Hangzhou, May 18, 2026 – The highly anticipated Xiling Yinshe 2026 Spring Auction concluded successfully yesterday. This spring auction achieved a total transaction value of RMB 780 million, an increase of 15.8% compared to the same period last year, with a remarkable sell-through rate of 82.5%. This demonstrates a strong recovery trend in the art market, particularly in the high-end jadeite segment.
Jadeite Special Session Shines, Multiple Lots Set New Records
Undoubtedly, the highlight of this spring auction was the “Emerald Fragrance – Jadeite Art Masterpieces Special Session.” This session featured 65 meticulously selected jadeite lots, achieving a total transaction value of RMB 260 million, accounting for 33.3% of the total turnover, with an impressive sell-through rate of 92.3%. Among them, a piece named “Imperial Green Fortune, Longevity, and Prosperity Tri-Color Jadeite Bangle,” with its extreme color saturation, delicate texture, and perfect craftsmanship, went through multiple rounds of fierce bidding and was finally hammered at a high price of RMB 88 million, far exceeding its pre-sale estimate (RMB 50-70 million). It became the “star lot” of the auction and set a new auction record for similar jadeite bangles in the past three years.
Another “Icy Jadeite Guanyin Pendant with Vibrant Green,” known for its crystal-clear texture and exquisite carving, sold for RMB 32 million, with a premium rate of 45%. In addition, a series of high-ice and glass-grade jadeite cabochons, necklaces, and ornaments also performed well, with an average premium rate exceeding 20%. The data indicates that market demand for mid-to-high-end jadeite artworks remains robust, and buyers show great enthusiasm for jadeite treasures of excellent quality and rarity.
Market Analysis and Trend Judgment: Confidence Boost, Value Return
Mr. Wang, Executive Director and General Manager of Xiling Yinshe Auction Co., Ltd., stated in an interview: “The success of this spring auction, especially the outstanding performance of the jadeite special session, fully demonstrates a significant boost in market confidence. After experiencing an adjustment period in the past two years, the high-end art market is gradually recovering. As a uniquely charming gemstone in Eastern culture, jadeite’s scarcity, cultural attributes, and investment value have always been highly recognized. We observe that when choosing jadeite, buyers pay more attention to the comprehensive consideration of its clarity, color, craftsmanship, and theme, rather than blindly pursuing high prices. This indicates that a more rational and healthy jadeite market is taking shape.”
Professor Li, a senior jadeite market analyst, pointed out: “The gradual stabilization of the global economic situation and the increasing demand for art investment allocation among domestic high-net-worth individuals are key factors driving the success of this auction. As a hard currency, jadeite’s function of hedging and preserving value is becoming increasingly prominent in the current market environment. Especially those jadeite artworks with historical heritage, famous provenance, or unique design concepts will have more prominent collection value and appreciation potential. In the next few years, we expect the market price of high-quality jadeite to maintain a steady upward trend, while mid-to-low-end jadeite may face greater market competition pressure.”
Expert Commentary: Quality Reigns, Culture Empowers
Ms. Zhang, Vice President of the Gems & Jewelry Trade Association of China, commented: “The jadeite special session of Xiling Yinshe’s spring auction not only showcased numerous top-tier jadeite treasures but also demonstrated the auction house’s professionalism in selecting lots and its accurate grasp of market trends. The transaction price of the ‘Imperial Green Fortune, Longevity, and Prosperity Tri-Color Jadeite Bangle’ once again proves the scarcity and irreplicability of top-grade jadeite. For collectors, investing in jadeite artworks is not only a transmission of wealth but also an affirmation and promotion of Eastern aesthetics and traditional culture. In the future, we look forward to seeing more jadeite works with cultural connotations and artistic value entering the market, jointly promoting the prosperous development of jadeite culture.”
The success of this Xiling Yinshe spring auction undoubtedly injected a shot in the arm into the 2026 art market, signaling the beginning of a vibrant and opportunity-filled new collecting cycle. High-end jadeite artworks, as an important component, will continue to attract market attention.