Lot 498: IMPORTANT SEED PEARL AND DIAMOND TIARA, CARTIER, CIRCA 1909

Designed as an open work Greek key band millegrain-set with circular-cut diamonds within an outer border of seed pearls, framing a central detachable old mine-cut diamond, inner circumference approximately 305mm, unsigned, later tiara frame, case stamped Cartier.

Mounted in platinum and gold, unmarked, unsigned. Cushion-shaped central diamond estimated to weigh approximately 3.30 carats, on average F-G colour, VS clarity, as gauged and graded in the mounting. Remaining diamonds weighing approximately 30.00 - 32.00 carats, bright and lively, on average G-I colour, VS clarity, as gauged and graded in the mount. Pearls well matched in colour, with good skin and luster. In overall very good condition. Tiara frame later added. Case stamped Cartier, overall good condition with some minor scuffs to edges commensurate with age and wear.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Cf.: Geoffrey C. Munn, Tiaras, A History of Splendour, London, 1988, pg. 199, plate 184, for an illustration of a Greek Key patterned tiara of similar design.

Cf.: For additional information about the sinking of the RMS Lusitania please refer to "Robert Paterson Lusitania" a web blog account of the final voyage written by a relative of Lady Allan.

Cf.: www.rmslusitania.info

Commissioned in 1909 from Cartier Paris by Sir Hugh Montagu Allan for his wife Marguerite Ethel, née Mackenzie, and taken with her on the ill fated final voyage of the RMS Lusitania in 1915. The tiara was with Lady Allan's maids when they were rescued from the shipwreck. Thence by family decent.