pearl and diamond pendant (lot …).

Formerly in the collection of Marie-Antoinette, Queen of France (1755-1793). The inventory written by Archduchess Marie Anne of Austria, Princess Elie de Bourbon Parme, mentions: "Une grande parure de perles (...): 1. Trois rangs de grosses perles, dont le premier de 49 perles, le deuxième de 53 perles, et le troisième de 61 perles, en tout 161 perles. (Cf. lots 97 and 98) (...) 3. Une grosse poire avec petit noeud en diamants, et gros solitaire. La poire faisait autrefois, avec le noeud en diamants, partie du 3ème rang de grosses perles. Le solitaire formait autrefois le fermoir du grand collier (lot 100). 4. Deux boucles d'oreilles, boutons et poires en perles (lot 99). (...) Cette parure provient tel quel (sic) de la Reine Marie Antoinette, et a été légué (sic) par Marie Thérèse de France, Duchesse d'Angoulême, Comtesse de Marne, à sa nièce et fille adoptive, Louise Marie Thérèse de France, Mademoiselle Duchesse de Parme". [A large pearl parure (...): 1. Three rows of large pearls the first one comprising 49 pearls, the second 53 pearls and the third one 61 pearls, in total 161 pearls (Cf. lots 97 and 98). (...) 3. A large drop with a small diamond bow and a large diamond. The drop was originally, together with the diamond bow, part of the third row of large pearls. The diamond was originally the clasp of the large necklace (lot 100). 4. Two earrings set with button and drop shaped pearls (lot 99). (...) This parure comes as it is from Queen Marie Antoinette and was inherited by Marie Thérèse de France, Duchess d'Angoulême, Countesse de Marne, then to her niece and adoptive daughter, Louise Marie Thérèse de France, Mademoiselle Duchesse de Parme"]. On the photograph illustrated on page 129, the necklace is presented in its original form as it was worn by the most famous Queen of France, Queen Marie Antoinette. Lots 97 and 98 were strung as a three row pearl necklace; lot 100 decorated the front of the necklace and the oval diamond formed the clasp.

Accompanied by SSEF report no. 93539, stating that the slightly baroque drop-shaped pearl measuring approximately 15.90 x 18.35 x 25.85mm, was found to be natural, saltwater. Natural pearl of slightly cream body colour, partly with rosé and green overtones, with good skin and lustre, small pinpoints and blemishes. For more information on the pearl, please refer to the SSEF report. In our experts' opinion, the central cushion-shaped diamond measuring approximately 11.20 x 8.70 x 4.60mm, calculated to weigh approximately 3.40 carats, as far as mount permits. Remaining diamonds bright and lively. Signs of wear to the metal consistent with age, evidence of tarnish. In very good condition. Gross weight approximately 13 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.
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. 93539, stating that the pearl was found to be natural, saltwater, together with an appendix letter.