Hong Kong, May 10, 2026 – Sotheby's Hong Kong Spring 2026 Auction concluded successfully yesterday, achieving a total sale of HK$2.85 billion (approximately US$365 million), significantly exceeding pre-sale estimates. Among them, the highly anticipated “Imperial Jadeite” special sale performed exceptionally well, once again confirming the strong growth momentum of the high-end jade market.
The undisputed highlight of this auction was the “Crown of Jade” imperial green jadeite bangle, weighing 150.88 carats. After a fierce bidding war lasting over 20 minutes, it finally hammered down at an astonishing HK$580 million (approximately US$74.3 million), setting a new global auction record for a jadeite bangle. The bangle's pre-sale estimate was HK$350 million to HK$450 million, with the final selling price exceeding the upper estimate by nearly 30%. In addition, another piece named “Emerald Ripples,” an imperial green jadeite bead necklace composed of 36 full and round beads ranging from 12.5 mm to 14.8 mm in diameter, sold for HK$320 million (approximately US$41 million), also performing remarkably well.
Overall, the jadeite and jewelry special sale in this spring auction achieved a remarkable 92% sell-through rate, accounting for 45% of the total sale, reaching HK$1.28 billion. All high-quality imperial green jadeite lots were sold, mostly at high estimates or even above estimates, with an average premium rate of 25%. This data clearly indicates that amidst increasing global economic uncertainties, top-tier natural jadeite, especially imperial green jadeite, as a rare hard currency and an art piece with cultural value, its hedging and value-preserving attributes are becoming increasingly prominent.
Mr. Li Ming, a senior auction industry analyst, pointed out: “The success of Sotheby's spring auction, particularly the record-breaking sale of imperial jadeite, is not accidental. It reflects several core trends: First, the continuous pursuit of top-tier jadeite by Asian collectors, especially those from Greater China, whose wealth accumulation and aesthetic preferences are the main market drivers. Second, the growing global investment demand for rare, high-quality gemstones. Jadeite, as the 'King of Oriental Gems,' its uniqueness and non-renewability make it an ideal investment target. Finally, the professional operations of auction houses in consignment and marketing also created favorable conditions for the success of the lots.”
Ms. Yang, Chairman of Sotheby's Asia Jewelry Department, stated in a post-auction interview: “We are very pleased with the results of this spring auction, especially the performance of the Imperial Jadeite special sale, which exceeded our expectations. This once again proves the unique position of top-tier jadeite in the global collecting and investment communities. In the future, we will continue to deepen our efforts in this field, bringing more rare jadeite treasures to collectors.”
Looking ahead, market analysts generally believe that the high-end jade market, particularly imperial green jadeite, will continue to maintain a steady growth trend. With the continuous accumulation of global wealth and the pursuit of rare assets, high-quality jadeite will continue to attract the attention of collectors and investors worldwide. However, the market may also face some challenges, such as the increasing scarcity of high-quality raw materials and the potential impact of global economic fluctuations. But in the long run, its unique cultural value and scarcity will support its long-term value. Investors and collectors are advised to conduct thorough market research and seek professional advice before entering the market to ensure the stability of their investments.