18 Karat Gold, Opal, Sapphire and Garnet Brooch, Tiffany & Co., Designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany

Centering a round black opal measuring approximately 18.5 mm, within an openwork plaque set with numerous round sapphires, demantoid garnets and spessartite garnets, the reverse of the opal decorated with scrollwork flourishes, signed Tiffany & Co.; circa 1920. With signed box.

Sotheby's New York, Jewels From the Estate of William B. Dietrich Sold to Benefit the William B. Dietrich Foundation, December 9, 2010, lot 17.

In very good condition. The semi-translucent to translucent opal displays a strong, attractive play-of-color with blues and greens dominating. Evidence of crazing present throughout the opal, visible upon close inspection. The sapphires are predominantly medium-deep violetish blue and slightly included with some minor abrading to some of the facet junctions, only visible upon magnification. The demantoid garnets range from a medium to medium-light yellowish green and are slightly to moderately included. The spessartite garnets are a medium slightly yellowish orange and moderately included. Signed on an applied plaque on the reverse. Dimensions approximately 2 1/4 x 1 1/8 inches.
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.Certificates of Authenticity: Various manufacturers may not issue certificates of authenticity upon request. Sotheby's is not under an obligation to furnish the purchaser with a certificate of authenticity from the manufacturer at any time. Unless the requirements for a rescission of the sale under the Terms of Guarantee are satisfied, the failure of a manufacturer to issue a certificate will not constitute grounds to rescind the sale. Gemological Certificates and Reports: References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemological laboratories are provided only for the information of bidders, and Sotheby's does not guarantee and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. Please also note that laboratories may differ in their assessment of a gemstone (including its origin and presence, type and extent of treatments) and their certificates or reports may contain different results.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.