Pair of ruby and diamond pendent earrings, 1970s

Each of chandelier design, suspending pear-shaped drops collet-set with a rubies, further set with circular-, single-cut and rose diamonds, post and hinged back fittings.

Donna Simonetta Colonna, Duchessa di Cesarò (1922-2011) was an international style icon and fashion designer. Among her many clients were Audrey Hepburn and Jacqueline Kennedy and her designs were featured in the films of Federico Fellini, including La Dolce Vita. She received many honours and awards, and was a member of the New York Dress Institute’s Hall of Fame after appearing on their list of the ten best-dressed women for five consecutive years. She was honoured with a retrospective exhibition of her work, Simonetta: The First Lady of Italian Fashion, at the Palazzo Pitti, Florence, in 2008. The jewels which she chose to complement her beautiful dresses were always of the highest quality such as the magnificent pair of fancy vivid blue and white diamond earrings by Bulgari, which were sold together with other jewels from her collection, by Sotheby’s Geneva in November 2003.

Rubies of Burmese origin cannot be imported into the US. This piece may contain rubies of Burmese origin and therefore may not be able to be imported into the US. Certification of non-Burmese origin will be required before import of rubies into the US. Please see our Important Notices and contact the jewellery department for further information. Rubies well matched in colour, with typical crystal inclusions, few nicks and abrasions; two largest drops each set with an oval ruby and a ruby to fit the shape of the pear form. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 5.00 carats, on average of G-H colour and VS-SI clarity, as gauged and graded in mounting. Signs of normal wear to the metal, scratches consistent with use. 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.
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