A natural pearl, sapphire and diamond sautoir
A natural pearl, sapphire and diamond sautoir. Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2013
The single-strand comprising one hundred and nineteen graduated natural pearls, measuring approximately 11.3 to 6.4 mm, interspersed by seed pearls and small imitation pearls, to the cushion-shaped sapphire and diamond cluster clasp, mounted in gold, 107.5 cm. Estimate: $258,930 – $356,028
Accompanied by report no. 67348 dated 21 March 2013 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating that 118 pearls are natural saltwater pearls and that 1 pearl is a natural freshwater pearl
Notes: By family tradition, these pearls were formerly in the collection of Empress Eugenie (1826-1920) and were passed down through several generations. In 1921, they were restrung by Chaumet to be worn at the wedding of a family member at which time seed pearls and small imitation pearls were strung between the larger natural pearls.
Christie's. MAGNIFICENT JEWELS. 15 May 2013. Geneva. www.christies.com