GOLD, ENAMEL, GEM-SET AND PEARL NECKLACE, PROBABLY BY ERNESTO RINZI, CIRCA 1865

In the Renaissance revival style, the necklace composed of a series of polychrome enamel plaques, enamelled to the front and back, alternately set with table-cut rubies, sapphires and emeralds to a double pearl row connection chain, suspending a similarly set polychrome enamel pendant of Greek cross design with a glazed locket to the reverse, length approximately 475mm, pendant detaches to be worn separately, fitted case with applied silk plaque by Philips 23 Cockspur St London.

 Cf: Geoffrey C. Munn, Castellani and Giuliano, Revivalist Jewellers of the Nineteenth Century, London 1984, p.174 and 176

Signs of wear consistent with age of the piece. Small deficiencies to the enamel. Well matched stones in colour with slight abrasions to the surface. The pearls are well matched with a medium lustre on average. Delicate piece. In overall 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."

Ernesto Rinzi (1836 - 1909) was brought to London by the renowned jeweller Alessandro Castellani in the 1860s.  Having started his own business, Rinzi advertised as a manufacturing goldsmith and jeweller and made several caskets in the Neo-Renaissance taste, one of which was presented to the Duke of Edinburgh.  His creations are recognised as 'artistic works in a very superior style', and his Renaissance style jewels are particularly rare, usually exhibiting fine enamel work.