Auction House Christie’s has announced the holding of its Hong Kong Magnificent Jewels Sale on Tuesday, May 29, 2018 at the Convention Hall of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, No. 1 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong. A total of 293 Lots, assigned Lot Nos. 1801 to 2093, will be offered at the auctions commencing at 1.00 PM in the afternoon on May 29, 2018. The auction will be preceded by viewing of the lots at the same venue from Friday 25th May, 2018 to Tuesday, 29th May, 2018, viewing times on 25th May being from 10.30 AM to 8.00 PM; 26th May to 28th May being from 10.30 AM to 6.30 PM and on the final day 29th May, being from 10.30 AM to 12-00 PM.
The Lots range in value from as low as HKD 20,000 (USD 2,500) to as high as HKD 195 million (USD 25 million). Top lots of the sale are colored diamond lots followed by Jadeite, colorless diamond, ruby, sapphire and emerald lots. The lots include bracelets, brooches, bracelets, earclips, earrings, necklaces, pendants and rings, set with colored and colorless diamonds, jadeites, sapphires, rubies, emeralds and organic gemstones such as natural and cultured pearls etc.
COLORED DIAMOND LOTS
Top highlight of the sale is a colored diamond lot, LOT 2093 – A MAGNIFICENT COLOURED DIAMOND AND DIAMOND PENDANT NECKLACE BY MOUSSAIEFF – with an estimate of HKD 145,000,000 – 195,000,000 (USD 18,550,981 – 24,947,871). The 41.6 cm (16.4 ins) white gold double link-chain necklace, collet-set intermittently with circular-cut diamonds, suspends a pear-shaped fancy vivid blue diamond, weighing approximately 8.01 carats, surmounted by a circular-cut fancy intense pink diamond, weighing approximately 1.60 carats, with a similarly-cut colorless diamond spacer, weighing approximately 0.35 carats, placed in between.
GIA report no. 5161611544 dated 18 September, 2014, states that the 8.01 carat, pear-shaped diamond is fancy vivid blue color, internally flawless clarity, with excellent polish.
GIA report no. 2185627370 dated 17 November, 2017, states that the 1.60 carat, circular-cut diamond is fancy intense pink color.
GIA report no. 6282523389 dated 24 March, 2018, states that the 0.35 carat circular-cut diamond is D-color, VS1 clarity, with excellent cut, polish and symmetry.
Other significant Colored Diamond Lots include Lots 2090 and 2085.
LOT 2090 – A RARE COLOURED DIAMOND AND DIAMOND RING – with an estimate of HKD 44,500,000 – 65,000,000 (USD 5,693,232 – 8,315,957) is the second highlight of the sale based on estimates. Ring size 5¾ gold ring, has as its centerpiece a claw-set oval brilliant-cut, fancy intense orangy-pink, VVS1 clarity diamond, weighing approximately 12.85 carats, highlighted by half-moon shaped and triangular-shaped colorless diamond surround. Three-quarter of the hoop of the ring is set with circular-cut colorless diamonds.
GIA report no. 2125718736 dated 3rd November 2010 states that the 12.85-carat diamond is fancy intense orangy- pink color and VVS1 clarity.
LOT 2085 – AN IMPORTANT COLOURED DIAMOND AND DIAMOND RING – with an estimate of HKD 10,000,000 – 15,000,000 (USD 1,279,378 – 1,919,067) is another significant colored diamond lot of the sale. Ring size 6, platinum ring is bezel and claw-set with a pear-shaped fancy intense blue diamond, weighing approximately 2.35 carats as centerpiece, highlighted by a circular-cut pink diamond surround. The bifurcated gallery and upper hoop of the ring is set with circular-cut colorless diamonds.
GIA report no. 11326764, dated 23 February 2018, states that the 2.35-carat, pear-shaped diamond is fancy intense blue color and internally flawless clarity. Diamond Type Classification letter annexed to the report states that the diamond has been determined to be Type IIb.
