Lot 606. A Fine Belle Époque Ruby and Diamond Pendant, Circa 1910. Estimate HK$ 200,000 - 500,000 (€ 22,000 - 55,000). © Bonhams 2001-2018
The central pear-shaped diamond within a calibré-cut ruby surround, suspended from a fine openwork cartouche of garland design, millegrain-set throughout with old brilliant-cut diamonds, further embellished with flowerheads highlighted with circular-cut rubies and old brilliant-cut diamonds, all suspending a marquise-cut diamond surrounded by graduated calibré-cut rubies, the detachable pendant surmount set with circular-cut rubies and old brilliant-cut diamonds, diamonds approximately 19.90 carats total, rubies approximately 8.80 carats total, a ruby later replaced, length 13.2cm, fitted case by Dlugatch.
Note: The Belle Epoque period of Western history dates from the end of the Franco-Prussian War in 1871 to the outbreak of World War I in 1914, running through the Third Republic of France.
Characterised by the peace, growth, prosperity and optimism associated with post-war periods, these were incubator years for innovation and new directions. A period of tremendous wealth, it is synonymous in jewellery with the use of platinum and garland style, nature-inspired designs and motifs and curvilinear forms.
Bonhams. RARE JEWELS & JADEITE, 27 May 2018, 14:00 HKT, HONG KONG, ADMIRALTY
