PAIR OF SEED PEARL AND DIAMOND BRACELETS, CIRCA 1850, AND A NATURAL PEARL AND DIAMOND NECKLACE

Each bracelet composed of a torsade of seed pearls, on a clasp designed as a snake head, set with cushion-shaped, circular-cut and rose diamonds, one tong embellished with a circular-cut ruby, length approximately 190mm, one small ruby deficient, and the necklace designed as a double strand of graduated natural pearls measuring from approximately 3.20 to 5.90mm, the clasp set with circular-cut and rose diamonds, shortest length approximately 400mm.

The pair of bracelets were formerly in the collection of Marie Anne de Savoie, Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary (1803-1884). This provenance is mentioned in the inventory written by Marie Anne of Austria, Princess de Bourbon Parme, but also in the will of Empress Marie Anne in 1884, codicille XII: "à ma filleule Marie-Anne, deux bracelets de petites perles avec fermoir en brillants en forme de serpent" [to my goddaughter, Marie Anne, two seed pearl bracelet with snake motif diamond clasps]. "Deux bracelets à 4 rangs de petites perles, fermoirs en diamants, têtes de serpents. Legs de l'Impératrice Marie Anne".

[Two bracelet with 4 rows of small pearls, the diamond clasp of snake's head design. Legacy from Empress Marie Anne].

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

Accompanied by SSEF report no. 102267, stating that the pearls on the necklace, measuring from approximately 3.20 to 5.90mm, were found to be natural, saltwater. The pair of bracelets pearls of white to cream body colour, some with growth marks, small pinpoints and blemishes. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 2.20 - 2.50 carats, on average L-M+ colour, SI clarity, diamonds abraded consistent with age. Scratches to the metal due to age and wear. Clasps secure. One ruby deficient. The necklace pearls partly with rosé and green overtones, good skin and luster, pinpoints, growth marks and blemishes. For more information on the pearls, please refer to the SSEF report. Diamonds bright and lively. Signs of wear to the metal. Clasps secure, collapsible safety catch. In good condition. Total gross weight approximately 41 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 102267, stating that the one hundred and ninety three pearls on the necklace were found to be natural, saltwater.