NATURAL PEARL, RUBY AND DIAMOND 'BUTTERFLY' BROOCH, LATE 19TH CENTURY

Modelled as a whimsical butterfly, the body set with a natural pearl measuring approximately 11.08 - 12.47 x 18.23mm, to wings decorated by pear-, cushion-shaped and oval rubies amid a cushion-shaped and old-cut diamond-set background, the rubies and diamonds together weighing approximately 7.50 carats and 5.50 carats respectively, mounted in silver-topped gold.

Colour and Clarity: According to SSEF report, the pearl drop is natural, saltwater pearl, with no indication of colour modification. All rubies, according to AGL report, are natural, of Burmese origin, with no indication of heating and clarity enhancement. Please refer to the reports for details. In our opinion, the natural pearl is of medium light silver grey colour with noticeable rosè overtone, drop-shape, very good lustre with minor surface blemishes which are not seen in normal visual distance. Rubies are strong red colour, eye clean. Upon 10x loupe, some rubies have minor natural inclusions and surface abrasions on their crowns, commensurate with its age and use. The cushion diamond weigh almost one carat, L to M colours, SI clarity. Other smaller diamonds are about K to M colours, VS to SI clarity. Condition: Antique mount, with professional restoration, signs of wear to the mount, otherwise in good condition. IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please note that jadeite and rubies of Burmese origin and articles of jewellery containing jadeite or rubies of Burmese origin all less than 100 years old may not be imported into the US. The purchaser's inability to import any item into the U.S. or any other country as a result of these or other restrictions shall not justify cancellation or rescission of the sale or any delay in payment. Please check with the specialist department if you are uncertain as to whether a lot is subject to these import restrictions, or any other restrictions on importation or exportation.
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 SSEF report numbered 65653, dated 5 November 2012, stating that the pearl is natural saltwater pearl, with no indications of artificial colour modification. Also accompanied by AGL report numbered CS 53176, dated 22 January 2013, stating that the rubies are natural, of Burmese (Myanmar) origin, with no indication of heat enhancement.