Platinum, Natural Pearl and Diamond Necklace, Cartier

Of graduated design, composed of 77 variously-shaped natural pearls measuring approximately 9.2 to 3.0 mm, the clasp set with baguette and emerald-cut diamonds weighing approximately .60 carat, length 17½ inches, signed Cartier, numbered 3016180.

In fair to good condition overall. The pearls are a creamy golden hue, with overtones of pink and peach, with waxy to good luster. The 17 larger center pearls are more spherical and present better luster and smoother skins than the smaller slightly barrel-shaped pearls toward the back of the strand. Many of those smaller pearls are peeling and/or cracked, especially at the drill holes, probably from long-term wear on an unknotted strand. The strand is currently knotted, but the endcaps are tarnished near the clasp. Diamonds in the clasp are approximately G-I color and VS-SI clarity. Signed Cartier and numbered on the side of the clasp, above the safety clasp hinge. Accompanied by GIA report no. 1176192627 stating that the pearls are natural, saltwater, also with original 1985 report, stating no indications of treatment.
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 GIA report no. 1176192627 stating that the pearls are natural, saltwater.

The pearls offered here were a wedding gift to Sheila Crawford Burton in the late 1930s. Burton was a New York debutante and in 1938, rather than having a traditional coming out party, she took a trip around the world with her parents. It was on this trip that she met her husband Captain William Yeldham, an English nobleman. Sheila led a worldly life; her early days were spent on Paradise Island, where her family was one of the multi-millionaires who started the 'Porcupine Club,' and her post-marriage years were spent in both New York and London. During World War II she was one of only four women in Winston Churchill's Special Observer Group, and served during the London Blitz of 1940.