Emerald and diamond bracelet of the Maharani of Karurthala, circa 1925

Designed as a wide open work band of palmette and scroll design, collet-set at intervals with cabochon emeralds, millegrain-set with circular- and single-cut diamonds, mounted in platinum, French assay marks, case by Henri Lyon et ses fils, 12, Rue de la Paix, Paris. length approximately 184mm. Est. 60,000—95,000 CHF

Provenance: Formerly the property of Anita Delgado, fifth wife of Maharaja Jagatjit Singh of Kapurtala

NOTE: The life of Anita Delgado is a fairy tale come true.

Born in Spain in 1890 to a rather modest family of restaurateurs, this breathtaking beauty caught the eye of the Maharaja Jagatjit Singh of Karurthala while she was dancing the flamenco in a Madrid nightclub. It was love at first sight for the Maharaja. The two married and went to live in lavish splendour in India.

Her adoring husband showered her with precious jewels, several of which were designed by the best European jewellers. The Maharani loved to wear them, and with her charm and legendary beauty, became something of an International sensation

The fairy tale did not last, however. The two divorced and she returned to Europe with her jewels, continuing to live a fabulous life in the beau monde until her death in 1962.

Sotheby's. Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels And A Celebration of Taste and , Magnificent Jewels from a Private Collection. 12 May 09. Geneva www.sothebys.com photo courtesy Sotheby's.