JADEITE LOTS
Top Jadeite highlight of the sale and the third most valued lot of the sale is LOT 2075 – A JADEITE AND DIAMOND NECKLACE – with an estimate of HKD 30,000,000 – 50,000,000 (USD 3,838,134 – 6,396,890). The 73.5 cm (28.9 ins) matinee-length single-strand necklace is composed of sixty-nine jadeite beads, ranging in diameter from 8.2 to 10.8 mm, and at one point little away from the clasp, is spaced by a pair of jadeite hoops and an oval-shaped diamond mounted in platinum, weighing approximately 1.50 carats. The clasp behind is also set with an oval-shaped diamond, weighing approximately 3.02 carats, mounted in platinum. Diameter of largest hoop is approximately 18.6 mm and thickness approximately 6.8 mm.
Hong Kong Jade & Stone Laboratory report no. KJ 98029(1-5) dated 6 April 2018, states that the beads and hoops are natural color Fei Cui (Jadeite Jade) without any resin.
Two GIA reports nos. 10231042 and 11603748 dated 24 October 1997 and 12 July 2001 respectively state that the 3.02 and 1.50 carat oval-shaped diamonds are D-color and VVS2 clarity.
Other significant Jadeite Lots include Lots 2044 and 2074.
LOT 2044 – A SUPERB JADEITE AND DIAMOND NECKLACE – with an estimate of HKD 25,000,000 – 35,000,000 (USD 3,198,445 – 4,477,823) is the 4th most valued lot and the 2nd most valued jadeite lot of the sale. The 78.5 cm (30.9 ins), opera length single-strand necklace is composed of sixty-three graduated lavender jadeite beads, varying in diameter from 8.6 to 11.1 mm, divided into three sections of 21 jadeite beads each by two jadeite double-hoops and the clasp behind set with a circular jadeite cabochon with diamond-set hoop links. The largest hoop has a diameter of approximately 15.6 mm, width approximately 5.1 mm and thickness approximately 4.8 mm.
Hong Kong Jade & Stone Laboratory report no. KJ 98080(1-5) dated 11 April 2018 states that the cabochon, double-hoop and 3 beads are natural color Fei Cui (Jadeite Jade) without any resin.
LOT 2074 – A RARE JADEITE HULU PENDANT NECKLACE – with an estimate of HKD 18,000,000 – 25,000,000 (USD 2,302,880 – 3,198,445) is the 3rd most valued Jadeite lot of the sale. The necklace with a length adjustable black silk cord, suspends a Jadeite Hulu, carved with a pair of bats, through a wooden bead surmount. The Jadeite carving has dimensions of approximately 59.1 x 35.6 x 16.4 mm.
Hong Kong Jade & Stone Laboratory report no. KJ 98008 dated 6 April 2018 states that the carving is natural color Fei Cui (Jadeite Jade) without any resin.
COLORLESS DIAMOND LOTS
The 5th most valued lot of the sale is the top lot of colorless diamonds, assigned LOT No. 2057 and titled A MAGNIFICENT DIAMOND RING, BY CARVIN FRENCH – with an estimate of HKD 24,000,000 – 35,000,000 (USD 3,070,507 – 4,477,823. Ring size 5¾ platinum ring, with maker’s mark for Carvin French is set with a cut-cornered square step-cut, D-Color, Internally Flawless clarity diamond, weighing approximately 25.36 carats, flanked by bullet-shaped diamonds on the shoulders of the ring.
GIA report no. 11160403 dated 3 April 2018 states that the 25.36-carat, emerald-cut diamond is D-Color, Internally Flawless clarity, with excellent symmetry. Diamond Type Classification letter annexed to the report states that the diamond has been determined to be Type IIa.
Other significant Colorless Diamond Lots include Lots 2048 and 2084.
LOT 2048 – AN IMPORTANT DIAMOND RING – with an estimate of HKD 8,000,000 – 12,000,000 (USD 1,023,502 – 1,535,254) is the second colorless diamond highlight of the sale. Ring size 6, white gold ring is set with a cut-cornered square step-cut or emerald-cut, E-Color, VS2 clarity diamond, weighing approximately 18.50 carats, flanked by tapered baguette-cut diamonds on the shoulders of the ring.
