Emerald and diamond tiara, Koch, circa 1910

Of bow and foliate design, highlighted at the centre with a square step-cut emerald, millegrain-set with circular-cut and rose diamonds, inner circumference approximately 200mm, fitted case stamped Koch Frankfurt a/M Baden Baden.

Mounted in silver and gold. Emerald estimated to weigh approximately 1.20 carats, few scratches and nicks. Largest diamonds estimated to weigh approximately 1.15 carats, total weight not possible to estimate due to many rose-cut diamonds, but all stones bright and lively. Signs of normal wear to the metal, scratches consistent with use. 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."

The Frankfurt am Main firm of Koch was founded in 1879 by Robert Koch, who was subsequently joined by his brother Louis. Business thrived in the 1880s, the firm expanded, and soon was in the position to open a branch in Baden Baden, the fashionable spa resort, from where the Koch brothers catered to an international clientele. Around the turn of the century Robert and Louis Koch travelled extensively to European courts and holiday resorts to supply their large clientele who included the German imperial family as well as European aristocrats and millionaires. 1902 was an important year in the history of the firm: Robert Koch died, his brother took sole charge of the firm and premises were moved to Kaiserstrasse, in a landmark building by Paul Wallot. The years of the First World War, followed by the profound economic recession, proved to be difficult for Koch. Louis Koch, whose brilliant and creative mind led the firm for half a century, died in 1930. The firm passed to the hands of his grandsons and nephews, who ran it through the difficult 1930s. Under the Nazi regime international trade was seriously inhibited, some members of the family were forced to leave, and the Baden Baden shop was closed. After the war the firm re-opened under new ownership and business started to thrive again in the 1950s.  Koch closed in the mid 1980s, and although their production covers all the different styles of the last one hundred years, their name remains linked to their superb jewels in the Garland Style.