Lot 2032. An important 9.13 carats Kashmir sapphire and diamond ring. Estimate HK$6,500,000 – HK$9,500,000 ($800,000-1,200,000). Price realised HKD 8,200,000. © Christie's Image Ltd 2015.

Set with a cushion-shaped sapphire weighing approximately 9.13 carats, flanked by tapered baguette-cut diamonds, mounted in platinum, ring size 6, with French assay mark for platinum.

Accompanied by report no. 77113 dated 9 October 2014 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating that the 9.13 carat sapphire is of Kashmir origin, with no indications of heating; also accompanied by an appendix stating that the sapphire possesses extraordinary characteristics and merits special mention and appreciation. The sapphire exhibits an attractive and saturated colour combined with an outstanding purity and a well-proportioned cutting style. The few tiny inclusions found by microscopic inspection are the hallmarks of sapphires from the reputed deposit in Kashmir, located in a remote part of the Himalayan Mountains in India. The velvety and saturated blue colour of this sapphire is due to very fine and subtle inclusions and a combination of well-balanced trace elements in the gemstone, typical and characteristic for the finest sapphires of Kashmir. This sapphire has been spared exposure to heat treatment and its clarity and colour are thus all natural. A natural sapphire from Kashmir of this size and quality is rare and exceptional

Also accompanied by report no. 14120242 dated 22 December 2014 from the Gübelin Gemmological Laboratory stating that the 9.13 carat sapphire is of Kashmir origin, with no indications of heating; also accompanied by an appendix stating that the sapphire possesses a richly saturated and homogeneous colour, combined with a high degree of transparency, and a finely proportioned cut. In addition, this remarkable gemstone has been spared thermal treatment. Such a combination of characteristics is rare in natural Kashmir sapphires of this size.

Christie's. HONG KONG MAGNIFICENT JEWELS, 2 June 2015, Hong Kong