Lot 385. Property of a European noble family. Fine 8.27 carats Kashmir 'royal blue' sapphire and diamond ring. Estimate 960,000 — 1,150,000 CHF (877,359 - 1,051,003 EUR). Photo Sotheby's

Set with a cushion-shaped sapphire weighing 8.27 carats, between marquise-shaped diamonds, size 51.

Accompanied by SSEF report no. 85132 and Gübelin report no. 0607047, dated 2 August 2006, each stating that the sapphire is of Kashmir origin, with no indications of heating, 'royal blue' colour according to the SSEF report, together with an appendix letter.

"The described sapphire exhibits a remarkable size and weight of 8.274 ct combined with an attractive and homogeneous blue colour and an outstanding purity. Its colour is further pronounced by its well-proportioned cutting style, resulting in vivid blue hues due to multiple internal reflections... The velvety and saturated blue colour of this sapphire, poetically also referred to as 'royal blue', 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". Excerpt from the SSEF appendix letter. 

Sotheby's.  Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels, Genève, 17 mai 2016, 10:00 AM