HONG KONG.- Tiancheng International Jewellery and Jadeite Autumn Auction 2015 will be held on 6 Dec 2015 (Sunday), 1pm, and preview will be held from 28 Nov to 5 Dec (10:00 am to 6:00pm), at 30/F Bank of China Tower, 1 Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong. This autumn, Tiancheng International offers over 280 lots of finest jewellery and jadeite pieces totalling over HK$280 million／US$36 million. The forthcoming auction will highlight an array of exceptional jewels, including the magnificent Natural Unheated Burmese Sapphire and Diamond Necklace and Pair of Matching Pendent Earrings, with sapphires altogether weighing 106.86 carats. Also noteworthy is a rare Icy Lavender Jadeite “Laughing Buddha” and Diamond Pendant. With exquisite craftsmanship, the Buddha’s iconic image was brought to life in this much-coveted lot.

Mr. Stewart Young, Director of Tiancheng International’s Jewellery Department, remarks, “Following our extraordinary auction results achieved last season with The Flare of Crimson, 52.22-carat natural unheated Mozambican “Pigeon’s Blood” ruby and diamond necklace sold at HK$24.8 million/US$3.17 million, setting a world record for any Mozambican ruby jewellery at auction, we have amassed an array of extraordinary gemstones this season. Under current global economic slowdown, it is foreseen that jewellery will render as a preferable investment option and hence an increasing market demand for finest jewellery and jadeite pieces. We have garnered an array of important natural untreated gemstones, and they are complemented by a splendid range of impressive designs by Alessio Boschi, Bulgari, Nirav Modi, Scavia and many more. Apart from that, we will present a number of irresistible jewellery pieces by independent designers. Similarly noteworthy is a delightful selection of jewellery by Mikimoto, together with collection of spinels and “Triple Excellent” diamonds will also be presented. The auction promises to lead all discerning connoisseurs to a dazzling world of exquisite jewellery.”

MAGNIFICENT GEMSTONES AND DIAMONDS
Coloured Gemstones
Sapphire has been intertwined with jewellery for as long as we can remember. It holds the responsibility of bonding modern times with the past; it is thought that sapphire attracts heavenly blessings, as well as protecting its owner from envy and harm. In addition, this eminent gemstone represents royalty and romance. Two large sapphires play the main role in the talisman of Charlemagne, the King who united Western Europe during the middle ages. The talisman was crafted for his wife as their faith for everlasting love. His intention was surely an honest and respectful one, as their love never found its way to an ending. Sapphire has been exchanged among royal families since then as a sincere symbol and promise of love.

Comprising a necklace and a pair of matching earrings, “The Blue Lagoon” is a pure fascination. Representing flowing water in nature, the suite consists of 20 incredible sapphires weighing over 106 carats in size; it is complemented with D-colour diamonds weighing over 103 carats, mapping out a flawless balance for this magnificent piece of treasure that can pass on for generations.

Natural rubies from Burma are normally smaller in size, so those exceeding 5 carats in weight are extremely rare. This autumn, Tiancheng International proudly presents fiery treasures that will set every heart aflutter. Imbued with an intense red hue, this 8.06-Carat Natural Unheated Burmese Mogok “Pigeon’s Blood” Ruby and Diamond Ring from Bulgari （Lot 104，Estimate : HK$ 3,500,000 – 4,500,000／US$450,000 – 577,000）is set among sparkling diamonds to offer a tribute to the ancient Roman heritage and architectural origins of Bulgari’s artistry, rendering it a classical gem that deserves pride of place in any private collection.

Another 10.22-Carat Natural Unheated Burmese Mogok “Pigeon’s Blood” Ruby and Diamond Ring （Lot 235，Estimate : HK$ 18,000,000 – 25,000,000／US$ 2,300,000 – 3,200,000）is equally enchanting. Exuding the most preferred stunning “pigeon’s blood” colour, the gem is surrounded with white diamonds totalling approximately 7.55 carats, unleashing the most luminescent sparkle for a lasting impression.

