Pair of sapphire and diamond ear clips, Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co., 1960s

Each claw-set with a cushion-shaped sapphire to a stylised trifoliated surmount set with cicrcular- and brilliant-cut diamonds, signed Tiffany Schlumberger, the sapphire elements may be detached and replaced by a diamond set motif of sun design.

Stamped 750 for gold and Pt 950 for platinum and signed Tiffany Schlumberger. For further information on the sapphires please refer to SSEF report. Blue hue with good colour saturation, bright and lively stones. Some typical crystal inclusions noticeable with the aid of a 10x lens. Well matched in colour. The sapphire elements can be detached to be replaced by a diamond-set motif of sun design. Diamonds estimated to weigh approximately 4.00 - 5.00 carats in total, generally H-I colour (a few J), VS-SI. Minor tarnish and scratches to metal consistent with normal wear. 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."

Jean Schlumberger was born in 1907 into a family of prosperous textile manufacturers in Alsace. He knew from a young age that he wanted to work in the jewellery world, so in his early twenties he set out for Paris and in a short time was experimenting with jewellery design. He scoured the local flea markets and found porcelain flowers that he set with semiprecious stones. Famed fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli noticed his unique pieces and hired him to design buttons and costume jewellery for her boutique. His reputation soon spread and he immediately had an impressive list of trend setting international clients including Daisy Fellowes and the Duchess of Windsor. Fashion legend Diana Vreeland was a close friend and lifelong supporter of Schlumberger. One of his splendid creations was a jewelled suit of armour entitled 'Trophy', which he designed especially for her.
After serving seven years in the Free French Forces under General Charles de Gaulle, Schlumberger relocated to New York, where, in 1956, Tiffany & Co. offered him the opportunity to run his own boutique on the mezzanine of their Fifth Avenue store. He was given total artistic freedom and unlimited funds and as a result was able to realize and express his unique vision. ' try to make everything look as if it were growing, uneven, at random, organic, in motion. I observe nature and find verve' as quoted in an article by Thomas Hoving, whose father was one time head of Tiffany, for the April 1982 issue of Connoisseur magazine.
Upon his retirement, Schlumberger moved to Paris where he lived until his death in 1987. His legend lives on however and his magnificent creations can still be found at Tiffany & Co worldwide.