CULTURED PEARL AND DIAMOND NECKLACE

Composed of 27 cultured pearls measuring approximately 20.8 to 17.1 mm, completed by a boule-shaped clasp pavé-set with round diamonds, length 20¼ inches.

In good condition, with very minor scratches to the metal commensurate with light wear. Mounting tests as platinum. The diamonds, weighing approximately 7.50 carats, are approximately G-H color, VS clarity. The round to slightly off round cultured pearls are silvery white to creamy white, with soft to moderate rose and aubergine overtones, good luster, and minor to moderate pitting, some examples with minor wrinkled skin.
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.

A strand of pearls is a wardrobe essential. With the advent of the cultured pearl, made available by Mikimoto to a general jewelry-buying audience in the 1920s, pearls became the most important piece in a woman’s jewelry box, second only to her wedding ring. From a girl’s first gift of akoyas to a society darling's marble-sized collier, pearls are eminently tasteful and timeless.  Coco Chanel wore ropes upon ropes of them, while Grace Kelly highlighted her beauty with a single strand set high on the neck. And Jackie Kennedy’s famous three-row necklace, despite being simulated, set the standard to this day, worn with everything from a simple sweater to an Oleg Cassini evening gown. The present lot, a highly important strand of South Sea pearls, is exceptional in every respect: impressive size, a pure white body color, smooth skins and superlative luster. No collection is complete without a pearl necklace, and lucky is the woman who adds this to her trove.