99.00-Carat Natural Unheated Burmese Ruby and Diamond Necklace; diamonds together weighing approximately 33.90 carats
Estimate : HK$ 1,000,000–2,000,000／US$ 128,000–256,000
Of ribbon design, the interlacing of flamboyant rubies and sparkling diamonds portrays the charm of femininity. This superlative jewellery piece offers significant value with its impressive 99.00-carat rubies and diamonds of over 33 carats. Brimming with glamour and elegance, it inspires admiration at first sight.

24.13-Carat Natural Untreated Colombian Muzo Emerald and Diamond Ring
Estimate : HK$ 10,000,000 – 15,000,000／US$ 1,280,000 – 1,920,000
Renowned for their rich and seductive colour, Colombian Muzo emeralds are sought after by collectors over the years. Weighing a substantial 24.13 carats and free of treatment, the emerald of such mesmerising green colour is flanked by glittering diamonds totalling approximately 2.30 carats. Offering unparalleled beauty and aesthetic charm, this breathtaking beautiful emerald will exert an irresistible hold on connoisseurs.

The qualities of spinels – such as rich intense colour, hardness and glitter – misled many to consider them sapphires. Besides red, spinel also comes in blue, which is long cherished by jewellery collectors. While iron and zinc could turn spinel bluish, none of them surpass cobalt spinel in value. Characterised by its rarity, cobalt spinel is considered extraordinary for the brilliant radiance it evokes that is hardly seen in other gems. Amongst cobalt spinels, only the rarest possesses the colour-changing characteristics, due to the conditions of light source and ions in these stones.

The 25.79-Carat Natural Untreated Sri Lankan Colour-Changing Cobalt Spinel and Diamond Ring （Lot 144，Estimate : HK$ 780,000 – 1,200,000／US$ 100,000 – 154,000）to be offered in the upcoming auction is named “The Electric Romance” . The spinel appears blue in daylight（Left）but turns purplish（Right）under incandescent light, looking enchanting in different ways. Mistaken for a blue sapphire, it had been stored in a private fault for over 50 years until the rediscovery of its original value by Tiancheng International’s specialists. By far the largest colour-changing cobalt spinel to be offered at auction, the lot has astounded experienced gemstone dealers by its tremendous size. Endowed with extraordinary colour-changing characteristics, this cobalt spinel has a strong investment value and is considered a rare treasure to discerning collectors.

Sparkling Diamonds
In diamonds, rarity equals value. Coloured diamonds are rarer and more valuable than colourless diamonds. Only one in 10,000 diamonds found is coloured diamonds. Across the spectrum, yellow diamonds are celebrated for the vivid and golden hues. This autumn, Tiancheng International has assembled several of these sophisticated and glamorous yellow diamonds:

31.01-Carat Step-Cut Natural Fancy Vivid Yellow VVS2 Clarity Diamond and Diamond Ring; diamonds together weighing approximately 1.50 carats
Estimate : HK$ 16,000,000 – 20,000,000／US$ 2,050,000 – 2,560,000
Many coloured diamonds nowadays are fashioned as radiant-cut to intensify the colour. Only premium Internally Flawless coloured diamonds with strong saturation will be fashioned as step-cut as such cutting not only sacrifices a lot of weight during polishing, it also reveals the true colour and clarity of the diamond through its table. Of remarkable size, this Fancy Vivid Yellow diamond radiates a dazzling brilliance that delights all jewellery lovers. In recent years, coloured diamonds have accepted growing popularity. And with its brilliance and elegance, yellow diamonds are well loved by connoisseurs, which have made their price per carat soar up over time. This pristine beauty is certainly a treasure not to be missed.

“Sierra Leone Golden Tiger Eye”
5.21-Carat Natural Fancy Deep Yellow Diamond and Diamond Ring
Estimate : HK$ 2,600,000 – 3,600,000／US$ 335,000 – 460,000
The world’s most captivating yellow diamonds are harvested from the Zimi mine in Sierra Leone. The yellow diamonds mined possess a deep, warm and intense yellow colour with a touch of orange hue. This makes the entire stone sparkles with a vivid yellow like the colour of Jonquil. This autumn, Tiancheng International is pleased to offer a 5.21-carat Fancy Deep Yellow diamond originated from the Zimi mine in Sierra Leone. Featuring the same magnificent colour that makes Zimi yellow diamonds so coveted around the world, it resembles the fiery glint of regality that calls to mind the glow in a tiger’s eyes.

