Beschreibung:

Rare and Exceptional Platinum, Silver, Diamond and Natural Pearl Pendant Topped by a looped ribbon set with 23 old-mine cut diamonds approximately 2.00 cts., suspending 2 drop-shaped slightly brownish gray pearls approximately 12.90 to 12.95 x 23.85 mm. and 12.90 to 13.05 x 22.45 mm., with silver and rose-cut diamond-set caps, with later pendant mounting circa 1920. With fitted box. With SSEF report no. 72885 stating that the pearls are saltwater natural, with no indications of artificial colour modification. With SSEF appendix letter stating that the "... matching pair of natural pearls of this size and quality is very rare and exceptional, and thus this pair of pearls can be considered a very exceptional treasure of nature." The lot is accompanied by a note stating in ink: History of Empress Eugenie's Black Pearls & Necklace Brought to this country by George Crocker. Kept by his wife & his daughter Mrs. Philip Kearny _ Emma Rutherford. These in possession of Henry R. Benjamin for his eldest daughter. With an additional notation in pencil: Given to Dorothy R. Benjamin to wear on Xmas 1925 and hold until Anne R. B. is of age. HRB. A notation on the reverse states in ink: Sometime must be put on top of box neck (necklace?) pearls in Guaranty Safe Deposit box 789. So careful of keys. And in a different hand, below the fold: Roger The Crocker Family George Crocker (1856-1909) was the son of Charles Crocker, who founded the Central Pacific Railroad in California and left a fortune
Pearl on left: medium brownish-gray, overall even color, slightly lighter at tip, small bump on front, some tiny bubbles, overall clean & smooth, symmetrical round shape on front and reverse, thick nacre, very good luster. Pearl on right: medium brownish-gray with deeper gray hue at tip, several tiny bubbles, overall clean & smooth, thick nacre, very good luster. Diamonds: H-I-VS-SI. Good condition. Length 2 3/4".