GARNET AND ENAMEL BROOCH, VICTORIAN

Of geometric design and repoussé work scrolls, set with cabochon garnets, enhanced with red and green enamel, suspending a detachable pendent of similar design, inscribed "Belonged to dear Grandmama V. From Mama V.R. to Helena 25th May 1870".

Victoire, Duchess of Kent. Queen Victoria.

Helena, Princess Christian of Schleswig-Holstein.

Cf.: Shirley Bury, Jewellery: The International Era 1789-1910, Volume I, 1991, pg. 291, Colour Plate 71 for image and provenance: 'This piece was owned by the Duchess of Kent, who on her death in 1861 was found to have left her jewellery to her daughter Queen Victoria...the Queen gave it to her daughter Helena, Princess Christian of Schleswif-Holstein, as a twenty-fourth birthday present in 1870, she had it inscribed on the reverse: "Belonged to dear Grandmama V. From Mama V.R. to Helena 25th May 1870."'

Metal tested as yellow gold. Inscribed "Belonged to dear Grandmama V. From Mama V.R. to Helena 25th May 1870". Largest garnet estimated to weigh approximately 6.50 to 7.00 carats is of dark orangy-brown colour, strong saturation. Upon strong illumination and 10x magnification, there are needle-like inclusions commonly found in the material. Two garnets estimated to weigh approximately 2.50 to 3.00 carats and 0.20 to 0.50 carat respectively are of dark purplish-brown colour, medium to strong saturation. Few chips to enamel. Some tarnish to metal, mainly on the reverse, signs of wear to metal consistent with use and age. Overall in very 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. 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.Certificates of Authenticity: Various manufacturers may not issue certificates of authenticity upon request. Sotheby's is not under an obligation to furnish the purchaser with a certificate of authenticity from the manufacturer at any time. Unless the requirements for a rescission of the sale under the Terms of Guarantee are satisfied, the failure of a manufacturer to issue a certificate will not constitute grounds to rescind the sale. Gemological Certificates and Reports: References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemological laboratories are provided only for the information of bidders, and Sotheby's does not guarantee and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. Please also note that laboratories may differ in their assessment of a gemstone (including its origin and presence, type and extent of treatments) and their certificates or reports may contain different results.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.