Diamond choker, 18th Century

Designed as a series of twenty one graduated panels, each set to the centre with a cushion-shaped diamond between lines of similarly-cut smaller stones, each in a closed back setting, mounted in silver, length approximately 270mm, the links numbered at the back.

Mounted in silver. Diamond weight difficult to estimate accurately due to the closed back mounting and the old cut shapes of some diamonds but may be in the region of approximately 40.00 carats, of mixed colours and clarities, in our opinion G-J colour on average some K, and VS-SI clarity on average, some I. The reverse of all but the panels at either end numbered from 1-19 (number 10 upside down). Scratches, indentations and slight discolouration to the mount consistent with age and wear. Threaded onto cord. Rare jewel, 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."

Until the discovery of diamond deposits in Minas Gerais, Brazil, in 1723, all diamonds came from India, specifically from the area known as Golconda. This remained the case until the next major discovery of diamond deposits in Southern Africa in the second half of the 19^th century. By 1800 jewellery design was changing rapidly due to huge social and economic changes in Europe following the French Revolution. The scarcity of diamonds at this period meant that most jewels set with diamonds in the 18^th century or earlier were broken up so that the stones could be used in new designs.  It is extremely rare for important diamond jewels such as these to have survived and they will be undoubtedly of great interest to any collector of exceptional antique jewels.