IMPORTANT PAIR OF NATURAL PEARL AND DIAMOND PENDENT EARRINGS, LATE 18TH CENTURY

Each surmount set with a button shaped natural pearl measuring approximately 12.65 x 12.95 x 15.60mm and 12.95 x 13.10 x 16.00mm respectively, the reverse set with rose diamonds, supporting a detachable pendant set with an oval natural pearl measuring approximately 10.25 x 10.50 x 8.55mm and 10.15 x 10.20 x 7.70mm respectively, capped with rose diamonds, and a pinched collet-set cushion-shaped diamond, early 19th century, hook and hinged back fittings.

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 (...):

4. Deux boucles d'oreilles, boutons et poires en perles

(...) 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 (...):

4. Two earrings set with button and drop shaped pearls.

(...) 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"].

Accompanied by SSEF report no. 93538, stating that the two oval pearls measuring approximately 12.65 x 12.95 x 15.60mm and approximately 12.95 x 13.10 x 16.00mm, estimated to weigh approximately 19 carats and 20 carats respectively, and the two button-shaped pearls, measuring approximately 10.25 x 10.50 x 8.55mm and 10.15 x 10.20 x 7.70mm, estimated to weigh approximately 6.4 carats and 5.6 carats respectively, were found to be natural, saltwater. Pearls of slightly cream and light cream body colour, good lustre, some surface blemishes and typical spotting consistent with age. Diamonds bright and lively. Scratches and tarnish to the metal consistent with age. In good condition. Total gross weight approximately 15 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. 93538, stating that the pearls were found to be natural, saltwater.