Lot 2080. A superb pair of antique Colombian emerald bangles, 1900s, India. Estimate HKD 10,200,000 - HKD 15,000,000 (USD 1,300,000 - USD 2,000,000). Price realised HKD 15,700,000. © Christies Images Ltd 2017

Each set with twenty-three graduated rectangular-cut emeralds, in a raised openwork scrolling gold mount, 1900s, India, inner circumference 16.2 cm, in two red leather fitted case bearing the initial 'B'.

Accompanied by report no. 79094 dated 18 March 2015 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating that the 46 emeralds are of Colombian origin, with indications of none to moderate amount of oil; accompanied by an appendix stating that the pair of emerald bangles possesses exceptional characteristics and merits special mention and appreciation. The 46 emeralds have been carefully selected and exhibit a well-matching and attractive saturated green colour. The small inclusions found by microscopic examination represent the hallmarks of Colombian emeralds from the famous mining areas Muzo, Coscuez,and Chivor, all located in the green foothills of the Cordillera Oriental in the Colombian Andes. Its attractive and saturated green colour is due to a combination of well-balanced trace elements in the stone, typical and characteristic for the finest emeralds of Colombia. The pair of emerald bangles is exceptional not only due to the matching of their colour and quality, but also due to the fact that they have remained in pristine original condition for over one hundred years

Christie's. Hong Kong Magnificent Jewels & The Pink Promise, 28 November 2017, Hong Kong