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To the gemologist, sapphires are an aluminum oxide with the generic name of corundum. A sapphire’s color is derived from microscopic traces of titanium and iron oxide and crystallizes in the trigonal subdivision of the hexagonal system. Its hardness is second to that of a diamond. To collectors, sapphires and more specifically, Kashmir sapphires, there is only one meaning – the most magnificent blue color and the most sought after and valuable of sapphires known to man. Highly prized in Ancient Rome, sapphires in their early history were found in Sri Lanka (still a rich source of gems) and much sought after amongst the Roman elite. Carved as cameos and strung as beads, sapphires symbolized power and wealth.From the thirteenth century on, great sapphires began to appear in crown jewels throughout Europe, but it was not until the end of the nineteenth century that the world was to witness the extraordinary richness and color of sapphires from Kashmir, a northern province of India. Discovered after a landslide in 1882, the world’s most sought after source of sapphires lasted only fifty years. From then on production became erratic because of problematic weather conditions and the eroding relations between India and Pakistan.Kashmir sapphires command a much higher price premium than all other sapphires, not only for their rarity, but also for their rich, velvety blue color that has a mesmerizing quality. Christie’s is proud to present the following eight lots which include ten Kashmir sapphires of various sizes and shapes. With antique and contemporary examples, each lot is a lovely addition to a colored gemstone collector’s prized assemblage.PROPERTY OF A GENTLEMAN
SAPPHIRE RING
細節
SAPPHIRE RING
Cushion-shaped cabochon sapphire of 11.01 carats, 18k white gold, ring size 9 ½
Gübelin, 2018, report no. 1804005: 11.01 carats, Kashmir, no indications of heating, with information sheet
SSEF, 2018, report no. 98934: 11.017 carats, Kashmir, no indications of heating
Cushion-shaped cabochon sapphire of 11.01 carats, 18k white gold, ring size 9 ½
Gübelin, 2018, report no. 1804005: 11.01 carats, Kashmir, no indications of heating, with information sheet
SSEF, 2018, report no. 98934: 11.017 carats, Kashmir, no indications of heating