An iconic Cartier bracelet with 63.66 carats of pear-shaped D color, internally flawless diamond set on rock crystal is expected to fetch between HK$40 million and HK$65 million (US$5.16 million and US$8.39 million) at Sotheby’s Hong Kong’s sale of magnificent jewels in April.

Taking nearly 2,000 hours to create, the bangle-bracelet from the collection “L’Odyssée de Cartier —Parcours d’un Style,” pays homage to an Art Deco inspiration featuring sparkling stones and the French maison’s emblematic panther, orchid, and Oriental motifs.

Louis Cartier, the brand’s third-generation jeweler was a pioneer in working with rock crystal, which became popular in the 1920s. Cartier utilized a polishing technique from the Renaissance period to give a soft shine to rock crystal which, when paired with a diamond, creates an intriguing light effect.

The unique piece “combines a phenomenal diamond, mesmerizing design and impeccable craftsmanship, and represents a high jewelry collectible that will shine through time,” Wenhao Yu, deputy chairman of jewelry at Sotheby’s Asia, said in a statement.

Also on offer is “Circle of Happiness,” a bangle made of 277.7 carats of green jadeite-jade from Myanmar. Sotheby’s did not disclose the estimate of this bracelet.

Sotheby’s sale of magnificent jewels will also feature pieces from the houses of Boucheron, Bulgari, Chanel, Chopard, Graff, Harry Winston, Hermès, Van Cleef & Arpels, and more.

“The appetite for high-quality jewels has never been stronger in Asia, with discerning collectors looking for rare diamonds and gemstones, as well as unique and iconic designs,” Yu said.

Source: DCLA