Lot 369
  • 369

SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND PENDANT NECKLACE, HUNT & ROSKELL, LATE 19TH CENTURY

Estimate
60,000 - 80,000 GBP
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Description

Designed as a rivière composed of graduated cushion-shaped diamonds in pinched collet settings, suspending an open work pendant of oval outline, set with cushion-shaped diamonds and an oval sapphire weighing approximately 11.8 carats, to an additional detachable pendant set with a pear-shaped sapphire weighing approximately 6.4 carats within a border of cushion-shaped diamonds, length approximately 450mm, original fitted case stamped Hunt & Roskell, late Storr & Mortimer.

Condition

Accompanied by GCS report no. 80239-25, stating that the oval cushion-shaped sapphire measuring approximately 16.0 x 10.2 x 7.8mm and weighing approximately 11.8 carats is of Burmese origin, and the pear-shaped sapphire measuring approximately 16.3 x 9.7 x 5.8mm and weighing approximately 6.4 carats is of Sri Lankan (Ceylon) origin, each with no indications of heat treatment. Unsigned. Estimated total diamond weight in pendant approximately 8.00-10.00 carats, estimated to be approximately G-K colour, VS-I clarity on average. Estimated total diamond weight in rivière approximately 15.00-18.00 carats, largest diamond measuring approximately 6.6 x 6.5 x 3.8mm, calculated to weigh approximately 1.09 carats, estimated to be approximately I/J colour, VS2-SI1 clarity, remaining diamonds mixed colours and clarities. Overall dimensions of pendant approximately 9.7mm. Gross weight approximately 56.6 grams. Overall in good condition, commensurate with age.
"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.
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."

Catalogue Note

Accompanied by a gemmological report.

Hunt & Roskell were prominent jewellers and silversmiths throughout the 19th century. The firm was founded in 1819 by Paul Storr, who had worked as a silversmith for the renowned former Crown Jewellers Rundell, Bridge & Rundell. The firm underwent many changes of name throughout its lifespan, as referenced on the box accompanying the present lot - initially trading under his own name, Storr joined the jeweller John Mortimer to form Storr & Mortimer (1822-38). Storr was then succeeded by his assistant John Samuel Hunt and his son in turn, and the firm traded under the name Mortimer & Hunt until 1843. Finally, the watchmaker Robert Roskell joined the firm, becoming Hunt & Roskell between 1843  and 1897).

From their premises at 156 New Bond Street and their workshop in Clerkenwell, Hunt & Roskell provided jewellery, watches and silverware to an elite clientele, participating in the Great Exhibition of 1851, as well as exhibitions in New York (1853) and Paris (1867), and gaining a Royal Warrant from Queen Victoria. The firm was eventually purchased by J.W. Benson in the closing years of the 19th century, and continued trading as Hunt & Roskell Ltd, closing its doors for the final time in 1965, after nearly 150 years in operation.