Diamond brooch, circa 1860

Designed as an open work stylised tied knot, set with cushion-shaped, circular-, single- and rose-cut  diamonds, centring on a principal cushion-shaped diamond weighing 5.30 carats, suspending articulated fringes set with pear-shaped and circular-cut diamonds mounted in cut-down collets, mounted in silver and gold, central stone detachable, some small rose-cut diamonds deficient.

Cf: Geoffrey Munn, Tiaras A History of Splendor, 1988, page 194, for a photograph of the Duchess of Gloucester taken by Cecil Beaton at St James Palace in 1961, where she is again portrayed wearing a similar brooch.

Diamonds estimated to weigh approximately 35.00 carats in total, mixed in colour and clarity. The central cushion-shaped diamond estimated to weigh approximately 5.80 carats in total, K-L colour, I clarity (gauged and graded in mounting). The pear-shaped diamonds estimated to weigh approximately between 1.20 and 1.70 carats respectively, generally I-K colour, SI-I clarity. Central stone detachable, pendent hook at the back. Scratches and tarnish to metal commensurate with age and wear. Marks of soft solder at the back. One element of bow slightly loose, would benefit to be secured by a professional jeweler. In 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."

In 1953 the Duchess of Gloucester was photographed in the year of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II by the photographer Dorothy Wilding.  In the photograph she is shown wearing a similar brooch.