GEM SET AND DIAMOND BROOCH, LATE 19TH CENTURY

Of trefoil design, the four leaves respectively set with a cushion-shaped ruby, a sapphire, an emerald and a diamond of yellow tint, framed with cushion-shaped, circular-cut and rose diamonds.

Given by Marie Anne de Savoie, Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary (1803-1884), to Princess Isabelle de Croÿ, Archduchess Frédéric of Austria (1856-1931) on the occasion of the birth of her daughter, Marie Anne of Austria, Princess Elie de Bourbon-Parme (1882-1940). Princess Marie Anne de Bourbon Parme mentions in her inventory:

"Une broche trèfle à quatre, rubis, saphir, émeraude et saphir jaune (sic) entouré de diamants. Cadeau de ma mère. Donnée par l'Impératrice Marie Anne à ma mère lors de ma naissance". 

[A trefoil brooch with four leaves, ruby, sapphire, emerald and yellow sapphire (sic) surrounded by diamonds. A gift from my mother. Given to my mother by Empress Marie Anne for my birth].

Ruby purplish red of medium-strong saturation, with typical inclusions visible under 10x magnification, minor abrasions and scratches. Sapphire blue of medium-strong saturation, with typical inclusions, abrasions and scratches. Emerald green of strong saturation, with typical surface reaching inclusions, abrasions, scratched and nicks. Diamond of yellow tint measuring approximately 6.60 x 6.30 x 3.60mm, calculated to weigh approximately 1.20 carats, is SI-I clarity, as gauged and graded in the mount. Remaining near-colourless diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 1.80 - 2.20 carats, bright and lively. Signs of tarnish and normal wear to the metal consistent with age. Clasp secure. In good condition. Brooch measuring approximately 60 x 23 x 10mm. Gross weight approximately 9 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."