TWO RUBY AND DIAMOND BRACELETS, LATE 19TH CENTURY, COMPOSITE

The first set with a cabochon ruby, the front highlighted with rose diamonds, length approximately 170mm, Austrian assay mark for gold and partial maker's mark, the second centering a cushion-shaped ruby framed with circular-cut diamonds, flanked by oval rubies and circular-cut diamonds, length approximately 180mm, Austrian assay mark for gold.

Given by Princess Marie Antonia of Portugal (1862-1959), second wife of Robert de Bourbon, Duke of Parma (1848-1907), to Princess Marie Anne de Bourbon Parme (1882-1940), one for her engagement, and the other for the birth of her son Charles in 1905. Princess Marie Anne de Bourbon Parme states in her inventory:

"Un écrin peau blanche avec bracelet rubis et diamants (Settepani). Ce bracelet m'a été donné par ma belle-mère pour la naissance de mon fils Charles. [A white leather case with a ruby and diamond bracelet (Settepani). This bracelet was given by my mother-in-law for the birth of my son Charles].

Un écrin cuir rouge (Hübner) bracelet rubis et diamants. Cadeau de fiançailles de ma belle-mère. [A red leather case (Hübner), ruby and diamond bracelet. Engagement gift from my mother-in-law]."

Austrian assay marks for 14 carat gold and partial maker's mark. Star ruby overall in good condition, showing relatively weak and uneven asterism, minor abrasions. Oval rubies well matched in colour. red of medium strong saturation, with typical inclusions, some visible to the naked eye, some surface reaching, visible abrasions to the surface. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 3.20 - 3.40 carats, on average G-I, I, included clarity, some abrasions and chips. Scratches and tarnish to the metal consistent with age and normal use. Clasps secure with safety chains. Total gross weight approximately 57 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."