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Lot 9
A tourmaline and diamond pendant necklace, circa 1915
19 September 2017, 13:00 EDT
New YorkSold for US$25,000 inc. premium
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A tourmaline and diamond pendant necklace, circa 1915
of ornate fanciful design, centrally set with a rectangular-shaped emerald-cut tourmaline, weighing approximately 40.50 carats, within an openwork millegrain-setting, accented by old European-cut diamonds; estimated total diamond weight: 2.30 carats; mounted in platinum; length: 15 1/8in.
Footnotes
Accompanied by AGL report # 1085496, dated July 27, 2017, stating the tourmaline as: no indications of heat or clarity enhancement.
This necklace originally belonged to Gertrude Hill Gavin (1883 – 1961). Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, she was the 9th child of legendary railroad magnate and astute business man, James J Hill, "The Empire Builder", and Mary Mehegan. She grew up with a strong work ethic, where education, religion and philanthropy were emphasized.
Five years after graduating from Miss Spence's School in New York, she married Michael Gavin, in 1906, a Yale educated New York attorney, and settled in New York City. The Gavin's had additional homes on Long Island, New York as well as Boca Grande in Florida, and an apartment on Jekyll Island, Georgia. While Gertrude had a passion for the great outdoors – salmon fishing and hunting – she enjoyed a lively social life too. Her spirit for intellectual, artistic, and moral adventure are reflected in her generous philanthropic gifts, many of which centered on the Catholic Church. In 1924, she was decorated by the Pope as the first president of the National Council for Catholic woman. Understanding the importance of education, the Gavin's also created a trust for the James J Hill Reference Library.
Hard work, family and religion dominated Gertrude Hill Gavin's life. Undoubtedly this necklace was worn and appreciated at many social events and has remained in the family until today.