An emerald and diamond necklace, by Harry Winston. Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2009
Composed of two opposing undulating lines of graduated rectangular-cut emeralds and diamonds, enhanced by circular-cut diamond or emerald trim, tapering to a point, set with a detachable pendant comprising two modified pear-shaped emeralds, suspending a pear-shaped emerald, weighing approximately 18.95 carats, within a graduated circular-cut diamond surround, mounted in platinum, 1956,, 16¾ ins., accompanied by two brooch fittings, in a Harry Winston black leather case. Signed Winston for Harry Winston. Estimate $500,000 - $700,000 - Price Realized $950,500
With report CS 36051 dated 17 January 2003 from the American Gemological Laboratories stating that it is the opinion of the Laboratory that the origin of this emerald would be classified as Colombia. It is the opinion of the Laboratory that this emerald exhibits evidence of faint clarity enhancement (Oil Type Treatment/Canadian Balsam)
Literature: Laurence S. Krashes, Harry Winston: The Ultimate Jeweler, Harry Winston, Inc., New York, 1984, page 217
Notes: Glamourous and important, this necklace by Harry Winston illustrates the sensibility of 1950s jewels. At the time, necklaces were often designed to sit high on the neck as the perfect compliment to the plunging décolletages of the era's evening gowns. Jewelry designs were fluid and feminine, with detachable parts that permitted day-to-night versatility. In addition to his reputation as "King of Diamonds," Harry Winston is credited with revolutionizing jewelry manufature and design. Without the distracting weight of excess metal, his finely-crafted creations set the standard for elegant simplicity.
Christie's. Jewels: The New York Sale & The Annenberg Diamond 21 October 2009 New York, Rockefeller Plaza.