GIA report no. 2183351303 dated 2 August 2017 states that the 18.50-carat, emerald-cut diamond is E-Colour, VS2 clarity, with excellent cut, polish and symmetry.
LOT 2084 – A PAIR OF DIAMOND EAR STUDS – with an estimate HKD 7,200,000 – 10,000,000 (USD 921,152 – 1,279,378) is another significant colorless diamond lot of the sale. Each of the pair of white gold ear studs is claw-set with a round brilliant-cut diamond, weighing approximately 5.10 & 5.02 carats respectively.
GIA report no. 6271412148 dated 16 November 2017 states that the 5.10-carat diamond is D-Color, Internally Flawless clarity, with excellent cut, polish and symmetry
GIA report no. 1218068998 dated 4 April 2016 states that the 5.02 carat-diamond is D-Color, Internally Flawless clarity, with excellent polish.
Two Diamond Type Classification letters annexed to the reports state that the diamonds have been determined to be Type IIa.
RUBY LOTS
LOT 2061 – A RARE RUBY AND DIAMOND NECKLACE – with an estimate of HKD 18,000,000 – 28,000,000 (USD 2,302,880 – 3,582,258) is the top ruby highlight of the sale and also the 6th most valued lot of the sale. The 41 cm (16 ins) choker length platinum and yellow gold fringe necklace is composed of a line necklace made of 58 cushion-shaped colorless diamonds, separated and linked by circular-cut colorless diamond collets and suspending 58 cushion-shaped rubies set on yellow gold as fringes around the necklace and also linked by a little larger circular-cut diamond collets.
SSEF report no. 99405 dated 16 April 2018 states that the rubies are of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating. An appendix to the report states that the rubies, with a total weight of 69.45 carats (declared weight), have been carefully selected for this necklace and exhibit a matching color and a fine purity. The small inclusions found by microscopic inspection and the analyzed properties of these rubies are the hallmarks of rubies from the reputed mines in Mogok valley and Mong Hsu in Burma. Their attractive red color is due to a combination of well-balanced trace elements, which are the characteristic for the finest rubies from Burma (Myanmar). Assembling a matching selection of natural rubies from Burma of this quality can be considered rare and exceptional; and an additional information letter states that although it might be an option that few of these rubies are of pigeon blood red color, SSEF would only be able to fully grade these rubies in loose state after they have been unset.
GGL report no. 17102094/ 1 to 57 dated 3 April 2018 states that the fifty-seven rubies are of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating and a few of the rubies are called pigeon blood red. An appendix to the report states that the gemstones possess a saturated and homogenous color. The color variety of a few of the rubies in this necklace and earrings set (presented in this sale: lot 2061 and lot 2059) may also be called “pigeon’s blood red” in the trade.
GGL report no. 17102094/ 58 dated 3 April 2018 states that the 2.60-carat ruby is of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating.
Other significant Ruby Lots include Lots 2059, 2053 and 1970.
LOT 2059 – AN IMPORTANT PAIR OF RUBY AND DIAMOND EAR PENDANTS – with an estimate of HKD 12,800,000 – 18,000,000 (USD 1,637,604 – 2,302,880) is another ruby highlight of the sale. These ear-pendants and Lot 2061 are part of the same demi-parure, but presented as separate lots in the sale. Each of the pair of platinum and gold ear-pendants, 2.4 cm long, suspends a cushion-cut ruby mounted in yellow gold, weighing 5.06 and 5.03 carats respectively from a surmount set with a square-cut diamond weighing respectively 2.20 and 2.15 carats, mounted in platinum, with a second smaller square-cut diamond placed on the linear suspension between the larger square-cut diamond and the cushion-cut ruby.
SSEF report no. 99406 dated 16 April 2018 states that the rubies are of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating. An appendix to the report states that the pair of ruby ear pendants possesses extraordinary characteristics and merits special mention and appreciation. The rubies with a declared total weight of 10.09 carats have been carefully selected for their attractive color and quality, thus resulting in a matching pair of ruby ear-pendants. The small inclusions found by microscopic inspection are the hallmarks of rubies from the classical ruby mines in Burma (Myanmar), well known for its wealth in gems since historic times. Their color is due to a combination of well-balanced trace elements, which are characteristic for the finest rubies from Burma. Assembling a matching pair of natural rubies from Burma of this quality can be considered rare.
