Bismarck Sapphire Necklace

Bismarck Necklace (crop)

Bismarck Sapphire Necklace

The Bismarck Sapphire Necklace is a renowned piece of jewelry that features a striking 98.6-carat sapphire at its center. This magnificent necklace is a significant example of early 20th-century jewelry design and craftsmanship, combining the deep blue sapphire with an intricate setting of diamonds. The necklace is named after Countess Mona von Bismarck, an American socialite who was known for her exquisite taste in fashion and jewelry. The Countess received the necklace as a gift from her husband, and it quickly became one of her most cherished pieces.

History

The Bismarck Sapphire Necklace was created in the 1930s by the renowned jewelry firm Cartier. The centerpiece of the necklace is a large, cushion-cut sapphire that was sourced from Sri Lanka, a country known for producing some of the finest sapphires in the world. The sapphire is set in platinum and surrounded by round and baguette-cut diamonds, which add to the necklace's elegance and brilliance.

After the Countess's death, the necklace was donated to the Smithsonian Institution, where it became part of the National Gem Collection. Today, it is on display at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C., where it continues to captivate visitors with its beauty and craftsmanship.

Design and Craftsmanship

The Bismarck Sapphire Necklace is a testament to the skill of Cartier's jewelers. The setting is designed to highlight the sapphire's rich color and clarity, with the diamonds arranged in a way that enhances the stone's brilliance without overshadowing it. The necklace's design reflects the Art Deco style that was popular at the time, characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and a focus on symmetry and balance.

Significance

The Bismarck Sapphire Necklace is not only a stunning piece of jewelry but also an important artifact that reflects the social and cultural history of its era. It is associated with one of the most glamorous figures of the early 20th century and represents the height of luxury and sophistication in jewelry design. The necklace's donation to the Smithsonian Institution ensures that it will continue to be appreciated by future generations as a work of art and a piece of history.

See Also

• Jewelry design
• Art Deco
• Sapphire
• Cartier Inc.
• Smithsonian Institution