【Beijing, May 18, 2026】China Guardian's 2026 Spring Auction concluded successfully yesterday, with the highly anticipated 'Magnificent Jewels and Jadeite' specialist sale performing exceptionally well. The total transaction volume reached RMB 320 million, with a remarkable sell-through rate of 88.5%, significantly exceeding market expectations. The success of this auction not only highlights the strong resilience of the high-end jadeite jewelry market but also injects new vitality into the future art market.
A total of 268 lots were presented in this special session, with 15 lots fetching prices exceeding RMB 10 million. The most striking was a natural 'Imperial Green' jadeite cabochon and diamond ring, weighing 28.5 carats. After multiple rounds of intense bidding, it was finally hammered at RMB 82 million, a premium of 36.6% over its upper estimate (RMB 60 million), becoming the highest-priced lot of the sale. Another 'Icy Green' jadeite bead necklace, estimated at RMB 25 million to RMB 35 million, comprising 38 full-bodied beads with diameters ranging from 12 mm to 14 mm, ultimately sold for RMB 48.5 million, an increase of 38.6%. Additionally, a uniquely designed Qing Dynasty jadeite carving, 'Fu Shou Shuang Quan' (Blessings and Longevity), fetched RMB 12.8 million, exceeding its estimate by 28%.
Ms. Li Ming, Head of China Guardian's Jewelry and Watches Department, stated in an interview: "The outstanding performance of the jadeite jewelry section in this spring auction fully demonstrates the strong market demand for top-quality and rare jadeite. Especially those treasures with excellent translucency, color, clear provenance, and exquisite craftsmanship, their value remains robust regardless of market fluctuations. We have observed that the buyer base is becoming younger and more international, not only focusing on the intrinsic value of the material but also increasingly paying attention to the artistry and design of the pieces."
Mr. Wang Qiang, a senior jewelry market analyst, pointed out: "The data from the 2026 spring auction, particularly the brilliant results in the jadeite jewelry sector, convey several key signals. Firstly, the expectation of global economic recovery has led high-net-worth individuals to re-tilt their investment preferences towards hard assets, and jadeite, as a rare and culturally rich gemstone, naturally becomes a top choice. Secondly, after two years of market adjustments, some speculative buyers have exited, leaving behind more capable and discerning collectors, which makes the market structure healthier. Thirdly, the supply of high-quality jadeite is becoming increasingly scarce, especially with stricter policies on jadeite rough mining in Myanmar. The prices of existing fine pieces will continue to rise. It is expected that in the next three to five years, the price of top-tier jadeite will maintain a steady annual growth of 5% to 10%."
The success of this auction also reflects that confidence in the overall Chinese art market is gradually recovering. Despite ongoing global economic uncertainties, the strong domestic demand and the trend of upgrading cultural consumption in mainland China provide solid support for high-end art and luxury goods. Experts generally believe that as consumers pursue personalization, rarity, and value preservation, jadeite jewelry, as a category with both investment and collection value, will further unleash its market potential. China Guardian's excellent results in this spring auction undoubtedly set a positive tone for the upcoming autumn auction, signaling a more active and healthy art market outlook.