Composed of twelve strands of fire opal beads interspersed with gold rondelles bezel-set with round rubies, the clasp applied with green, red, blue and white enamel to suggest a pair of birds and foliate motifs, the reverse set with variously-shaped rubies, diamonds and paste, length 22½ inches.

In good condition. The faceted fire opal beads range from a soft yellowish orange to rich and fiery reddish orange and range from transparent to translucent with minimal inclusions. The rubies found in the Indian-style rondelles and clasps are medium pinkish to purplish red and decorative in quality, in-keeping with the style. The table- and rose-cut diamonds are near colorless and approximately SI to I clarity, with several presenting surface-reaching inclusions and cavities, also in-keeping with the style. The translucent green and red enamel and the opaque white enamel remains largely intact with a few minor losses along the sides of the clasps. The gem-set side of the clasp is further enhanced by opaque reddish orange enamel, possibly simulating coral. According to family, this piece was made by Fred Leighton.
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.Certificates of Authenticity: Various manufacturers may not issue certificates of authenticity upon request. Sotheby's is not under an obligation to furnish the purchaser with a certificate of authenticity from the manufacturer at any time. Unless the requirements for a rescission of the sale under the Terms of Guarantee are satisfied, the failure of a manufacturer to issue a certificate will not constitute grounds to rescind the sale. Gemological Certificates and Reports: References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemological laboratories are provided only for the information of bidders, and Sotheby's does not guarantee and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. Please also note that laboratories may differ in their assessment of a gemstone (including its origin and presence, type and extent of treatments) and their certificates or reports may contain different results.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.