HONG KONG.- Leading Christie's Hong Kong Luxury Week this Autumn, the Magnificent Jewels live auction on 25 November will present The Royal Blue, an exquisite necklace set with 16 extremely rare cushion-shaped Kashmir 'royal blue' sapphires comprising 104.61 carats. With an estimate of HK$100 – 150 million / US$13 – 19 million, it is the most valuable jewel to be offered at auction in Asia this year and a testament to the demand from collectors for rare, coloured gemstones of exceptional quality.

All 16 dazzling sapphires were unearthed in the legendary mines of Kashmir - the undisputed origin of the most desirable sapphires ever discovered. To gemstone collectors and jewellers, the name 'Kashmir', in reference to sapphires, is synonymous with the finest blue colour and the most admired and valuable of all sapphire shades and tones. These 16 mesmerising Kashmir sapphires, which range in weight from 13.37 to 3.43 carats, have all been graded 'royal blue' – one of the most sought-after colour grades for sapphires – and were meticulously assembled to ensure the creation of a true masterpiece. The centre stone alone weighs an astounding 13.37 carats and is an absolute rarity in size. Hailing from an important private collection, the appearance of The Royal Blue at auction marks a significant moment in the history of the jewellery industry, offering a precious opportunity for global collectors to appreciate and own this one-of-a-kind creation.

This breathtaking necklace will be presented alongside a superb selection of over 100 jewels, including gemstones, coloured and colourless diamonds, rare jadeite, and stunning creations from renowned jewellery houses.

Coloured Gemstones

Alongside The Royal Blue necklace, a distinguished selection of coloured gemstones from the world's most revered origins will be offered this season. Highlights include a pair of important Kashmir sapphire and diamond earrings, featuring rare no-heat 'royal blue' sapphires. The collection further showcases two breathtaking Burmese ruby lots: a pair of 5.05, 5.01, 2.11 & 2.03 carats 'pigeon blood' rubies and diamond “Red Butterflies” earrings by James W. Currens, and a 'pigeon blood' rubies of 36.84 carats total and diamond bracelet, each piece representing the pinnacle of colour and purity.

Coloured and Colourless Diamonds

The auction will showcase an extraordinary range of diamonds, including a magnificent 30.87-carat D/VVS1 Potential Type IIa diamond pendent necklace/ring of exceptional purity. Coloured diamond highlights encompass a substantial 12.86-carat Fancy Orangy-Pink diamond and a vibrant 10.39-carat Fancy Vivid Yellow diamond ring, each representing the rarest expressions of nature's colour palette.

Jewellery from Renowned Houses

An array of unique signed jewellery pieces from renowned houses will be presented this season, demonstrating impeccable craftsmanship and distinctive design. The collection is led by an iconic Cartier multi-gem 'Tutti Frutti' necklace and brooch, complemented by JAR earrings and brooch adorned with exquisite natural pearls, coloured gemstones and diamonds, as well as a vibrant Harry Winston 'Peacock' brooch, each representing the highest achievements in jewellery artistry.

Jadeites

The jadeite collection presents pieces of remarkable translucency quality and intricate design, led by two truly impressive jadeite bead necklaces featuring well-matched beads of substantial size. The selection is complemented by elegant jadeite cabochon earrings and ring, as well as a finely carved jadeite 'Buddha' pendant, each piece embodying the revered symbolism and timeless beauty of this precious material.