Impressive sapphire and diamond demi-parure, Mellerio dits Meller, circa 1870

Comprising: a necklace designed as a chain of eleven clusters each set with an oval sapphire within a cushion-shaped diamond border supporting cushion-shaped diamond swags and decorated to the front with three detachable drops, each set with an oval sapphire within a  border of cushion-shaped diamonds surmounted by a diamond ribbon bow motif and supporting three sapphire and diamond drops; and a pair of matching earrings, later screw fittings on earrings,  mounted in gold and silver, French assay marks and maker's marks, necklace length approximately 390mm, later fitted case by Mellerio dits Meller.

Tongue stamped with French assay and marks for gold, earrings with maker's marks for Mellerio dits Meller. Sapphires estimated to weigh approximately 160.00 - 170.00 carats in total: The three largest sapphires in drops estimated to weigh approximately 25,00, 11.70 and 10.70 carats respectively. Sapphires in chain, starting from tongue estimated to weigh approximately 3.10, 4.80, 4.40, 5.30, 6.70, 11.00, 5.50, 5.10, 4.10, 4.70, 2.60 carats respectively. The two largest sapphires in earrings estimated to weigh approximately 4.10 and 4.30 carats respectively. Total weight of remaining sapphires estimated to be approximately 47.80 carats. Sapphires slightly vary in colour from soft blue to bluish green, medium to strong colour saturation, fairly clean stones with some typical crystal inclusions, minor scratches and abrasion to facet junctions. Total weight of diamonds estimated to be approximately 62.00 carats, mixed in quality but generally K-M colour, VS-SI clarity (some I). Secure clasp with safety chain. The largest detachable drop can be worn as pendant. Minor marks of solder around some small link attachments. Minor tarnish and scratches to metal, signs of wear consistent with age and wear. All pieces are well preserved and 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."

According to Mellerio's archives, this parure was purchased by H.H Eugène, Prince de Ligne, Prince d'Amblise et d'Epinoy. The white leather fitted case stamped with a gold princely crown was made on the occasion of the marriage of H. H Princess Marie Suzanne de Ligne and H.S.H Prince Alexander von Thurn und Taxis, Duke of Castelduino.