Yellow sapphire and diamond brooch, Verdura

Designed as a bombé heart set with oval yellow sapphires and brilliant-cut diamonds, accented with a stylised ribbon bow of rope twist design, mounted in yellow gold,

Stamped 750 and pt 950 for gold and platinum. Signed Verdura. Total diamond weight approximately 0.80 carat, G-I colour, VS-SI clarity, as gauged and graded in the mount. Sapphires with typical crystal inclusions noticeable with the aid of a 10x lens, well matched in colour. Light scratches to the metal consistent with wear, in very 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."

One of the 20th Century's most innovative designers, Fulco di Verdura was born into an aristocratic and eccentric Sicilian family in 1898. As a child he was surrounded by lush gardens, fruit trees and a variety of animals that fired his imagination and would continue to inspire him throughout his life. After a few years in Paris designing jewellery for Coco Chanel, Verdura decided to try his luck in America, armed with a list of social contacts. In 1939, encouraged by Cole and Linda Porter, he opened his first salon on Fifth Avenue in New York. Entirely by word of mouth, as he did not advertise, Verdura could count the Duchess of Windsor, Diana Vreeland, Clare Booth Luce, Marjorie Merriweather Post and Daisy Fellowes, as well as many stars of stage and screen, as devoted clients.  Today the legacy of Verdura continues at 745 Fifth Avenue where owner Edward Landrigan runs the salon in the manner consistent with Verdura's own philosophy.

The wrapped heart is a classic Verdura design. An example in cabochon rubies and diamonds is illustrated in The Master Jewelers, edited by Kenneth Snowman, p. 228