ARCHAEOLOGICAL-REVIVAL GOLD AND COLORED GLASS BEAD NECKLACE

Decorated with a fringe of gold leaves alternating with grape clusters composed of purple and green glass beads, suspended from a gold chain, gross weight approximately 45 dwts, length 16½ inches; circa 1880.

Collection of Brigadier General William Cary (1891-1978) and Lois (1896-1988) Crane, and thence by descent. Brigadier General Crane was a decorated veteran who, among other distinguished positions, served as the military attaché to the U.S. Ambassador in Japan in the 1930s, and became the Chief of Staff of the Southern Defense Command in 1942.

In very good condition given the circa date (1880). The springring clasp stamped 14K for 14 karat gold. The gold leaves with some small areas of tarnish and discoloration, visible under close inspection, a few leaves with overly bent tips. The glass grapes are medium violet to medium deep violetish purple and dark yellowish green, in good condition. Clasp opens and closes securely. A similar example was previously sold at Sotheby's New York, April 19, 2016, Magnificent Jewels: Starring The Shirley Temple Blue Diamond, Lot 59, for $100,000.
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.

Another necklace of similar design appears in the catalogue Castellani and Italian Archaeological Jewelry, The Bard Graduate Center, New York, November 2004-February 2005, no. 381, no. 201.