An Art Deco Natural and Cultured Pearl and Diamond Necklace. Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2012

The fringe necklace designed as a series of pavé-set and baguette-cut diamond plaques suspending thirteen natural and four cultured drop-shaped pearls, measuring from approximately 8.45 - 8.95 x 11.50 mm to 14.30 - 14.90 x 18.50 mm, to the circular and baguette-cut diamond backchain, circa 1930, 17½ ins., with French assay mark. Estimate $500,000 - $800,000

With report 46682 dated 10 July 2006 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating that the analysed properties confirm the authenticity of these thirteen natural saltwater pearls and the identity of four cultured pearls (the two beaded cultured pearls are nos. 4 and 9 from clasp; the two beadless cultured pearls are nos. 16 and 17 from clasp) 

Notes: Previously sold Christie's Geneva, Magnificent Collection of Jewels and Watches from a Royal House, 14 November 2006, lot 276, sold for $165,240.

Previously sold Christie's Geneva, Magnificent Jewels, 14 November 1985, lot 422, sold for $81,480.

Cf. Françoise Cailles, Merveilleuses Perles: Répertoire Raisonn des Perles Célèbres (Venice 2006), plate 138

Christie's. Magnificent Jewels. 16 October 2012. New York, Rockefeller Plaza