Lot 477
  • 477

Diamond tiara/necklace, 1880s

Estimate
145,000 - 285,000 CHF
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Description

  • silver, gold, metal, diamonds
Designed as a graduated row of lanceolated motifs set with circular-cut diamonds, alternating with lines of smaller collet-set diamonds, supported by a row of diamonds in box collets, length approximately 480mm, detachable into five sections measuring 205mm, 80mm, 70mm, 97mm and 10mm, together with a tiara frame.

Literature

Cf: Geoffrey C. Munn, Tiaras: A History of Splendour, Suffolk, 2001, pgs. 160-161 and 185 for similar examples of Russian fringe tiara/necklaces.

Condition

Mounted in silver and gold. Detachable into five sections measuring approximately 205mm, 80mm, 70mm, 97mm and 10mm, together with a metal tiara frame. Diamonds bright and lively estimated total weight approximately 50.00-60.00 carats. Estimated colours and clarities approximately I-K and SI on average, a few smaller stones I/included. Diamonds graduated in size from approximately 1.70 carats to 0.01 carats. Secure catch fittings, good articulation. Overall very good condition. Gross weight approximately 160 grams.
"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."

Catalogue Note

The 'Tiare Russe' draws its inspiration from kokoshniks, fan-shaped head ornaments modeled after the cockscomb which were originally part of Russian folk costume. Models in precious stones were worn by the Russian aristocracy beginning in the time of Catherine the Great. The fashion became popular in Western Europe, reaching its zenith in the second half of 19th century.

The proceeds from this lot will benefit the conservation of Alloa Tower by the National Trust for Scotland – Registered Charity SC 007410.