With jewellery of perfection and elegance to charm modern women, Indian jeweller Nirav Modi speaks thousands of sophisticated stories. This Pair of 17.55 and 17.06-Carat Natural Fancy Intense Yellow Diamond, Pink Diamond and Diamond Pendent Earrings is entitled “Eternity Earrings” （Lot 284，Estimate : HK$ 9,000,000 – 12,000,000／US$ 1,150,000 – 1,540,000）. Sourced from South Africa, the dazzling Fancy Intense Yellow diamonds are accentuated by a halo of intense pink and DIF brilliant-cut diamonds with Excellent Cut, Polish and Symmetry. Simulating beautiful water droplets, the unique design is a resembling mix of rich Indian heritage and Western Renaissance. Echoing the beauty of femininity, the “Eternity Earrings” are set to be an aesthetic gratification and timeless desire for all jewellery collectors.

The Triple Excellent Collection
A single brilliant-cut diamond with Excellent Cut, Polish and Symmetry is already a legacy of nature and craftsmanship; not to mention a well matched collection with good clarity and intricate proportions. Such a collection requires a long period of time to pair, large amount of resources to complete and great attention to the details. At the Spring Auction 2015, Tiancheng International introduced a series of diamond lots with “Excellent Cut, Polish and Symmetry” which concluded with overwhelming results. This autumn, Tiancheng International continues to present collectors with several Triple Excellent diamonds pieces housed by Golkonda to unveil the true luminescence and brilliance of the perfect stones. As it may take years to produce a well-matched diamond collection, the necklace and bracelet presented are exceptionally precious.

71.74-Carat Diamond Bracelet with Excellent Cut, Polish and Symmetry, Golkonda
Estimate : HK$ 6,200,000 – 8,200,000／US$ 795,000 – 1,050,000
Centred diamond weighing 10.10 carats, I colour, VS2 clarity, Ideal Cut with Excellent Hearts and Arrows, other 32 diamonds together weighing 61.64 carats, ranging from 3.56 to 1.02 carat, H to J colour, Internally Flawless to VS2 clarity

16.23-Carat Natural Fancy Yellow VVS1 Clarity Diamond and Diamond Pendent Necklace, Golkonda
Estimate : HK$ 6,200,000 – 8,200,000／US$ 795,000 – 1,050,000
Other diamonds together weighing 51.02 carats, the 3.50-carat heart-shaped diamond is of F colour, VS2 clarity, the 0.62-carat emerald-cut diamond is of D colour, Internally Flawless clarity with Excellent Polish, the 43 brilliant-cut diamonds ranging from 3.51 to 0.33 carats, D to G colour, Internally Flawless to VS2 clarity, with Excellent Cut, Polish and Symmetry

10.67-Carat H Colour SI1 Clarity Excellent Polish Diamond Ring
Estimate : HK$ 1,000,000 – 2,000,000／US$ 128,000 – 256,000
Oval-shaped diamonds are especially rare and popular among connoisseurs. This sparkling 10.67-carat diamond is simply a classic sophistication. The estimate of this lot is only a third of its market value. Given its premium quality, this shinning glory promises to bring further sparkles to the auction.

Diamond “Feather” Brooch, Mikimoto
Estimate : HK$ 100,000 – 200,000／US$ 12,800 – 25,600
With their high-quality cultured pearls, Mikimoto is one of the world’s leading fine jewellers nowadays. Apart from pearls, its gemstone jewellery enjoys equivalent popularity. Set upon this brooch are diamonds weighing approximately 10.90 carats, accompanied with an elegant, streamlined design inspired by the elegance and dancing movements of a feather. When worn, the “feather” emits a desirable glitter, as though swaying gracefully in the breeze to impart an enticing allure. This dynamic “feather” bears the legacy of Mr. Mikimoto’s aspiration to “adorn every woman in the world with jewels” and let them express their feminine charm.

