SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND RING

Centring on a cushion-shaped sapphire weighing 5.27 carats, to a mount accented with lines of brilliant-cut diamonds, size G, French assay marks.

Kashmir sapphires were first discovered as the result of a landslide between 1879 and 1882 in the Kudi valley near the hamlet of Sumjam in the Padar region of Kashmir in the Himalayas. Upon hearing of these superb gems, the Maharajah sent a regiment of sepoys to protect the mines. The first few years saw prolific mining for these fine gems and by 1882 they began to appear on the Indian market in Simla. Even in these early years, however, the recovery of these stones was exceedingly difficult due to the high altitude of the terrain, the inclement weather conditions and the fact that the mines were only accessible during the short summer months from July to September.

 

In 1887 the British sent the geologist T.D La Touche to the Kudi valley, who after an extensive survey, discovered that there were two mines. The original "old mine", which procured the finest gems, consisted of a series of shallow pits on the Northeast wall of the valley, and the "new mine", a trench located 100 metres south of the "old mine". Both mines were leased to C.M.P. Wright and the Kashmir Mineral Company in 1906, but after the discovery of limited fine gems and due to the poor weather conditions they ceased in 1908.

 

Since the time of their initial discovery the production of Kashmir sapphires has remained sporadic and their supply limited. Valued for their velvety blue colour with a greenish dichroism when viewed from the side, these sapphires sometimes appear milky due to minute liquid filled cavities or crystals within the stone, an appearance which is often described as "sleepy". These characteristics define a gem that is highly valued amongst collectors throughout the world.

Accompanied by a report form The Precious Stone Laboratory, no. 982416, stating that the sapphire weighing 5.27 carats presents no evidence of heat treatment and originates form Kashmir. French assay marks for 18 carat gold to underside of band. Estimated total diamond weight approximately 1.0 carat, bright, lively stones. Please note it is not possible to grade the stones due to the yellow gold mount. The sapphire weighing 5.27 carats a very rich intense velvety blue with even strong saturation of colour, very small nick to pavilion of stone. Mount heavily scratched and indented consistent with wear. In good condition.
"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."

Accompanied by a report form The Precious Stone Laboratory, no. 982416, stating that the sapphire weighing 5.27 carats presents no evidence of heat treatment and originates form Kashmir.