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Lot Essay
KASHMIR SAPPHIRES
The mines of Kashmir were discovered in 1881 when a landslide in the northwestern Himalayas unearthed sapphire-bearing rocks. Majority of the world's most beautiful and highest-valued sapphires were mined in the region. They are reputed for their rich, cornflower blue colour, a velvety blue reminiscent of the gorgeous hue of a peacock's neck, giving them a legendary status. By 1887, the initial mine was exhausted and since then there has only been sporadic activity. Today, while there are fine stones on the market, their supply is very limited and gem-quality Kashmir sapphires, such as lot 322, are extremely rare.
The mines of Kashmir were discovered in 1881 when a landslide in the northwestern Himalayas unearthed sapphire-bearing rocks. Majority of the world's most beautiful and highest-valued sapphires were mined in the region. They are reputed for their rich, cornflower blue colour, a velvety blue reminiscent of the gorgeous hue of a peacock's neck, giving them a legendary status. By 1887, the initial mine was exhausted and since then there has only been sporadic activity. Today, while there are fine stones on the market, their supply is very limited and gem-quality Kashmir sapphires, such as lot 322, are extremely rare.