The Family Collection of the late Countess Mountbatten of Burma

Pair of emerald, enamel and diamond cufflinks, early 20th century

Auction Closed

March 24, 08:41 PM GMT

Estimate

5,000 - 7,000 GBP

Lot Details

Description

Pair of emerald, enamel and diamond cufflinks

early 20th century

the circular terminals collet-set with a cabochon emerald, bordered by white enamel set with cushion-shaped diamonds, the oval backs with the lettering E L L E and 2 30 II

Connecting bars stamped 585. One emerald of sugarloaf cabochon shape, some surface reaching inclusions, the other cabochon of lower profile, more surface reaching inclusions and resultant cavities. Some losses to white enamel on one terminal (near diamond). Gross weight approximately 10 grams. Overall condition good.

"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."

Possibly a gift from Victoria Eugenie, Queen of Spain (1887–1969) to Lord Louis Mountbatten on the occasion of his marriage.

Amongst the wedding gifts received by Lord Louis Mountbatten were 'a pair of Diamond and emerald sleeve links a gift of the Queen of Spain' (The Times on the 18th July 1922), which are perhaps those here. Many of the gifts were from Royalty, reflecting Lord Mountbatten's relations and connections with the Royal Houses of Europe. These included Edward, Prince of Wales, his best man, who gave the groom a silver globe traced in coloured enamels of the tour both men had undertaken of India and Australia.