Amethyst and Diamond Necklace, circa 1900

The foliate garlands decorated with 5 hexagonal amethysts set as swing centers within circular wreaths, alternating with pear-shaped scrolls, set with 13 old European-cut diamonds weighing approximately 8.50 carats, 69 old European-cut diamonds weighing approximately 10.00 carats and numerous smaller old-mine and rose-cut diamonds weighing approximately 5.00 carats, mounted in silver and gold, length 17 inches, 4 diamonds missing.  Together with a wood box of octagonal shape stamped on the lid: The Property of Her Majesty The Late Queen Alexandra. 

Sotheby's London, March 24, 1988, lot 188. A note following the description states that the necklace was purchased from Wartski in 1958 as part of the collection of jewels of Queen Alexandra. 

Tiaras, The Victoria and Albert Museum, London, March 21-July 14, 2002.  

Geoffrey C. Munn, Tiaras: A History of Splendour, pl. 96, p. 117.  The present necklace, when supported on a frame, may also be worn as a tiara. 

As noted, there are 4 diamonds missing, but the necklace is in otherwise good general condition with wear to the mounting commensurate with age. The diamonds are approximately near colorless and VS-SI clarity. The amethysts are a medium purple and eye-clean.
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.

Alexandra of Denmark (1844-1925) was Princess of Wales from 1863 until 1901 after which she became Queen Consort to Edward VII of the United Kingdom and also Empress of India. After the death of her Edward VII in 1910, she became the Queen Mother as both queen and the mother of the reigning monarch George V.