Diamond tiara, 1920s. Photo Sotheby's 2011

Designed as a graduated series of open work plaques of palmette, acanthus leaf and floral cluster motifs, pierced and millegrain-set with circular-, single-cut and rose diamonds, inner circumference approximately 260mm, frame circumference approximately 350mm, detachable, most probably the tiara was designed to be worn also as a collier de chien but presently no further fittings accompany this lot, French assay marks, two small stones deficient. Lot 287. Estimate 35,000 — 55,000 GBP. Lot sold 277,250 GBP

Property of a ducal house.

Literature: Cf: Geoffrey Munn, Tiaras a History of Splendour, London, 2002, page 154-155 and 192-193 where the where the lotus flower and honeysuckle tiaras are illustrated.

Notes: This tiara is highly reminiscent of the lotus flower and honeysuckle tiaras, both created by E.Wolff & Co. for Garrard.  The latter was created early 1914, with interlocking open work acanthus scrolls and highly stylised honeysuckle or palmette motifs.  These jewels are both in the collections of the British Royal family: the honeysuckle tiara is in the collection of their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

Sotheby's, Fine Jewels London, 13 Jul 2011