GGL report no. 18031186/ 1 and 2 dated 23 March 2018 state that the rubies are of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating. A duplicate appendix to the report states that the rubies possess a saturated and homogenous color. The color variety of a few of the rubies in this necklace and earrings set (presented in this sale as lot 2061 and lot 2059) may also be called “pigeon’s blood red” in the trade.
GIA report no. 2268321440 dated 6 July 2017 states that the rubies are of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating and the color appearance of these rubies is described in the trade as “Pigeon’s Blood”
Two GIA reports dated 26 May 2015 and 29 May 2015, state that the 2.20 and 2.15 carat diamonds are F color, VVS1 and VVS2 clarity respectively.
LOT 2053 – AN ELEGANT PAIR OF DIAMOND AND RUBY EAR PENDANTS – with an estimate of HKD 9,800,000 – 15,000,000 (USD 1,253,790 – 1,919,067) is another ruby lot of the sale. Each of the pair of platinum ear-pendants, 3.9 cm long, suspends a pear-shaped colorless diamond weighing respectively 5.95 and 5.83 carats, from a surmount consisting of a cushion-shaped ruby weighing respectively 2.62 and 2.42 carats, and a linear hook set with circular-cut diamonds.
Two GIA reports nos. 1172017135 and 5161748279 dated 18 May 2016 and 19 November 2014 state that the pear-shaped diamonds are D-color and Internally Flawless clarity. Diamond Type Classification letters annexed to the reports state that the diamonds have been determined to be Type IIa.
SSEF report no. 98578 dated 7 March 2018 states that the rubies are of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating and the color of these rubies may also be called ‘pigeon blood red’ based on SSEF reference standards.
AGL report no. CS1077412 A and B dated 25 July 2016 state that the rubies are of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no heat enhancement. A letter annexed to the reports states that these gems possess a richly saturated, homogeneous color that is typical of fine quality rubies from this famous locale. Traditionally rubies of this color have been described as having a “pigeon’s blood” hue. Fine, well-matched Classic Burma rubies such as those set in this refined pair of earrings are exceedingly rare.
LOT 1970 – AN IMPORTANT RUBY AND DIAMOND RING – with an estimate of HKD 7,000,000 – 9,000,000 (USD 895,564 – 1,151,440) is another significant ruby lot from the sale. Ring size 6, platinum ring is designed as a flowerhead, set with an oval-shaped ruby, weighing approximately 5.03 carats as centerpiece, with an oval-shaped colorless diamond petal surround consisting of six diamonds, ranging in weight from 0.60 to 0.65 carats. The gallery and upper hoop of the ring are set with circular-cut diamonds.
SSEF report no. 90723 dated 8 March 2017 states that the ruby is of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating and the color of this ruby may also be called “pigeon blood red” based on SSEF reference standards. An appendix to the report states that the ruby possesses extraordinary characteristics and merits special mention and appreciation. The ruby exhibits an attractive and saturated red color combined with a fine purity. Its color is further pronounced by its well-proportioned cutting style, resulting in vivid red hues due to multiple internal reflections. The small inclusions found by microscopic inspection represent the hallmarks of rubies from the classical ruby mines in the Mogok Valley in Burma, well known for its wealth in gems since historic times. Its saturated red color, poetically also referred to as “pigeon blood red”, is due to a combination of well-balanced trace elements, which are characteristic for rubies from Burma (Myanmar). A natural ruby from Burma of this size and quality can be considered rare and exceptional.
Six GIA reports dated from 18 March 2016 to 28 April 2016, in respect of the six oval shaped diamonds, ranging in weight from 0.60 to 0.65 carats, state that the diamonds are D-color and VS1 to VS2 clarity.
SAPPHIRE LOTS
Significant sapphire lots include LOTS 1966, 2056 and 1964.
