DIAMOND BROOCH, LATE 19TH CENTURY

Of bow design, set with a central cushion-shaped diamond of yellow tint, and cushion-shaped and rose diamonds, fitted case stamped Hübner, the exterior of the case with a crowned monogram MA for Marie Anne of Austria, Princess Elie de Bourbon-Parme.

Given to Archduchess Marie Anne of Austria (1882-1940), by her father-in-law, Duke Robert I of Parma (1848-1907), on the occasion of her engagement to Prince Elie de Bourbon-Parme (1880-1959). By family tradition, the diamonds come from Marie Antoinette, Queen of France (1755-1793). Princess Marie Anne de Bourbon Parme mentions in her inventory:

"Un écrin en cuir rouge foncé avec monogramme M.A. contenant un noeud en diamants, gros diamant jeaune (sic) au milieu. Soi-disant ces pierres faisaient jadis parties (sic) des bijoux de la Reine Marie Antoinette (Ceci m'a été dit par mon beau-père, mais je n'en ai pas trouvé la confirmation dans les testaments existants. Probablement ce noeud a été monté à neuf, ou bien faisait-il partie d'une parure et par conséquant n'était pas mentionné). Le noeud m'a été donné comme cadeau de fiançailles par mon beau père, le Duc Robert I de Parme". 

[A dark red leather case with monogram M.A. containing a diamond bow, large yellow diamond at the centre. The stones are meant to come from the jewels of Queen Marie Antoinette. (I have been told by my father-in-law but I could not find any written confirmation on the existing wills. This bow was probably a new jewel or it was part of a paure and was therefore not mentioned). The bow was given to me as an engagement gift by my father-in-law, Duke Robert I de Parme]. 

Please note that the diamond of yellow tint has not been tested for natural colour. The cushion shaped diamond of yellow tint measuring approximately 14.68 x 12.68 x 9.04mm, calculated to weigh approximately 12.00 carats, with minor abrasions and a small chip. Remaining diamonds weighing approximately 2.50 - 3.00 carats, on average H-I colour, VS-SI clarity, as gauged and graded in the mount. Scratches and tarnish to the metal consistent with age and use. In overall good condition. Gross weight approximately 12 grams. Fitted case stamped MORITZ HÜBNER, KOHLMARKT NO. 28, WIEN.
"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."