Lot 434
  • 434

A Magnificent Platinum and Diamond Sautoir Necklace with Lavalliere Pendant, Cartier, New York, 1924

Estimate
750,000 - 1,000,000 USD
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Description

  • platinum and diamond
Designed as a series of openwork oval and bell-shaped  links set with 13 old European-cut and cushion-shaped diamonds weighing approximately 37.75 carats, centering a larger cushion-shaped diamond weighing approximately 4.65 carats, supporting a lavalliere pendant set with 7 cushion-shaped and old European-cut diamonds weighing approximately 37.05 carats, length 15½ inches, signed Cartier, numbered 2419263; together with a length extender of a later date set with 13 cushion-shaped and old European-cut diamonds weighing approximately 22.30 carats, length 12¼ inches, separated into three segments, the necklace and length extender further set with smaller old mine and single-cut diamonds weighing approximately 18.60 carats.

Condition

In good overall condition with gentle surface wear to the mounting commensurate with age. The necklace is beautifully constructed and spectacular when worn. Approximately 27 1/2 inches at its greatest length and approximately 15 1/2 inches at its shortest length. A segment measuring approximately 4 1/2 inches may also be removed from the necklace to allow for a length of approximately 23 inches. As noted in the catalogue, a extension of approximately 12 inches was later added to the necklace. The larger old European- and antique cushion-shaped diamonds are predominantly I-J color with some K color examples as well as some G - H color examples. Clarity predominantly VS-SI with some VVS examples; some chipping to the girdles. Abrading to the pavilion facet junctions on several of the diamonds on the pendant. The cushion-shaped diamond at center presents an extremely subtle pink color and is approximately SI clarity due to chipping. The largest diamond anchoring the pendant weighs approximately 7.35 carats. A "map" providing carat weights of the larger diamonds is available upon request. The smaller diamonds are approximately near colorless and decorative in quality. Signed on the clasp. Fitted with a safety clasp. Please note this piece is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity no. GE2011-131 from Cartier. The necklace may be worn in a variety of configurations, both with and without the pendant. WITH PENDANT: The section incorporating the pendant measures 9 inches and terminates in the "female" end of the main clasp. Three additional sections may be added: A 2-inch section composed of smaller bellflower links terminating in the "male" end of the clasp. This section alone is too short to create a wearable necklace. A 12-inch section terminating in a foldover clasp. A 4 1/2-inch section terminating in a foldover clasp. Because the 2-inch section with the "male" end must be used to create a workable piece, necklaces measuring 15 1/2, 23 1/2 and 27 3/4 inches may be created. When the necklace is worn at 15 1/2 inches (as shown on page 224 of the catalogue) the main clasp is centered, making the left and right sides of the necklace mirror images. When the necklace is worn at longer lengths, the main clasp will be off-center (as shown on pages 220-221) and the left and right sides of the necklace will not be mirror images. WITHOUT PENDANT: The 12-inch section functions as a choker on a slender neck. The 4 1/2-inch section may be added to create a 16 1/2 collar.
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.

Catalogue Note

Accompanied by Certificate of Authenticity no. GE2011-131 from Cartier.