LOT 1966 – A SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND RING, BY CHOPARD – is the top sapphire lot of the sale with an estimate of HKD 8,000,000 – 12,000,000 (USD 1,023,502 – 1,535,253). Ring size 8¾, white gold ring, signed Chopard, with bifurcated shoulders is set with an octagonal step-cut or emerald-cut sapphire, weighing approximately 19.28 carats, with the upper hoop accented by single-cut diamonds.
SSEF report no. 96622 dated 28 November 2017 states that the sapphire is of Kashmir origin, with no indications of heating.
AGL report no. 8087741 dated 8 March 2018 states that the sapphire is of Kashmir origin, with no gemological evidence of heat and clarity enhancement.
LOT 2056 – A SUPERB SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND RING, BY BULGARI – with an estimate of HKD 6,500,000 – 8,500,000 (USD 831,595 – 1,087,471) is another significant sapphire lot. Ring size 5½, platinum ring, signed Bulgari, is claw-set with an octagonal step-cut or emerald-cut sapphire, weighing approximately 20.48 carats, flanked by triangular-shaped diamonds, on the shoulders of the ring.
SSEF report no. 98769 dated 13 March 2018 states that the approximately 20 carat sapphire is of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating and the color of the sapphire may also be called “royal blue” based on SSEF reference standards. An appendix to the report states that the sapphire possesses extraordinary characteristics and merits special mention and appreciation. The sapphire exhibits a remarkable size and weight, combined with an attractive and saturated blue color and a fine purity. Its color is further pronounced by its well-proportioned cutting style, resulting in vivid blue hues due to multiple internal reflections. The small inclusions found by microscopic examination and the analyzed properties are consistent with those found in sapphires from the classical mines of Burma (Myanmar). Its saturated blue color, poetically also referred to as ‘royal blue’, is due to a combination of well-balanced trace elements in the gemstone, which are typical and characteristics for the finest sapphires of Mogok, Burma. A natural sapphire from Burma of this size and quality is very rare and exceptional
LOT 1964 – AN IMPORTANT SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND PENDANT – with an estimate of HKD 4,000,000 – 6,000,000 (USD 511,751 – 767,626) is another significant sapphire lot. The platinum pendant of length 3.9 cm is claw-set with a cushion-shaped sapphire as centerpiece, weighing approximately 57.56 carats, highlighted by a two-tiered circular-cut diamond surround with pear-shaped diamond trefoil surmount, with provision for suspension from a necklace.
SSEF report no. 98546 dated 7 March 2018 states that the approximately 55.00 carat sapphire is of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) origin, with no indications of heating. An appendix to the report states that the natural sapphire possesses extraordinary characteristics and merits a special mention and appreciation. The sapphire exhibits an impressive size and weight, combined with an attractive blue color and a very fine purity. The few tiny inclusions found by microscopic examination and the analyzed properties are consistent with those found in sapphires from the classical mines in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) – also known as the “Island of Gems.” A natural sapphire from Ceylon of this size and quality can be considered rare and exceptional.
GGL report no. 9510050 dated 16 October 1995 states that the sapphire is of Sri Lanka (Ceylon) origin, with no indications of thermal treatment.
EMERALD LOTS
Top among the Emerald Lots is LOT 2015 – AN ELEGANT PAIR OF EMERALD, NATURAL PEARL AND DIAMOND EAR PENDANTS – with an estimate of HKD 6,500,000 – 9,500,000 (USD 831,595 – 1,215,409). Each of the pair of white gold ear-pendants, 5.9 cm long, suspends a pear-shaped emerald, weighing respectively 11.92 and 11.39 carats, linked by a button-shaped natural pearl, of dimensions 8.67 – 8.69 x 7.89 and 8.66 – 8.76 x 7.47 mm, flanked by diamond beads, to the circular-cut diamond-set hook at the top.
GGL report no. 17102004/ 1 and 2 dated 20 October 2017 state that the emeralds are of Colombia origin, with indications of minor clarity enhancement/oil treatment accepted in the trade.
AGL reports nos. 1080911 and 1080912 dated 11 January 2017 state that the emeralds are of Colombia origin, with minor clarity enhancement of the traditional type.
SSEF report dated 22 March 2018 states that the analyzed properties confirm the authenticity of these two saltwater natural pearls.
