Lot 2090. An exquisite natural coloured pearl, ruby and diamond pendant necklace. Estimate: HK$16,000,000 – HK$25,000,000 ($2,000,000-3,200,000). Price realised 18,600,000. © Christie’s Images Ltd 2014.

The single-strand of round and off-round brown and grey natural pearls measuring approximately 5.5 to 7.8 mm, joined by a natural grey button pearl measuring approximately 10.2 mm, suspending a tassel of round and off-round brown and grey natural pearls with natural pearl drops measuring approximately 8.3 x 7.2 to 17.5 x 12.3 mm, joined to the brilliant-cut diamond cap, further accented by a cabochon ruby weighing approximately 13.54 carats and a button pearl and diamond-set clasp, mounted in platinum,69.6 cm long

Accompanied by premium report No. 76783 dated 1 october 2014 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating that the 13.54 carat ruby is of Burma (Myanmar) origin and the analysed properties confirm the authenticity of a majority of these pearls to be saltwater natural pearls; Also accompanied by an appendix stating that the pearl necklace possesses extraordinary characteristics and merits special mention and appreciation. The described necklace is very impressive in its design. The natural pearls for this necklace have been carefully selected and exhibit attractive round and drop shapes, combined with a very fine and smooth pearl lustre. Their colour subtly varies in different shades of grey and brown, partly combined with a highly attractive rosé, purple and green overtones. These overtones-poetically also referred to as the orient of pearls-are due to an iridescence effect caused on the surface of pearls and greatly contribute to the exceptional beauty of this pearl necklace. assembling a matching selection of saltwater natural pearls of this size and quality is very rare, and thus the described pearl necklace with its combination of outstanding characteristics can be considered a very exceptional treasure of nature.

Accompanied by report No. 11110110 dated 22 november 2011 from the Gübelin Gemmological Laboratory stating that the 13.54 carat ruby is of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating.

Christie’s. Hong Kong Magnificent Jewels, 25 November 2014, Hong Kong, HKCEC Grand Hall