The Imperial Cushions. A spectacular pair of diamond ear pendants. Photo: Christie's Images Ltd. 2011

Each set with a cushion-shaped diamond weighing 23.49 and 23.11 carats, spaced by single-cut diamond bell-shaped links, joined to the baguette-cut and collet-set diamond surmount, mounted in platinum, 5.0 cm long. Estimate HK$55,000,000 - HK$75,000,000  ($7,097,613 - $9,678,563)

Accompanied by two reports nos. 2135221734 and 1132221736 dated 25 March 2011 from the Gemological Institute of America stating that the 23.49 and 23.11 carat diamond is D colour, VVS1 clarity; with a working diagram indicating that the clarity is potentially flawless

Also accompanied by reports nos. 11030047 and 11030046 dated 14 March 2011 from the Gübelin Gemmological Laboratory stating that the 23.49 and 23.11 carat diamonds are D colour, VS1 clarity;

Also accompanied by two appendixes and a note from the Gübelin Gemmological Laboratory stating that the diamonds possess an antique cutting style which is rarely encountered in the gem trade today. In addition, the diamonds are classified as type IIa (a chemically very pure type of natural diamond). They display a colour and degree of transparency which are particular to the finest of these unique gemstones. Diamonds of this type, exhibiting an antique cutting style as well as a superior quality, are very rare and will most certainly evoke references to the historic term of "Golconda". In addition, the occurrence of such a matching pair of Golconda diamonds, incredibly similar in size, cut and shape, while displaying identical colour and spectroscopic characteristics, is an exceptional coincidence in itself. When placed table against table in a symmetrically opposed fashion, these two pieces seems to form a nice "dipyramidal" shape, suggesting they might originate from one large single rough crystal.

Such a well-matched pair of Golconda Diamonds reaching over 23 carats in size remains an undeniable rarity (2)

23.49及23.11克拉枕形戈爾康達D/VVS1〔可成完美〕Type Iia 鑽石耳墜，附GIA及Gübelin證書，配以小鑽，鑲鉑金，耳夾型耳墜長度5.0公分

Christie's. Hong Kong Magnificent Jewels, 31 May 2011, Convention Hall  www.christies.com