Gold necklace mounted with ten "Stuart crystal" mourning slides and buttons, 1690s and later

The fine gold chain suspending six oval mourning slides each containing a lock of hair applied with initials and winged cherubs and four mourning buttons, each containing a lock of hair applied with initials and winged cherubs, some with partial inscriptions to the reverse, length approximately 400mm.

Mounted in gold, all slides and buttons with later gilt metal plaques to the reverse, loop attachments and button fittings now deficient. Abrasions and dents to the reverse of all slides and buttons commensurate with age and wear, two with partial inscriptions to the reverse. Central slide with rock crystal cover later re-glued in with visible traces of glue on hair and one button below central slide with large chip to rock crystal, last slide to left of necklace with chip to rock crystal.
"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."