Gold, Silver, Turquoise, Enamel and Diamond Pendant-Necklace, Circa 1860

Supporting a heart-shaped locket set with old mine and single-cut diamonds weighing approximately 4.85 carats, the front applied with blue enamel, the locket opens to reveal a glazed compartment containing a four-leaf clover.  The caseback enhanced with foliate engraving, the interior bearing the later-added inscription 'To my Godchild Rachel, on her wedding day, Marjorie Cecil Rachel Battye, November 12th, 1898', supported by a gold necklace studded with turquoise cabochons measuring approximately 2.8 mm., length 16 inches.  With a fitted box signed Carrington & Co., 130 Regent St. W.

Piece is in very good condition given its age. The only losses to the enamel are at the meeting point between the diamond set leaf and the necklace ends, and a minor one at the tip of the heart. There are also some scratches on the top of the heart. The turquoise is an even deep sky blue and very well matched. Diamonds are approximately J to L color, SI to I clarity, with very nice brilliance. It bears a substantial heft and has very fine engraved detail and workmanship throughout.
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.

The touching inscription and four-leaf clover within the locket served as a hopeful token of lasting love and affection. At the time of their marriage, Rachel Battye and her husband, Captain George Percy Brasier-Creagh were beginning a life together through the auspices of the British military in Rawalpindi, India, where George Percy served as an aide to the British Viceroy. Their love, tragically, would be short-lived. On December 29, 1899, Rachel passed away in India. Shortly thereafter, her husband commanded a cavalry unit in the Second Boer War, where he succumbed to wounds suffered in battle.