Lot 2087. A superb 10.05 carats Burma “Pigeon Blood” oval-shaped ruby and diamond ring, by Faidee. Estimate HKD 68,800,000 - HKD 98,000,000 (USD 8,910,219 - USD 12,691,882). Price realised HKD 78,940,000. Photo Christie's Images Ltd 2016. 

The oval-shaped ruby, weighing approximately 10.05 carats, within a radiating surround of oval-shaped diamonds, to the circular-cut diamond gallery, extending to the undulating hoop, mounted in platinum and gold, ring size 6¼. Signed and with maker’s mark for Faidee.

Accompanied by report no. 88472 dated 20 October 2016 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating that the ruby is of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating and the colour of this ruby may also be called ‘pigeon blood red’ based on SSEF reference standards; also accompanied by an appendix stating that the ruby possesses extraordinary characteristics and merits special mention and appreciation. The ruby exhibits an impressive size and is characterised by an attractive saturated colour and very fine purity, a combination rarely encountered in rubies from Burma of this size. The few inclusions found by microscopic inspection represent the hallmarks of rubies from the classical ruby mines in the Mogok Valley in Burma (Myanmar). Its attractive colour, poetically also referred to as “pigeon’s blood red”, is due to a combination of well-balanced trace elements, which are characteristic for the finest rubies from Mogok. A natural ruby from Burma of this size and quality is very rare and exceptional and can be considered a true treasure of nature.

Report no. 2247031141 dated 14 October 2016 and monograph from the GIA Gemological Institute of America stating that the ruby is of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating and the colour appearance of this stone is described in the trade as “Pigeon Blood”.

Report no. 16101114 dated 13 October 2016 from the Gübelin GemLab stating that the ruby is of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating; also accompanied by an appendix and Gemmological profile stating that the ruby possesses a richly saturated and homogeneous colour. The colour variety of this gemstone may also be called "pigeon's blood red" in the trade. Such a combination of characteristics is rare in natural rubies of this size.

Christie's. Hong Kong Magnificent Jewels, 29 November 2016, Hong Kong, HKCEC Grand Hall