COLLECTION OF GEM-SET AND DIAMOND VANITY ITEMS, MAUBOUSSIN AND BOUCHERON, 1950s

Comprising: a powder compact embellished with collet-set cabochon rubies and step-cut diamonds, the background engraved with stylised foliate designs, measurements approximately 75mm x 75mm x 10mm, signed Mauboussin Paris, French assay marks, together with a lipstick case similarly-set with circular-cut rubies and diamonds, on a background engraved with stylised Fleur-de-Lys motifs, maker's marks, French assay marks, accompanied by a fitted case from Mauboussin, 3 Rue de Choiseul, Paris and two suede pochettes; accompanied by a powder compact of architectonic design highlighted with circular-cut diamonds, measurements approximately 65mm x 65mm x 10mm, signed Boucheron Paris.

Cf:  Mauboussin, Marguerite de Cerval, Editions du Regard, Paris, 1992, p. 184 for examples of similar pieces by Mauboussin. 

Powder compact stamped Mauboussin Paris and numbered 6875 to inner rim of case. Estimated total diamond weight approximately 1.12-1.16 carats, bright diamonds. Cabochon rubies well matched in colour. Some minor scratching to polished surfaces consistent with age and use. Would benefit from a clean to internal department. In very good condition. Lipstick holder stamped with maker's marks and French marks for gold to inner casing of lipstick case. Estimated total diamond weight approximately 0.56-0.58 carats. Rubies varying in hue, with very light to light tone and slightly brownish saturation of colour. Rubies heavily abraded to table facets, some with chips, would benefit from clean to internal department. In very good condition. Powder compact: Stamped Boucheron Paris to inner rim of case with indistinct marks to outer side panel. Evidence of tarnishing to polished surfaces of inner compartments. Estimated total diamond weight 0.20-0.24 carats, bright and lively diamonds. evidence of scratching to polished surfaces consistent with age and use. 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."