Lot 181
  • 181

Emerald and diamond necklace, Indian, circa 1900

Estimate
62,000 - 82,000 CHF
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Description

Designed as a fringed collar of  foliate design, decorated with rose-cut diamonds in a kundun setting, supporting a graduated fringe of emerald cabochon drops, together with a pair of matching earrings and an alater attachment, French,  length approximately 310 mm, case signed J. Chaumet, Sr de Morel and Cie, London, New Bond Street, 154, Paris, Place Vendôme, 12.

Condition

Necklace unsigned. Emeralds with a yellowish green hue, typical crystal inclusions, some surface reaching, to be expected with beads. Total diamond weight approximately 12.00-18.00 carats, mixed in colours and clarities, gauged and graded insofar as rose-cutting and yellow gold kundun setting permits. The clasp has been later repaired. Minor scratches and tarnish to metal consistent with age. Overall attractive necklace with signs of normal wear. In good condition.
"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 and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
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."

Catalogue Note

During the 1920's and 1930's exotic jewellery in Indian taste was at the height of its appeal to the sophisticated European and American elite and found its pre-eminent market among the fashionable and artistic society. On many occasions traditional Indian jewels, such as the necklace here, were imported into Europe and embellished with the addition of Westernised ornaments such as a clasp or a plaque.  The exotic and somehow ethnic character of these jewels made them highly attractive to an extremely chic and glamorous clientele; these jewels were adored and worn by such doyens of fashions and avid collectors of jewellery as the Duchess of Windsor, Ganna Walska and Daisy Fellowes to name but a few.