OPULENT JADEITE
Pair of Jadeite, Icy Lavender Jadeite, Coloured Diamond and Diamond Pendent Earrings／Ring／Pendent Necklace, Alessio Boschi
Estimate : HK$ 22,000,000 – 32,000,000／US$ 2,820,000 – 4,100,000
In traditional Chinese culture and Taoism, purple is considered a supreme colour, symbolising the ziwei Star, which represents the emperor of the Middle Kingdom. Cultural references to the colour include zijincheng (purple Forbidden City), the Chinese name of the Forbidden City in Beijing; zi yi shou dai (purple clothing and ribbons), which symbolise the lofty positions held by court officials and the nobility. Another saying cited frequently is zi qi dong lai (purple qi coming from the east), which originates from the tale of a purple cloud hovering over the Hangu Pass as Laozi, founder of Taoism, travelled through the outpost in western China. The term is used to connote wealth, fortune and auspiciousness.

Emerald green was the colour symbolising fortune, fame as well as luck and peace. Jadeite of this colour was discovered by the imperial court in the early Ming period and it became the superior jewellery material among the upper class. Emperor Qianlong of the Qing dynasty was so obsessed with it that half of the 30,000 pieces of jadeite treasures displayed in the Palace Museum centuries later was once owned by him. Similarly infatuated with the gemstone was Empress Dowager Cixi, who was always seen donning bead necklaces, rings and hairpins made from jadeite. Even her abode in Changchun Palace was filled with jadeite utensils including chopsticks and bowls with lids. Emerald-green fei cui was associated with nobility in the Ming and Qing dynasties and the finest jadeite colour was praised as “Imperial Green”, meaning that only emperors were qualified to wear it.

This is an extraordinary work by renowned designer Alessio Boschi. The two enormous jadeite cabochons are characterised by full-bodied roundedness and captivating translucency. Coinciding with each other, the graceful purple and lustrous green delineates the virtues of auspiciousness symbolised by jadeite. They can be flexibly transformed into a pendent necklace, earrings or rings to suit diverse occasions, while accentuating the owner’s privileged status.

Pair of Icy Jadeite, Jadeite, Gem-Set and Diamond Pendent Earrings, Alessio Boschi
Estimate : HK$ 550,000 – 800,000／US$ 70,500 – 103,000
Another masterpiece from Alessio Boschi is this pair of earrings. Under the designer’s creative endeavour, emerald green jadeite pieces are matched with a highly translucent, full-bodied icy jadeite, adorned with coloured gemstones and diamonds to depict the image of fruits harvested in autumn as a symbol of abundance.

Icy Lavender Jadeite “Laughing Buddha” and Diamond Pendant
Estimate : HK$ 8,000,000 – 15,000,000／US$ 1,030,000 – 1,920,000
In this much-coveted lot, the Laughing Buddha’s iconic image is carved on top-quality icy lavender jadeite of saturated purple hue. The Buddha’s facial expressions of calmness and benevolence are realistically depicted. The halo of light around the Buddha’s head, ingeniously expressed by the interplay of light and shadow in the jadeite, also attests to the craftsman’s superb artistry. The seamless melding of jadeite’s spiritual quality with extraordinary workmanship makes the lot a magnificent work.

Pair of Icy Jadeite Bangles
Estimate : HK$ 18,000,000 – 25,000,000／US$ 2,300,000 – 3,200,000
Bangles are one of the most popular items among jadeite jewellery collectors. Due to its rarity and vast quality differences of the roughs mined, it has become almost impossible to find a bangle created from jadeite rough that offers equal excellence in colour, texture and transparency. Even if a piece of premium-grade rough is found, it will be prone to blemishes and cracks, owing to the multi-crystalline structure of jadeite. Only jadeite rough of considerable weight, with neither cracks nor flaws within a single circle, can be crafted into a bangle. It is almost one-of-a-kind to fashion two bangles of similar qualities from the same rough. This pair of rare icy jadeite bangle embodies full roundness with considerable thickness. Of evenly intense celadon colour and matching translucency, the icy jadeite bangles are a perfect pairing that connotes blessing and completeness.

