BEIJING, May 18, 2026 – The highly anticipated Poly 2026 Spring Art Auction recently concluded with remarkable success. Among the various categories, the 'Jade Splendor – Important Hetian Jade Masterpieces Special Sale,' a favorite among collectors, performed exceptionally well, achieving a total transaction volume exceeding 280 million RMB and an impressive sell-through rate of 92.5%. This significantly surpassed market expectations, once again confirming the strong growth momentum in the high-end Hetian jade market.
The special sale featured 120 meticulously selected Hetian jade lots, encompassing various origins such as Xinjiang Manasi jade and Russian jade, showcasing a rich variety of types and exquisite craftsmanship. Notably, a 'Qing Dynasty Qianlong Period Hetian Jade Carving of Immortal Mountains and Pavilions,' weighing 2.5 kilograms, fetched an astonishing 85 million RMB, far exceeding its estimated price of 50 million RMB, becoming the highest-priced lot in this special sale. According to a Poly Auction representative, the jade mountain carving boasts delicate and warm texture, rich and even color, and superb carving techniques, fully embodying imperial grandeur. Its rarity and artistic value made it a focal point for collectors.
Another highly anticipated lot was a 'Modern Russian Hetian Jade Carving of Lotus Pond Serenity,' a masterpiece meticulously crafted by a contemporary jade carving master. With its lustrous jade and vivid, lifelike carving, it ultimately sold for 22 million RMB, a 37.5% increase from its estimate. Additionally, several exquisite smaller pieces, such as Hetian jade bracelets and pendants, estimated between 5 million and 15 million RMB, also sold at prices 15% to 30% above their estimates, demonstrating strong market demand for high-quality, uniquely designed Hetian jade jewelry.
Market Analysis and Trend Forecast:
The success of Poly's Spring Auction Hetian jade special sale is not accidental; it reflects several significant trends in the current jade market. Firstly, the scarcity of high-end Hetian jade is becoming increasingly prominent, especially for old pit materials from Xinjiang Manasi and premium Russian jade, whose dwindling resources lead to continuously rising prices. Secondly, collectors' understanding of the artistic and cultural value of jade is deepening. They no longer solely focus on the material itself but also prioritize carving techniques, design, and the cultural narratives behind the pieces. Thirdly, the market shows higher trust and demand for exquisite jade pieces with clear provenance and verifiable origins.
Mr. Li Ming, a senior Hetian jade market analyst, pointed out: “In recent years, with steady economic development and enhanced cultural confidence, high-end jade, particularly Hetian jade, has become a new favorite in the art investment sector. It possesses strong value preservation and appreciation attributes, along with aesthetic and cultural value. The auction data clearly indicates a very high market recognition for top-tier Hetian jade, and even amidst certain macroeconomic challenges, quality assets can still perform against the trend.”
Expert Commentary and Market Insights:
Professor Wang Qiang, Vice President of the China Jade Culture Research Association, stated: “The Hetian jade transaction data from this Poly Spring Auction is exhilarating. Especially the Qianlong period jade mountain carving, its historical, artistic, and material values are perfectly combined, making it a rare and coveted treasure. This proves that true masterpieces will always find buyers. Simultaneously, works by contemporary jade carving masters are also highly sought after, indicating a healthy development in the inheritance and innovation of jade carving art.”
An anonymous seasoned collector, interviewed during the event, remarked: “I have always paid close attention to the high-end Hetian jade market. From this auction, it's clear that the prices for good pieces will only continue to rise. Acquiring them now is not just collecting, but also an investment. However, one must also be wary of market irregularities and prioritize reputable auction houses and expert-appraised lots.”
Looking ahead, with the popularization of jade culture and the expansion of the collector base, the high-end Hetian jade market is expected to remain active. However, the market will also become more rational. Collectors should focus more on the quality, craftsmanship, cultural connotations, and scarcity of jade when investing, rather than blindly pursuing. The excellent results of Poly Auction's Hetian jade special sale undoubtedly injected a strong boost into the 2026 jade market, heralding a new era of collection filled with opportunities and challenges.