18 karat gold and gem-set vanity case, Suzanne Belperron, Paris, circa 1945. Photo Sotheby's

The polished gold case of lunette design pavé-set in the front with fancy-shaped rubies, sapphires, colored sapphires, emeralds, tourmalines, citrines, amethysts and peridots, may include some synthetic and simulated stones, the interior fitted with a mirror, removable lipstick case, and small compartment, gross weight approximately 109 dwts., measuring approximately 3½ by 2 3/8 by ¾ inches, maker's mark for Jules Lefevre, French assay marks.- Lot 281. Estimation 55,000-75,000 USD

LITTERATURE: c.f. Culme, John, and Nicholas Rayner. The Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor, New York: Vendome Press, 1987, p.132.

NOTE DE CATALOGUE: Together with a Certificate of Authenticity from Belperron stating that the colored stone and gold vanity case was manufactured in Paris between 1932 and 1958 from a design by Suzanne Belperron.

A similar compact by Belperron was sold in The Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor by Sotheby's in April 1987, lot 33

Sotheby's. Magnificent Jewels. New York | 18 avr. 2012, 10:00 AM www.sothebys.com