[Hong Kong, October 28, 2026] Sotheby's Hong Kong Autumn 2026 Auction concluded successfully yesterday, with the 'Magnificent Jewels and Jadeite' sale performing exceptionally well. Several top-tier jadeite masterpieces fetched prices far exceeding expectations, injecting a strong dose of confidence into the currently somewhat subdued art market. The total sales for this auction reached an impressive US$285 million, with a sell-through rate of 88.5%, marking a 15% increase compared to the same period last year, indicating robust demand for high-quality collectibles.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of the auction was the much-anticipated 'Imperial Green Jadeite Bead Necklace'. This exquisite necklace, strung with 36 finely textured and intensely colored Imperial green jadeite beads, finally hammered at an astonishing US$98 million, far surpassing its pre-sale estimate of US$50 million to US$70 million, becoming the top-selling lot of the auction. According to Sotheby's Head of Jewellery, Asia, this necklace's sale price set a new five-year record for similar items, with an increase of 40%, demonstrating the rarity and appreciation potential of top-grade jadeite in the market.
Another highly anticipated lot was the 'Qianlong Imperial White Jade 'Dragon' Washer', a meticulously crafted and well-preserved court artifact, which sold for US$12.5 million, exceeding its upper estimate by 25%. Additionally, a rare 'Icy Green Jadeite Bangle' fetched US$4.5 million, 18% above its estimate. Overall, the jadeite specialist sale achieved US$160 million, accounting for 56% of the total sales, with an average sell-through rate of 92%, fully affirming the unshakeable position of top-tier jadeite in the collecting world.
Market analyst Mr. Li Ming pointed out: "The performance of jadeite in this Sotheby's autumn auction is undoubtedly a significant signal of market recovery. Amid increasing global economic uncertainties, high-quality, rare hard assets, especially jadeite with deep cultural heritage and stable value, are becoming the preferred choice for investors and collectors to hedge risks and preserve and grow wealth. The record-breaking sale of the Imperial Green Jadeite Bead Necklace further confirms the resilience and investment value of top-tier jadeite."
Mr. Nicolas Chow, Chairman of Sotheby's Asia, stated after the auction: "We are very pleased with the results of this autumn sale, particularly the strong performance of the jadeite segment. This not only reflects our rigorous selection of lots but also demonstrates the continuous passion and confidence of global collectors in traditional Chinese art, especially top-tier jadeite. We anticipate that market demand for high-quality jadeite will continue to grow in the next two years, with the value of items with clear provenance, exquisite craftsmanship, and perfect condition becoming even more prominent."
The success of this auction undoubtedly lays a solid foundation for the upcoming Spring 2027 sale and brings positive expectations to the entire art market. Industry insiders generally believe that with the gradual recovery of the global economy and the increasing maturity of art investment concepts, the jadeite market is poised for a new period of prosperity.