The center stone originates from the “Lesotho Legend,” the fifth-largest gem-quality diamond rough ever discovered worldwide. Mined in 2018 from the Letšeng mine in the Kingdom of Lesotho in Southern Africa, the 910-carat rough was ultimately cut into 67 diamonds with a total weight of nearly 450 carats. The largest of these is the 79.35-carat oval-cut diamond mounted in this necklace.
The designer set the diamond against the rich hue of rubies to accentuate its bright, radiant glow, skillfully incorporating Van Cleef & Arpels‘ signature Mystery Set™ technique:
Square rubies are set using the “Classic Mystery Set” technique, allowing for a seamless fit between gems.
Oval rubies are set using the “Individual Mystery Set” technique, where each stone has its own hidden metal setting, creating a light, seemingly floating effect.
The ribbon-like design of the necklace pays homage to iconic historical pieces from the House, echoing the two-tone elements of the 1938 Collerette necklace and the symmetrical curves found in the necklace custom-ordered in 1939 by Queen Nazli of Egypt.
Staying true to its expertise in transformable designs, Van Cleef & Arpels has endowed this piece with ingenious versatility. The necklace’s centerpiece can be replaced with a Mystery Set™ ruby clasp, and the central diamond pendant can be detached and worn independently, offering adaptability for various formal occasions.
