Among the fascinating examples in May will be a sensational pair of natural pearl and diamond ear clips by Alexandre Reza, which are being offered from the collection of a Lady of Title. Upon admiring the jewels, the Swiss Gemmological Institute said, “The pearls exhibit a remarkable size and weight of approximately 23 carats and 22 carats and are characterised by a matching regular drop shape... Assembling a matching pair of saltwater natural pearls of this size and quality can be considered rare and exceptional” (Lot 363, Estimate CHF 1,010,000-1,510,000 / US$ 1 – 1.5 million). 

The antique jewels to be offered in the Noble Jewels section will include a timeless diamond ‘rivière’ necklace dating from the mid-19th century. The stunning piece was formerly in the collection of Anna Murat, Princess de Poix (1841-1924) (Lot 357, Estimate CHF 810,000 – 1,410,000 / US$ 800,000 – 1,400,000). 

Dating from slightly later in the 19th century, this elegant emerald and diamond necklace would happily find its place alongside modern jewels thanks to its simple and stylish design. To great effect, it combines no fewer than nine covetable Colombian emeralds with collet-set old-cut diamonds (Lot 358, Estimate CHF 510,000-810,000 / US$ 500,000- 800,000). 

Also boasting fascinating noble provenance, this intricate sapphire and diamond necklace formerly belonged to the collection of a Roman princely family and was created in 1880. The beautiful piece is set with cushion-, oval- and pear-shaped sapphires (Lot 344, Estimate CHF 305,000 – 510,000 / US$ 300,000 – 500,000). 

Finally, a perfectly formed brooch from the ‘golden era’ of Cartier’s production is sure to fascinate collectors thanks to its combination of style and provenance. This jadeite, onyx, ruby and diamond pendant/brooch was made around 1925 and was formerly in the collection of Mona, Countess von Bismarck (1897 – 1983). The American-born socialite, fashion icon and famed beauty was married five times, including to 

Schönhausen, grandson of German ChancellorOtto von Bismarck. In 1933, Mona Harrison Williams (said at the time to be the richest man in America) and the Graf von Bismarck- became the first American to be named "The Best Dressed Woman in the World" by a panel of top couturiers including Chanel US$ 100,000 – 150,000). 

INTRICATE AND ICONIC SIGNED JEWELS
Offering a glimpse into the history of the world’s greatest jewellers, Sotheby’s is delighted to present a selection of signed jewels which illustrate some of the most creative and iconic designs by great jewellery houses including Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari and Lacloche. 

Lacloche Frères, originally a Spanish jewellery house, was best-known for its Art Deco jewellery designs, particularly following an impressive showing at the 1925 Exposition Internationale in Paris. Moving from Madrid to Paris before expanding also to London, the four Lacloche brothers were famous for their bold colours and geometric designs. This delightful ruby, onyx and diamond bracelet, which is accompanied by the original design drawing, was purchased at that 1925 exhibition by the grandfather of the present owner (Lot 374, Estimate CHF 310,000 – 510,000 / US$ 300,000 – 500,000). 

Cartier’s iconic ‘Big Cat’ designs are regarded by some as the celebrated brand’s jewellery most recognizable signature. In production starting from 1914, the design was adapted by Cartier’s enlightened Director of Haute Joaillerie, Jeanne Toussaint, and style icons including Daisy Fellowes, Barbara Hutton and Princess Nina Aga Khan famously fell under its spell. Admirers of the fabulous design will have the chance to acquire a number of pieces, including this pair of emerald, onyx and diamond earrings ‘Panthère’ (Lot 180, Estimate CHF 52,000 – 82,000 / US$50,000 - 80,000).