Emerald, Diamond and Enamel Rosary, German, Late 17th Century

Composed of 70 emerald beads spaced by gold rondelles set with table-cut diamonds, suspending a pendant set with five double-cabochon emeralds and numerous table-cut diamonds, within gold surrounds applied with black and white enamel, length 17 inches including the pendant.

The Saxon Royal Family
Queen Maria Antoinette of Saxony, born Princess of Bavaria (1805-1877), married to King Friedrich August of Saxony (1797-1854), thence by descent to Prince Ernst Heinrich (1896-1971), third son of King Friedrich August III, the last King of Saxony. Formerly in the Grünes Gewölbe, Dresden.

In its original form, this rosary suspended an emerald pendant carved with the Annuncation, the reverse of which contained a particle of the True Cross inscribed Lig. S+.

In good condition overall. The emerald beads are a medium green color and are moderately included, but remain quite transparent. Typical surface-reaching inclusions and cavities. The cross pendant exhibits a good amount of enamel loss, but is in good condition for its age. There is adhesive residue surrounding the base of the center emerald, evidence of a previous repair. Also some solder/glue repair to one of the diamond-set lobes. One cabochon emerald is drilled through and filled, possibly originally used as some type of bead. The emeralds are moderately included, with typical cavities, nicking, abrasions and surface-reaching inclusions. Table cut diamonds are decorative in quality. There is no clasp on the necklace, so it must be slipped over the head. Some fraying of string at a couple of places. Accompanied by AGL report no. CS 52142 stating that the emeralds are of Colombian origin, clarity enhancement: insignificant to faint, type: traditional.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. 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. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Accompanied by AGL report no. CS 52142 stating that the emeralds are of Colombian origin, clarity enhancement: insignificant to faint, type: traditional.