【Hong Kong, November 20, 2026】Christie's Hong Kong's Autumn Sale 2026 concluded successfully, achieving a new record total of HK$2.56 billion, significantly exceeding pre-sale estimates. The Jewels and Jadeite section, in particular, performed exceptionally well, with a total sale value of HK$780 million and a remarkable sell-through rate of 89%, demonstrating the strong demand and resilience of the high-end jadeite market, especially for top-tier jadeite.
The undisputed highlight of this auction was a collection of rare jadeite cabochons. Among them, a natural untreated Burmese 'Imperial Green' jadeite cabochon ring, estimated at HK$80 million to HK$120 million, was hammered down at HK$155 million, reaching a final price of HK$186 million including buyer's premium. This represents a 55% premium over the high estimate, setting a new auction record for similar jadeite cabochons. The cabochon weighs 15.2 carats, boasting rich and even color, fine and warm texture, and exceptional translucency, truly a masterpiece of jadeite. Another set of five matching Imperial Green jadeite cabochons forming a necklace sold for HK$98 million, also far exceeding its high estimate of HK$60 million, marking a 63% increase. Overall, all jadeite cabochons estimated over HK$10 million in this auction were successfully sold, with an average selling price exceeding their estimates by over 35%.
Zhang Ming, a seasoned auction industry journalist, commented: "The success of Christie's Autumn Sale, especially the outstanding performance of the jadeite cabochon segment, once again confirms the value of top-tier jadeite as a scarce resource and a hard asset. Amid increasing global economic uncertainties, high-net-worth collectors' demand for art and jewelry with potential for value preservation and appreciation remains robust. The rarity and irreplicability of Imperial Green jadeite make it a focal point for collectors."
Li Hua, a jadeite market analyst, pointed out: "Based on the auction data, the market highly recognizes high-quality, clearly sourced, and untreated natural jadeite. Particularly, large-carat, pure-colored, and finely textured jadeite cabochons have maintained a steady upward price trend. We anticipate this trend will continue in the coming years, especially for jadeite pieces with historical provenance or unique design elements, whose collection value and investment potential will be further highlighted. Concurrently, the acceptance of jadeite among the younger generation of collectors is gradually increasing, injecting new vitality into the market."
This auction also featured other exquisite jadeite pieces, such as a pair of icy-type vibrant green jadeite bangles, which sold for HK$35 million, a 25% increase over the estimate; and a Qing Dynasty jadeite carving, which fetched HK$12 million, demonstrating the stable market for antique jadeite. Overall, Christie's Autumn Sale 2026 achieved remarkable results in the jadeite sector, not only solidifying its leading position in the high-end jewelry auction market but also instilling confidence in the global jadeite market. It is widely believed that the value of top-tier jadeite will continue to rise in the foreseeable future, becoming an important component of asset allocation for high-net-worth individuals.