Platinum and Diamond Necklace, Circa 1910

Of garland style set with old mine, old European-cut and rose-cut diamonds weighing a total of approximately 100.00 carats, two floret pendants detachable, length approximately 12½ inches, unsigned, three diamonds missing.  With a choker-necklace box signed Cartier.

Set with over 816 diamonds, most are approximately G to J color (some are K to M), VS to SI clarity (a few I). Three small rose-cut diamonds missing in the little coronet above the pendants, and a repair is evident at clasp. There are latter added screwholes on back where it once would have been worn as a tiara. With Cartier period choker-necklace box unassociated. In good condition. Please note that this necklace reputedly belonged to Nancy, Viscountess Astor. The necklace has been illustrated in Jewellery 1789-1910 by Shirley Bury, plate 392, and is shown being worn in a Cecil Beaton photo of Ana Inez Carcano, the first wife of John Jacob Astor, the son of Nancy Astor. Originally fitted with turquoise pendants, these are now absent. The necklace, which was kept in a box of the period, stamped Cartier, was purchased as is from Fred Leighton, who conveyed the provenance verbally.
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.

This necklace reputedly belonged to Nancy, Viscountess Astor.  The necklace has been illustrated in Jewellery 1789-1910 by Shirley Bury, plate 392, and is shown being worn in a Cecil Beaton photo of Ana Inez Carcano, the first wife of John Jacob Astor, the son of Nancy Astor.  Originally fitted with turquoise pendants, these are now absent.  The necklace, which was kept in a box of the period, stamped Cartier, was purchased as is from Fred Leighton, who conveyed the provenance verbally.