Strauss & co - 22 November 2010, Cape Town

58 TREATMENT AND CONDITION OF GEMSTONES Traditionally, gemstones have been treated by a variety of techniques to enhance colour and generally to improve their appearance. Typically, rubies and sapphires have been heat treated and emeralds have been treated by oil or resin to improve colour and clarity. These or other techniques, such as dyeing, irradiation, coating and impregnation, may be used on other gemstones. Although it is widely believed that heat treatments are permanent, purchasers should assume that any treatment may not be permanent and that over time special care of the stone may be required. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption. To the extent that Strauss & Co has laboratory reports containing specific information or the treatment of a stone, these reports are made available for review by potential purchasers. Available reports from internationally recognised gemmological laboratories will be noted in the description of the item. New forms of treatments and new scientific methods to discern them are constantly being developed. Consequently, there may be a lack of consensus among laboratories as to whether gemstones have been treated, the extent of the treatment or the permanence of the treatment, References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemmological laboratories are included only for the information of bidders, and Strauss & Co accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. The absence of any reference to condition of any lot does not imply that it is in perfect condition or completely free from wear or imperfections. Strauss & Co will be pleased to offer condition reports on all lots of the sale to potential purchasers. Please call Strauss & Co representatives as set forth in the front of the catalogue. REGARDING ESTIMATEDWEIGHTS Certain weights in the catalogue have been estimated through measurement. These figures are to be used as approximate guidelines and should not be relied upon as exact. WRISTWATCHES All wristwatches are sold as viewed and cannot be returned on the grounds that repairs have been carried out or part supplied by any other than the named makers. Clients are advised that they should arrange for a qualified watchmaker to inspect all potential watch purchases prior to the auction or a Strauss & Co representative may be contacted with a view to arranging an inspection. Watches and water resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Virtually all watches have been repaired in their normal useful lifetime and may now incorporate parts not original to them. Therefore we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Furthermore, in reference to watch bands, we do not guarantee the material of manufacture. ENDANGERED SPECIES Regarding coral and tortoiseshell, potential bidders who intend to export this are advised that certain permits may be required. Please contact the Strauss & Co representative before bidding. SAFETY AT STRAUSS & CO Strauss & Co are concerned for your safety while you are on our premises and we endeavour to display items safely so far as is reasonably practicable. Nevertheless, should you handle any items on view at our premises, you do so at your own risk. Important Notices to Buyers