Highly Important Diamond necklace, F. Chiappe, 1909

Designed as a graduated rivière of twenty-eight circular-cut diamonds weighing 161.29 carats in total, the six largest diamonds to the front weighing respectively 7.98, 8.00, 9.81, 11.38, 15.11 and 16.62 carats, length approximately 410mm, unsigned, fitting deficient, later altered to current design, case.

Cf: F. Chiappe Gioielliere Genova,1909, Chiappe, Fiori Archives.

Cf: Dictionnaire du Bijou, Regard, 1998, page 130.

Cf: Dizionario del Gioiello Italiano, Umberto Allemandi & Co, 2005, page 74.

Metal tested as platinum. Total diamond weight 161.29 carats. Please refer to GIA report for details of the six largest diamonds at the front: 7.98 carats, L Colour, VS2 Clarity 8.00 carats, L Colour, SI1 Clarity 9.81 carats, L Colour, SI2 Clarity 11.38 carats, L Colour, SI2 Clarity 15.11 carats, L Colour, SI2 Clarity 16.62 carats, L Colour, VS2 Clarity. In our experts' opinion the rest of the diamonds are ranging from H-K in colour, and VS2 - SI1 in clarity. Screw threads at the back. Scratches to mount commensurate with age and wear. Clasp secure, with safety catch. 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."

This diamond riviere was created in 1909 by Filippo Chiappe of Genoa, and adapted at a later date. It was one of a large group of jewels created especially for the marriage of two important Italian aristocratic families. This order brought acclaim to Chiappe; his jewels immediately became sought after by the aristocracy and leaders of society, and he was appointed as court jeweller by the Italian Royal Family in 1913. Crown Prince Umberto of Savoy commissioned Chiappe to create a diamond necklace based on the design of the Savoy knot, to celebrate his marriage to Princess Marie Jose of Belgium. The company is currently run by the Fiori family, nephews of Filippo Chiappe, and is located on the via XX Septembre in Genoa.