Group of gold, moonstone and sapphire jewelry, earclips and ring by Raymond Yard, circa 1945

Comprising a necklace, a bracelet, a pair of earclips and a ring, the necklace set with 28 cabochon moonstones, further decorated with small round sapphires, mounted in 14 karat gold, length 16½ inches, signed WAB; the bracelet set with 16 cabochon moonstones, framed by small round sapphires, mounted in 14 karat gold, length 7½ inches, unsigned; the earclips set in the center with 2 cabochon moonstones, decorated with small round sapphires, framed by scrolling gold ribbons, signed Yard; the ring set with an oval cabochon moonstone, flanked by small round sapphires, size 6, signed Yard.

The necklace set with 28 moonstones measuring approximately 7.2 mm., decorated with 7 round sapphires, signed WAB which is possibly the mark for Allsopp-Steller, Inc. The bracelet set with 16 moonstones measuring approximately 18.2 by 8.6 to 10.1 by 6.0 mm., and 20 round sapphires. The earclips set with 2 moonstones measuring approximately 10.7 by 10.6 mm., and 6 round sapphires. The ring set with a moonstone measuring approximately 19.2 by 11.2 mm., and 6 round sapphires. All pieces in good condition. Earclips and ring signed Yard.
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.

Raymond Yard (1885–1964) began his career in fine jewels at the age of thirteen as a door boy at Marcus & Co. In 1922 he opened his own shop at 522 Fifth Avenue where his first commission was a Rockefeller wedding.  His business was an instant and continued success, and discretion was his hallmark.  Even with little to no advertising and making clients wait to obtain the perfect stone to complete a jewel, Yard was able to attract several elite New York families, including the Woolworths, DuPonts, Flaglers and Havemeyers.  After sixty years of business, Yard offered his company to three of his employees for a down payment of ten thousand dollars each.  With some difficulty, each of them obtained the money but then later had it returned to them by Yard who had only wanted to test their desire for acquiring the company.  Donald H. Bartow, the father of the owner of the present lot, was one of the three employees who purchased the company from Raymond Yard in 1958.  Bartow remained an active partner until his retirement in 1979.