Spinel and diamond pendant-brooch, Tiffany & Co., circa 1900

The cushion-shaped red spinel weighing 48.52 carats, within a lacework frame of scalloped outline set with small round diamonds, mounted in gold and platinum, signed Tiffany & Co.  



 



This lot is accompanied by two invoices made out to James J. Hill from Tiffany & Co. for a "ruby spinel" and  a "setting spinel with diamonds" dating from December 1902 and January 1903 respectively.



 

The spinel is a deep brownish red color and slightly to moderately included. Minor abrasions and chipping to the surface of the stone. The diamonds are of decorative quality. Signed Tiffany & Co. on the reverse of the frame encircling the spinel. Fitted with a retractable pendant loop as well as a brooch fitting. In good condition overall.
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.

James J. Hill (1838-1916) known as "The Empire Builder" was one of the foremost figures of America's Gilded Age. Born in Ontario, he moved to St. Paul at age 17 where he first worked for a steamboat company on the Mississippi and Red rivers. Learning all aspects of the transportation business, he later branched out into a broad range of other industries including coal and iron ore mining, agriculture, milling, finance and banking. Hard working, intelligent and a good leader, he had an uncanny ability to predict the future of business. In 1878, Hill purchased, along with several other investors, the nearly bankrupt St. Paul and Pacific Railroad. Deciding that the future lay in a transcontinental railroad, he worked tirelessly to expand his line north to Canada and west across the Rocky Mountains. The Great Northern Railway, as it was renamed in 1890, was one of James Hill greatest achievements and one that he considered the "great adventure" of his life. 

At the time of his death, James J. Hill was one of the wealthiest men in America having amassed a personal fortune estimated at $63 million. His collection of artwork forms the core of the European paintings collection in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. He also collected jewelry and gems, such as the impressive red spinel offered here, as presents for family members and for investment. His home on Summit Avenue in St. Paul is now a National Historic Landmark.