Natural pearl, gem set and diamond pendant featuring The 'Staatholder Pearl'. Photo Sotheby's

The baroque-shaped natural pearl measuring approximately 27.40 x 20.45 x 14.40mm, suspended from a surmount set with variously cut rubies and diamonds, decorated with black enamel, from a multi-strand seed pearl sautoir, length approximately 820mm. Estimation 40,000 — 60,000 CHF

Accompanied by SSEF report no. 73571, stating that the pearl was found to be natural, saltwater.

The baroque-shaped pearl was named after Prince Frederick Henry of Orange (1584-1647), Staatholder of the Netherlands. By family tradition, it is understood that this pearl was inherited by his daughter Princess Henriette Catherine who wore it on the day of her marriage to Prince George II of Anhalt-Dessau (1627-1693), in 1659. The small cross on the surmount refers to the late Prince Frederick, who died it 1647.

The 'Staatholder Pearl' continued to be worn by the subsequent brides in the family including the present owner's mother, Duchess Edda Charlotte, at her wedding in 1929, and the present owner's wife, Princess Corinna, at her wedding in 1960. According to family tradition, the 'Staatholder Pearl' guarantees a long and happy marriage.

Sotheby's. Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels. Genève, 13 mai 2014 - http://www.sothebys.com/