LOT 1948 – AN IMPORTANT EMERALD AND DIAMOND NECKLACE – with an estimate of HKD 4,500,000 – 6,500,000 (USD 575,720 – 831,595) is another significant emerald lot of the sale. The 39.5 cm (15.6 ins) choker length platinum fringe necklace with French assay marks for platinum is composed of a series of 13 oval and circular cabochon emeralds within a baguette-cut diamond surround, spaced by circular-cut diamond collets. Except for the four emeralds behind the necklace the remaining nine emeralds suspend baguette diamond set panel fringes of geometric motif. The median longest fringe has an additional circular cabochon emerald followed by the geometric motif. Four geometric motif fringes of decreasing length are placed on either side of the median longest fringe. Four shorter geometric fringes with a cabochon emerald terminal arising from the circular-cut diamond collets are placed on either side of the median longest fringe. Thus altogether there are 17 fringes in the necklace, a median long fringe and 8 fringes on either side, a shorter fringe with a cabochon emerald terminal alternating with longer geometric motif fringe set with baguette diamonds.
AGL report no. CS 64049 dated 3 December 2014 states that the emeralds are of Colombia origin, with minor amount of oil and Canada Balsam. A letter annexed to the report states that the emeralds are singularly distinguished and together make a unique collection of gemstones. Collectively these emeralds have received the highest origin determination issued by AGL: Classic Colombia. They exhibit an intense and saturated green color that is representative of top-quality stone from this auspicious source. Emeralds of such color and quality are commonly referred to as “old-mine” emeralds and are considered to have originated from the Muzo mining district in Western flank of the Cordillera Oriental. These gems have additionally been fashioned in the cabochon cutting style that instills a charm to the jewelry article in a way that complements the overall visual appeal of this exceptional necklace.
LOT 1977 – A PAIR OF EMERALD AND DIAMOND EAR PENDANTS – with an estimate of HKD 4,300,000 – 6,000,000 (USD 550,420 – 768,028) is another emerald lot in the sale. Each of the pair of platinum and white gold ear pendants, 3.7 cm long, suspends a cut-cornered rectangular step-cut or emerald-cut emerald weighing respectively 6.37 and 5.88 carats, highlighted by a single-cut diamond scalloped surround, from a cushion-cut diamond surmount at the end of the hook above.
SSEF reports nos. 97384 and 97385 dated 16 January 2018, states that the emeralds are of Colombia origin, with no indication of clarity modification in fissures at the time of testing.
AGL report no. 1089134 A and B dated 8 December 2017, states that the emeralds are of Colombia origin, with no clarity enhancement.
PARAIBA TOURMALINE LOT
LOT 2006 – AN EXCEPTIONAL PAIR OF TOURMALINE AND DIAMOND EAR PENDANTS – with an estimate of HKD 12,800,000 – 18,000,000 (USD 1,638,459 – 2,304,083) is the 10th most valued lot of the sale. Each of the pair of ear pendants suspends a pear-shaped paraiba tourmaline, weighing respectively 7.46 and 6.81 carats, within a pear and oval-shaped diamond drop-shaped frame, from a surmount set with marquise and pear-shaped diamonds centered around a marquise-cut diamond, and a pear-shaped diamond trefoil spacer placed in between.
Two SSEF reports nos. 86453 and 86452 dated 27 June 2016, state that the paraiba tourmalines are of Brazil origin, with indications of heating. Two appendices to the reports state that the paraiba tourmalines possess characteristics which merit special mention and appreciation. The gemstones exhibit an attractive color and an outstanding purity. Their colors are further pronounced by its well-proportioned cutting style, resulting in vivid blue hues due to multiple internal reflections. The analyzed properties are consistent with those of Paraiba tourmalines from Brazil. Their vivid blue color is due to a combination of well-balanced trace elements (notably copper) in the gemstone, which are typical and characteristics for the finest Paraiba tourmalines of Brazil. Paraiba tourmalines are commonly heated at a rather low temperature (approx. 450C) to modify and enhance their color. The color after heating is considered stable. As for the majority of gem-quality Paraiba-tourmalines from Brazil, the described gemstones show indications of heating. Paraiba tourmalines from Brazil of this size and quality are rare and exceptional.
