International News
Christie’s to Auction $12M Kashmir Sapphire Ring in Hong Kong
Rare 35.09-Carat Sapphire Leads Magnificent Jewels Sale Featuring High-Value Colored Diamonds and Designer Pieces

A rare Kashmir sapphire ring valued at up to HKD 95 million ($12.2 million) is set to headline Christie’s Magnificent Jewels auction in Hong Kong on May 27. The ring, featuring a 35.09-carat antique cushion-shaped royal blue sapphire surrounded by round diamonds, is expected to be the star lot among 129 pieces offered at the event.
Previously, the sapphire ring gained international attention after selling for $7.4 million at Christie’s Geneva in 2015—well above its high estimate—and was also featured in the auction house’s New York sale in 2000.
Colored gemstones dominate the top end of the upcoming auction, with half of the top 10 lots featuring fancy-colored diamonds. Among them is a ring with a 13.22-carat Burmese ruby flanked by diamond side stones, estimated to reach up to HKD 80 million ($10.3 million). Another standout is a ring showcasing a 4.08-carat fancy-vivid-purple-pink diamond, expected to fetch as much as HKD 58 million ($7.4 million).
Other highlights include:
- A pair of Kashmir sapphire earrings with stones weighing 9.18 and 8.33 carats, estimated at HKD 28 million ($3.6 million).
- A ring featuring a 3.48-carat fancy-deep-blue diamond with pink and white accents, estimated at HKD 24 million ($3.1 million).
- A Cartier necklace with rare colored diamonds and natural pearls, valued at up to HKD 18 million ($2.3 million).
- Jewelry sets from Asprey and other designers featuring vivid yellow diamonds and Burmese rubies, each expected to reach up to HKD 18 million and HKD 15 million ($2.3 million and $1.9 million), respectively.
- A 20.02-carat D-flawless unmounted diamond, estimated at HKD 15 million ($1.9 million).
- A floral ring by Moussaieff centered on a fancy-purplish-red diamond, also projected to sell for as much as HKD 15 million.
In addition to marquee gems, Christie’s will offer several pieces with no reserve and others from renowned houses like Cartier, Harry Winston, Bulgari, and Tiffany & Co., reflecting continued global interest in high-end, collectible jewels.


International News
Gold continues upward march;Bank of America forecasts $5,000/oz for 2026

Gold prices in India saw a modest rise on Wednesday today Oct 15, mirroring an uptick in international markets as renewed US-China trade tensions and expectations of further US interest rate cuts bolstered demand for safe-haven assets.24k gold traded at Rs.1,28,360/10gm after gaining ₹10 in early trade, while silver prices increased by Rs.100 to Rs.1,89,100 per kilogram.
Gold prices surged to a record high of $4,179.48 per ounce on October 14, 2025. Investors flocked to safe-haven metals amid trade tensions and Fed rate-cut expectations. U.S. December gold futures jumped 57% year-to-date. Bank of America raised its 2026 gold forecast to $5,000 per ounce, warning of possible near-term corrections.
Gold prices soared to an unprecedented $4,179.48 per ounce on October 14, 2025, marking a historic milestone for the yellow metal. The rally comes as investors worldwide seek safety in hard assets amid a turbulent global economic backdrop marked by escalating trade tensions, slowing growth, and expectations of further interest rate cuts by the U.S. Federal Reserve.
The sharp surge in bullion prices has been driven by a combination of macroeconomic uncertainty and aggressive monetary easing. As inflation pressures remain sticky and central banks pivot toward dovish policies, gold has reasserted its role as a hedge against both currency debasement and market volatility.
In futures trading, U.S. December gold contracts have skyrocketed nearly 57% so far this year, underscoring the strength of investor demand across both institutional and retail segments. Analysts note that central bank buying—particularly from emerging markets—has added further momentum to the rally, with several countries diversifying reserves away from the U.S. dollar.
Reflecting this bullish sentiment, Bank of America has raised its 2026 gold price forecast to $5,000 per ounce, citing continued monetary easing, geopolitical instability, and robust central bank accumulation. However, the bank also cautioned that short-term corrections are likely, given the rapid pace of the recent run-up and potential bouts of profit-taking.
Overall, gold’s meteoric rise underscores a broader shift toward safe-haven assets, as investors navigate a world increasingly defined by economic fragmentation, shifting interest rate cycles, and persistent geopolitical risks.
-
National News6 hours ago
Senco Gold & Diamonds launches affordable 9k gold jewellery starting under ₹7,000, a Game-changer amid fluctuating gold prices this Dhanteras
-
BrandBuzz5 hours ago
Mavitrra Launches “The Amara Collection” – A Timeless Celebration of Bridal Grandeur and Festive Luxury
-
Education7 hours ago
Indian jewellery trade and industry expectations & trends
-
GlamBuzz10 hours ago
Dazzling Divas and Star Power: Inside Manish Malhotra’s Grand Diwali Celebration