Coral and Diamond 'Ballerina' Necklace and Matching Earclips, Van Cleef & Arpels, New York, 1997

The openwork collar decorated with a frieze of whimsical ballerinas, their flower-like skirts formed of carved coral in white, medium and deep coral hues, within borders of round diamonds accented at intervals with pear-shaped stones, the whole set with numerous round diamonds weighing approximately 48.50 carats and 31 pear-shaped diamonds weighing approximately 8.75 carats; the earclips, en suite, designed as paired dancers, set with 126 round diamonds weighing approximately 3.75 carats, all mounted in 18 karat gold, necklace length approximately 18 inches, signed Van Cleef & Arpels, numbered NY 61696 and NY 61697. With signed boxes for necklace and earclips. Estimate 60,000—80,000 USD - Lot Sold 170,500 USD

NOTE: The present necklace and earclips are contemporary interpretations of the iconic ballerina-motif jewels created by Van Cleef & Arpels in the 1940s. According to legend, the inspiration for the early ballerina brooches originated with Louis Arpels, son of the company's founder, who was an admirer of classical ballet and opera. A collar necklace of polished gold and diamonds, made in 1950, designed as a series of dancers with full, flower-like skirts, is illustrated by Sylvie Raulet, Van Cleef & Arpels, p. 123.

Sotheby's. Magnificent Jewels. 09 Dec 08. New York photos courtesy Sotheby's. www.sothebys.com