Two GGL reports nos. 604803 and 604804 dated 5 April 2006, state that the tourmalines are of Brazil origin, and this color variety of tourmalines is known as “Paraiba tourmaline” in the trade. Two appendices to the reports, state that the gemstones possess a saturated and homogenous pure greenish-blue color, combined with a very high degree of transparency. A pleasant shape and finely proportioned cut provide numerous vivid reflections of a vibrant greenish-blue color, and the high purity of the gemstones make it virtually eye-clean.
PEARL LOTS
Top among the Pearl Lots is LOT – 2092 – AN EXCLUSIVE COLOURED DIAMOND, DIAMOND AND SEED PEARL BRACELET, BY EDMOND CHIN FOR THE HOUSE OF BOGHOSSIAN– with an estimate of HKD 16,000,000 – 25,000,000 (USD 2,048,074 – 3,200,115). The 18 cm long white, yellow and pink gold bracelet is a highly articulated seed pearl band set with vari-shaped, multi-colored diamond flower-heads and buds, interspersed with circular-cut diamond leaves, the reverse embellished by single-cut diamonds.
Thirty-two GIA reports dated from 31 August 2005 to 4 February 2017, state that the 0.14 to 0.77 carat diamonds range from fancy vivid, fancy intense, fancy, fancy dark, fancy deep, red, purplish-red, pink, orangy-pink, purplish-pink, blue, gray-blue, green-blue, grayish-violet, bluish-violet, green, yellow-green, blue-green, bluish-green, yellowish-green, yellow-orange, yellowish-orange, green-yellow colors, with VVS2 to I1 clarity.
Other significant Pearl Lots include Lots 2029 and 2016
LOT 2019 – A SUPERB SINGLE-STRAND NATURAL PEARL AND DIAMOND NECKLACE – with an estimate of HKD 4,000,000 – 6,000,000 (USD 512,018 – 768,028) is another pearl highlight of the sale. The 55.5 cm (21.8 ins) matinee length single strand pearl necklace is composed of sixty-three graduated natural pearls, varying in diameter from 6.80 to 11.15 mm, with a marquise-cut diamond clasp, mounted in white gold. This lot had previously featured at a Christie’s Geneva Auction, held on November 18, 1998 as Lot 826, as part of jewels belonging to John D. Rockefeller Jr.
SSEF report no. 97161 dated 19 January 2018, states that the analyzed properties confirm the authenticity of these sixty-three saltwater natural pearls. An appendix to the report states that the natural pearl necklace possess extraordinary characteristics and merits special mention and appreciation. The described necklace consists of 63 natural pearls strung on a regularly graduated strand and graduate to a remarkable size. They have been carefully selected for this necklace and exhibit a fine pearl lustre combined with an attractive body color subtly ranging from white to slightly cream. In addition to these qualities, part of these pearls show rosé and green overtones, poetically also referred to as the ‘orient of pearls’. These overtones are an iridescence effect on the surface of pearls and contribute greatly to the beauty of the described pearl necklace. Assembling a matching selection of natural pearls of this size and quality can be considered rare and exceptional.
LOT 2016 – A PAIR OF NATURAL PEARL AND DIAMOND EAR PENDANTS – with an estimate of HKD 3,200,000 – 5,500,000 (USD 409,615 – 704,025) is another significant natural pearl lot of the sale. Each of the pair of ear-pendants, 2.8 cm long, suspends a slightly baroque natural pearl drop, with dimensions of 10.30 – 13.80 x 16.80 and 11.50 – 13.55 x 16.20 mm respectively, from a pear-shaped diamond surmount, weighing respectively 2.02 and 2.02 carats, mounted in white gold.
SSEF report no. 72797 dated 4 March 2014, states that the analyzed properties confirm the authenticity of these saltwater natural pearls.
Two GIA reports nos. 1119996304 and 1129365494 dated 29 March 2011 and 2 August 2011, state that the diamonds are G and H color, SI1 and VS1 clarity respectively.