Very fine emerald and diamond necklace and a pair of earrings, late 19th century

The necklace designed as a series of step-cut emeralds bordered with circular-cut and cushion-shaped diamonds, alternating with cushion-shaped stones mounted in cut-down collets, length approximately 475mm, together with a pair of pendent earrings en suite, later clip and post fittings, fitted case by Rath, Munich.

This demi-parure was purchased by Albert, 8th Prince of Thurn und Taxis around 1890. At that time he also purchased the 'Empress Eugenie Tiara' as a wedding present for Austrian Archduchess, Margarete, whom he married on July 15th in that year. The tiara, designed by Gabriel Lemmonier in 1853, was part of the French crown jewels and is now in the Louvre in Paris.

Cf: Sotheby's, The Thurn und Taxis Collection, Geneva, Tuesday 17th November 1992, lot 300, where the important pearl and diamond tiara by Gabriel Lemonnnier, 1853 was sold.

Metal tested as in silver and gold. Transparent emeralds in ear clips stated to measure approximately 7.70 x 7.60, depth not measurable due to mounting, 8.10 x 7.90 x 4.70 mm and 12.10 x 7.35 x 3.75 mm as well as 8.80 x 7.50, depth not measurable due to mounting, 8.20 x 7.60 x 5.10 mm and 11.30 x 7.60 x 4.10 mm, stones calculated to weigh approximately 3.40, 3.80, 3.60 and 4.00 carats; emeralds on the necklace stated to measure between 8.40 x 7.70 x 3.30 mm and 14.00 x 10.40 x 6.00, total emerald weight calculated to be approximately 50.00 carats, the rich lively green colours are very well matched, typical crystal inclusions, some surface reaching, with some scratches and abrasions; for further information on the stones, please refer to the three Gübelin reports. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 92.00 - 95.00 carats, as gauged and graded in mounting, on average J-K colour and VS-SI clarity (few I). Clasp secure. Normal signs of wear to the metal, scratches and indentations consistent with age and wear. Well preserved and 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 HOUSE OF THURN UND TAXIS

The origins of the Princely House of Thurn und Taxis can be traced back to the Middle Ages. The family fortune was based on the founding of one of Europe's first, and most successful, postal systems. The Thurn und Taxis family is one of the wealthiest in Germany.

Schloss St. Emmeram, in Regensburg, for over 200 years the seat of the dynasty, dates to the 7th century and was originally a Benedictine abbey. At present it has over 500 rooms, more than Buckingham Palace.

Upon the death of Prince Johannes in 1990, the title passed on to his son, Prince Albert.