A superb antique Indian emerald, diamond and enamel sarpech. Photo Christie’s Image Ltd 2012

The articulated full sized turban ornament comprising three hinged central panels set with open backed vari-cut emeralds within table-cut diamond and yellow gold surrounds suspending three emerald bead drops, the tapering scroll aigrette in the form of an openwork flowerhead with a central hexagonal emerald to the graduated emerald and diamond surmount suspending an emerald bead, the head bands on either side set with open backed graduated emeralds and table-cut diamonds suspending an emerald bead fringe, the foiled diamond backs decorated with red and white enamel Mughal flowers, mounted in yellow gold, Deccan, mid-18th century, 36.5cm. Estimate: CHF670,000 - CHF950,000 ($718,687 - $1,019,033). Price Realized CHF4,451,000 ($4,717,173)

Accompanied by report no. 62138 dated 27 February 2012 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating that 78 emeralds are of Colombian origin, 1 is of Brazilian origin, with minor to significant amount of oil; and a letter indicating that the Sarpech can be considered a 'very exceptional treasure.' 

Christie's. MAGNIFICENT JEWELS. 16 May 2012. Geneva - www.christies.com