A pair of rare 5.23 and 5.13 carats Burma "pigeon's blood red" ruby and diamond ear pendants. © Christie's Image 2011

Each set with an oval-shaped ruby weighing 5.23 and 5.13 carats, within a marquise-cut diamond surround, accented by circular-cut rubies, joined to the trefoil diamond surmount each set with a pear-shaped diamond weighing 0.96 and 0.95 carat, mounted in 18k white gold, 3.9 cm long - Lot 3278. Estimate HK$13,500,000 - HK$20,000,000 ($1,700,000-2,500,000). Price Realized HK$16,340,000 ($2,110,200)

Accompanied by two reports nos. 11037080 and 11037081 dated 16 March 2011 from the Gübelin Gemmological Laboratory stating that the 5.23 and 5.13 carat ruby is of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating and this colour variety may also be called "pigeon's blood red" in the trade

Also accompanied by two reports nos. 58207 and 58208 dated 17 January 2011 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating that the 5.229 and 5.135 carat ruby is of Burma (Myanmar) origin, with no indications of heating; also accompanied by an appendix stating that the two rubies possess extraordinary characteristics and merits special mention and appreciation. The rubies exhibit a well-saturated colour combined with a pleasant cutting style. Inclusions found by microscopic inspection represent the hallmarks of the Burmese deposits (Myanmar). Natural Burmese rubies of this quality represent a great rarity and its combination of outstanding characteristics is a very exceptional treasure

Accompanied by thirteen reports from the Gemological Institute of America stating that the thirteen pear and marquise-cut diamonds weighing from 0.96 to 0.50 carats range from D to F colour, internally flawless to VS2 clarity
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Christie's. HONG KONG MAGNIFICENT JEWELS, 31 May 2011, Convention Hall