Historic Inchiquin Emerald jewel offered for sale in London

The Inchiquin Emerald, a 5.67ct antique Colombian gemstone, is being offered for sale by Hancocks London. 

The jewel has remained within the O’Brien family, the Barons of Inchiquin, since it was presented to Ethel Jane Foster upon her marriage to the Honourable Lucius William O’Brien in 1896.

The O’Brien dynasty traces its direct lineage back to Brian Boru, the last High King to exercise authority over all of Ireland. 

Documented in the 15th Baroness Inchiquin’s 1939 will as a “large emerald and diamond bracelet,” the piece has been held by her descendants for more than 130 years.

The gemstone has received an “Exceptional Emerald” designation from the Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF). 

Scientific testing confirmed the 5.67ct octagonal emerald shows no indications of clarity modification, a rare attribute for Colombian stones of this size. 

The SSEF report also highlighted its vivid green hue and multiple internal reflections, categorising it as a museum-quality specimen.

Crafted circa 1890, the late-Victorian jewel features the central emerald set in yellow gold claws, surrounded by 20 old-cut diamonds totalling approximately 10.50 carats. 

In keeping with the versatile craftsmanship of the era, the piece is convertible and can be worn as either a bangle or a pendant.

The jewel is currently on display at Hancocks London in St James’s, with the price available on application.

Guy Burton, managing director of Hancocks London, said: “The Inchiquin Emerald belongs to an exceptionally small group of named heritage jewels available today. Jewels of this calibre come to market very rarely, and to find a Colombian emerald of such quality with provenance connected to Irish nobility is unheard of.”