- 1761
Very Rare Pair of Sapphire and Diamond Pendent Earrings
Description
- sapphire, white gold, diamond
Condition
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.
Catalogue Note
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The Ephemeral Mines of Kashmir
A remote valley in the Padar region of Kashmir, amidst the Himalayan mountains between Pakistan and China, is home to one of the greatest gemstones in the world: Kashmir sapphires. The colour of this blue stone is so unique and distinct that was best described by the late Dr. Eduard Gübelin: soft and velvety, scintillating yet bland at the same time; it is a clear, deep blue, enhanced by a gentle admixture of kingly purple. The locality’s extreme altitude gave workers a maximum of ten weeks each year to unearth these heavenly treasures during 1881 to 1887. The short lifespan of the mines reaffirms the legendary reputation of sapphires from Kashmir. Not only are they some of the most beautiful and highly valued wonders of nature, but some of the most scarcely mined gemstones. Natural unheated Kashmir sapphires rank amongst the rarest gemstones on earth.