HONG KONG, CHINA – November 29, 2022 – A dazzling 16-carat fancy vivid yellow diamond stole the show at Phillips’ Hong Kong Jewels auction, fetching HK$8.9 million (US$1.1 million). This brilliant-cut gem, a rarity in the world of colored diamonds, exceeded expectations and became the top lot of the sale.
The auction itself garnered HK$32 million (US$4 million), with 73% of the lots finding new owners. Fancy colored diamonds proved to be the stars of the show, according to Benoît Repellin and Louisa Chan, Phillips Jewels’ Worldwide Head of Jewellery and Head of Sale in Hong Kong, respectively. An 11.08-carat heart-shaped fancy yellow diamond ring surpassed its pre-sale estimate, selling for HK$1 million (US$133,091), while a 2.65-carat fancy intense orangy pink diamond ring achieved HK$2.9 million (US$373,304).
While a 1.38-carat fancy vivid purplish pink diamond ring failed to find a buyer, vintage signed pieces performed admirably. A Van Cleef & Arpels turquoise and diamond necklace from 1985, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, soared to HK$4.6 million (US$584,302), exceeding its high estimate by four times.
Among other notable sales, a pair of Harry Winston emerald and diamond ear pendants and a 37.08-carat emerald and diamond ring both sold within their estimates. Burmese rubies and sapphires also attracted significant interest, with a 4-carat unheated ruby and diamond ring and a line bracelet featuring 12 rubies exceeding HK$1 million each.
The auction concluded with a 16.56-carat sapphire and diamond ring finding a new home for HK$533,400 (US$68,169).
Phillips is now gearing up for its Geneva Jewels Auction: Two, scheduled for May 13th, with previews taking place in Taipei and Singapore beforehand.
