Lot 2114. An exceptional Afghan Panjshir valley emerald ring, weighing approximately 10.11 carats. Estimate HKD 8,000,000 - HKD 12,000,000 (US$1,000,000-1,500,000). Price realised HKD 17,560,000. © Christie's Images Ltd 2015. 

The rectangular-shaped emerald, weighing approximately 10.11 carats, mounted in gold,ring size 7¾ 

Accompanied by report no. 82231 dated 24 September 2015 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating that the emerald is of Afghanistan origin, with no indications of clarity modification; also accompanied by an appendix stating that the natural emerald possesses exceptional characteristics and merits special mention and appreciation. The emerald is set in a ring and exhibits a beautifully saturated green colour combined with an exceptional purity. The microscopic examination revealed few inclusions, which represent the hallmarks of emeralds from the Panjshir valley in Afghanistan, an area known since historic times for gem-quality emeralds. Its saturated green colour is due to a combination of well-balanced trace elements in the stone, typical and characteristic for the finest emeralds of Afghanistan. The fact that this emerald shows no indication of clarity modification is a further sign of rarity. A natural emerald from Afghanistan of this size and quality is rare and exceptional