The Family Collection of the late Countess Mountbatten of Burma

Hennell

Rock crystal, emerald and diamond bracelet, 1929

Auction Closed

March 24, 08:41 PM GMT

Estimate

15,000 - 20,000 GBP

Lot Details

Description

Rock crystal, emerald and diamond bracelet

Hennell

1929

designed as a series of octagonal rock crystal links, connected by tonneau-shaped links set with calibré-cut emeralds and circular-cut diamonds, length approximately 190mm, signed Hennell

Signed Hennell. Estimated total diamond weight approximately 3.50-4.00 carats. Emeralds with some light surface wear and small chips, emeralds on clasp with noticeable larger chip. Rock crystal in good condition, some light wear to it beneath tonneau shaped links, but nothing to threaten durability. Width approximately 20mm, gross weight approximately 46 grams. Unassociated case stamped Boucheron. 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."

An examination of the Hennell archive reveals extensive sketches and leger notes, detailing stone breakdowns, manufacturing costs, clients names and price codes, with the entry for the present lot dating the design to December 1929; its bold geometric form, contrasting colours and use of carved rock crystal is typical of what was later to become known as Art Deco. The firm was established in 1736, quickly becoming one of London's foremost silversmiths, and towards the late 18th century begun producing jewellery. It was under the creative vision of designer Charles Bruno in the 1920s-30s that the company really reached its zenith, the style and quality rivalling international houses such as Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier and Boucheron and a client list reading like a who's who of high society, including the Russian Royal Family, British Nobility and the Astors, Vanderbilts and Rockefellers.