Pair of very important ruby and diamond pendent ear clips

Each suspending a cushion-shaped ruby, weighing 11.46 and 11.64 carats respectively, set within a surround of cushion-shaped and circular-cut diamonds, to a surmount of foliate design embellished with similarly cut and rose diamonds, screw back fittings.

HSH Princess Max Egon zu Hohenlohe-Langenburg (1892-1990). These earrings were assembled in 1921 and given as a gift by her parents Trinidad von Scholtz Hermennsdorff, Duchess of Parcent, and Ambassador Manuel de Yturbe of Mexico, on the occasion of her wedding.

Thence by descent to the present owner.

Rubies of Burmese origin cannot be imported into the US. This piece contains rubies of Burmese origin and therefore cannot be imported into the US. Please contact the jewellery department for further information or see our Important Notices. Mounted in silver-topped gold. Rubies with typical crystal inclusions visible under close inspection, few surface reaching, some scratches and abrasions on the surface, some nicks and cavities on the girdle and pavilion, for further information please refer to the SSEF report. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 8.00 - 9.00 carats, on average of H-J colour and VS-SI clarity (few I), as gauged and graded in mounting. With screw fittings to detach the lower part of the earring as well as to add this part onto other jewels. Signs of normal wear to the metal, scratches consistent with use and age. The overall condition is very good.
"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."

Natural Burmese rubies which are of fine colour and have been spared any enhancement are amongst the rarest of all gemstones. Once their weight exceeds ten carats and they are presented as a perfectly matched pair then they enter the realm of the truly exceptional. Mix in an illustrious Noble provenance and you have a  jewel worthy of the highest esteem.