Equally outstanding is the Double-Stranded Jadeite and Diamond Necklace（Lot 213，Estimate : HK$ 16,000,000 – 20,000,000／US$2,050,000 – 2,560,000）. Creating a jadeite necklace necessitates substantial wastage of jadeite rough of an even quality, followed by a set of complex polishing procedures. This is why premium-grade jadeite bead necklaces are so exceedingly rare in the market. This necklace is strung with 128 perfectly polished jadeite beads. Each bead boosts an arresting translucency and emanates a luscious emerald green colour, exuding the air of sophistication and everlasting beauty that jadeite is cherished for.

Jadeite, Seed Pearl, Ruby and Diamond “Dragon” Necklace, Scavia
Estimate : HK$ 5,800,000 – 6,800,000／US$ 745,000 – 872,000
This magnificent piece is from Scavia, an Italian jeweller founded over 100 years ago. Two pieces of emerald green “Dragon” natural jadeite are adorned with sparkling diamonds, stunning ruby beads and seed pearls. The opulent combination of gemstones presents a pleasant flowing of colour. Scavia’s arresting design combines with flawless craftsmanship to facilitate harmony of Oriental essence and Western heritage, emerging a transcendental beauty that testifies the sublime artistry of the jeweller.

DESIGNER’s PIECES
Tiancheng International has collaborated with jewellery designers, time and time again, to provide a platform for them to present their creations to collectors from around the world. This autumn, some of their stunning designs will be showcased.

7.08-Carat Natural Untreated Sri Lankan Red Spinel, Coloured Diamond and Diamond “God of Success” Pendant, Nisan
Estimate : HK$ 100,000 – 200,000／US$ 12,800 – 25,600
This elephant-headed Ganesha pendant is designed by Thai jewellery designer Nisan specially for Tiancheng International. Set with an oval, thermally untreated red spinel of 7.08 carats from Sri Lanka, the jewellery symbolises the peaceful resolution of life’s contradictions. Adorned with oval-shaped loose diamonds, the head of the elephant stands for the magnificence of infinite wisdom. Ganesha’s head and limbs are movable in the pendant, mounted in yellow gold by unique craftsmanship. On the back of the pendant is the inscription of a “Success” mark to depict Ganesha’s ultimate status as the God of Victory, Wealth and Wisdom; the Destroyer of Misfortune and the Vanguard of Everlasting Victory and Light.

In this Jadeite, Pink Sapphire, Gem-Set and Diamond “Winding Piglet” Brooch （Lot 90，Estimate : HK$ 45,000 – 85,000／US$ 5,800 – 11,000）, ICE makes dexterous use of a translucent apple green jadeite to portray part of the piglet’s large torso. Set around it are pink sapphires, decorated with coloured gems atop the piglet’s back, to provide a sense of childlike fun. Also designed by ICE is a Bi-Coloured Yellow Jadeite, Yellow Sapphire, Yellow Diamond and Diamond “Bumble Bee” Brooch（Lot 86，Estimate : HK$ 78,000 – 120,000／US$ 10,000 – 15,400）, where a natural bi-coloured yellow jadeite is used with eye-catching yellow sapphire and diamonds, to evoke the beauty of golden autumnal colour.

Moonstone, Blue Chalcedony and Diamond “Tree” Brooch and Star Rose Quartz, Pink Sapphire and Diamond “Little Girl” Ring, Farn Farn
Estimate : HK$ 48,000 – 80,000／US$ 6,150 – 10,300
Taiwanese brand Farn Farn draws inspiration from the world of amazement. By integrating different thematic elements and impeccable craftsmanship, the works produced are exceptionally unique and delicate. Included in this lot are two adorable jewellery pieces. Featuring a tree brooch composed of moonstones and a “little girl” ring set with a star rose quartz, the design resembles a young girl admiring the moon under a tree.

Jadeite, Yellow Jadeite, Yellow Diamond and Diamond Jabot pin, Wang Chinlin
Estimate : HK$ 55,000 – 85,000／US$ 7,100 – 11,000
Decorating jadeite of mesmerising translucency and fine texture with yellow jadeite and sparking diamonds, an enchanting flower was created. This lot truly reflects Taiwanese jewellery designer Wang Chinlin’s penchant for simplicity and minimalism and the integration of East and West.