Gold, Sapphire and Diamond Ring

Centered by a sugarloaf cabochon sapphire weighing approximately 8.50 carats, flanked by six cushion-cut sapphires weighing approximately 1.00 carat, further accented by 38 rose-cut diamonds, size 5, five diamonds missing; circa 1900.

As noted, 5 small rose-cut diamonds are missing. The mounting in otherwise good condition with wear commensurate with age. The primary sapphire is medium violetish blue with minor to moderate color zoning and minor abrasions, but otherwise eye-clean. The cushion-cut sapphires are medium-light to medium-deep violetish blue, lightly included with moderate abrading. The rose-cut diamonds are near colorless to light gray and decorative in quality. Accompanied by AGL report no. CS 53572 stating that the sapphire is of Kashmir origin, with no indications of heating.
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.

Accompanied by AGL report no. CS 53572 stating that the sapphire is of Kashmir origin, with no indications of heating.

Hans Graf Yorck von Wartenburg courted Katja Pohl when they were teenagers; because he was of aristocratic descent and she was a mere peasant, his requests for her hand in marriage were rebuffed.  The day before Hitler invaded Poland on September 1, 1939, Hans returned to Katja’s home to present her with a document transferring all of his assets to her as she remained his one true love.  Having recently married a more socially suitable factory owner, Katja refused to see Hans upon his visit.

Eight days later, Hans mounted a white horse and deliberately rode towards the invading German Army; he was quickly gunned down by sniper fire.  Six weeks later, Katja was awarded this sapphire ring as a provision of Hans’s last will and testament.  The Germans soon forced Katja and her husband to flee their villa in darkness and this sapphire ring was the only possession that Katja chose to take with her in their hurried escape. 

Katja was widowed later during World War II and subsequently met and married Paul Jas, a career United States Military officer, from whose relatives this ring has come to auction. 

 Accompanied by the original letter awarding Katja Pohl this sapphire ring upon Hans’s death, in the original German and an English translation.