Of identical design, one decorated on the openwork shell with 23 round diamonds weighing approximately 2.35 carats, the other with 23 round rubies, each with cabochon sapphire eyes, signed Cartier, Paris, maker's marks, assay marks.

Good condition with general surface wear to the mountings. The rubies are a lively slightly purplish medium red and lightly included to eye-clean. The diamonds are approximately G-H color, VS clarity. The diamond and ruby brooches are stamped (indistinctly) with serial numbers 016043 and 014703, respectively.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. 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. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Similar gem-set turtle brooches are illustrated in The Art of Cartier, The World of French Jewelry Art, catalogue of the exhibition held at the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum, 1995, p. 290, nos. 304, 305, 316 and 320.  A variety of turtle brooches are also illustrated by Nadine Coleno, Amazing Cartier, pp.50-51.