Category: Jewellery

Miss Jewelry Hong Kong pageant dazzles in its fifth edition

Hong Kong Manufacturer’s Jewelry Association (HKJMA) recently hosted the fifth Miss Jewelry Hong Kong pageant at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Convention Hall. Held every two years, the pageant invites models with jewellery knowledge and self-confidence to be ambassadors of Hong Kong’s thriving jewellery industry.

This year, the theme of the pageant was ‘Dream with Hope’ – a theme that carries the message of positive aspirations. The dream did come true for Kimmy Low of Malaysia who was crowned the winner from all the contestants who came from Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Malaysia and Canada.

Jessica Fong, chairperson of the fifth edition of the pageant, spoke about the objective of the event, “Hong Kong is an international city which, at the same time, carries the heritage of rich Chinese tradition. That’s why Hong Kong’s jewellery designers can mix the best of two worlds to produce outstanding designs with international vision. We organise Miss Jewelry Hong Kong pageant every two years to promote Hong Kong’s jewellery industry through these beautiful and confident models.”

The event was attended by Miss Hong Kong Kate Tsui, celebrity makeup artist Gary Chung, evening gown designer Kev Yiu, actress Ankie Beilke and top models like Mikki Yao, Bobo Li and Zoey Sham.

Photo: HKJMA

Donnersmarck Diamonds: Opulent gemstones with a saucy history

Donnersmarck Diamonds were commissioned by Prussian Count for courtesan La Paiva
The Donnersmarck Diamonds were commissioned by a Prussian Count for infamous courtesan La Païva

As part of its Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels auction, Sotheby’s is offering a pair of cushion and pear-shaped diamonds weighing in at 102.54 and 82.47 carats, respectively. Colloquially known as the Donnersmarck Diamonds, the duo was estimated to fetch between US$9-$14 million when it went under the hammer in November.

Physical properties aside, they possess a unique provenance, having previously belonged to the Russian-born French courtesan La Païva. A legendary socialite who arrived in Paris at 18, La Païva was infamous for throwing decadent soirees at her hotel particulier on the Champs Elysées. After a trifling marriage to a Portuguese marquis, she settled on the Prussian industrialist Count Henckel Von Donnersmarck – among the wealthiest of Europe’s 19th century aristocrats.

Historians report that the Count was so besotted with La Païva that, after they were married in 1871, he commissioned the Donnersmarck Diamonds. Imaginatively classified by Sotheby’s as “Jewels of Noble Provenance”, they are the latest in a slew of lots dedicated to gemstones owned by aristocrats. The stones remained in the Donnersmarck family long after La Païva’s death, appearing at auction for the first time in 2007.

Images: Sotheby’s

Peace Diamond: Graff acquires massive 709-carat rough diamond

Graff announces acquisition of 709-carat Peace Diamond
Graff announces acquisition of 709-carat Peace Diamond

Hot on the heels of purchasing the gargantuan Lesedi La Rona rough diamond earlier this year, luxury jewellery atelier Graff just announced its acquisition of yet another behemoth – the 709-carat Peace Diamond. Mined in the tiny village of Koryardu, this rough diamond is the second largest of its kind to be found in Sierra Leone.

Continuing the jewellery brand’s charitable legacy, all proceeds from the Peace Diamond sale will be funnelled back into to help the people of Sierra Leone. Laurence Graff, chairman of Graff Diamonds, said, “It is an honour to have acquired this magnificent rough diamond – and that its sale will directly benefit a country in desperate need. It is always special to be able to give back to the places that provide us with these beautiful stones.”

Peace Diamond is just the latest acquisition by Graff

The luxury diamond manufacturer is an old hand at transforming large uncut stones into glittering masterpieces. The Golden Empress, a 132.55-carat fancy intense yellow diamond, and the 118.78-carat heart-shaped Graff Venus are just two such examples. There’s no word yet on what the ultimate look of Peace Diamond will be, but if Graff’s previous works are anything to go by, it’s guaranteed to be a showstopper.

Images: Graff 

Last-minute Christmas gift ideas you just can’t go wrong with

 

With the clock ticking away towards Christmas, it’s more than high time to start planning for the perfect present for our loved ones. But what do you gift to the most discerning, elegant of individuals who has everything?

Fret not, for we have for you a selection of the most luxurious gifts that is guaranteed to satisfy even the most astute sensibilities.

Festive Chopard accessories give ladies an extra reason to sparkle

Festive Chopard accessories will make your lady smile

With shopping malls filled to the brim with winter-themed products and billboards awash with seasonal slogans city-wide, Chopard’s luxury offerings truly stands out. From sparkling watches to diamond-accented jewellery, these festive Chopard accessories are sure to make that special lady smile this Christmas.

Charm the watch-loving lady in your life with the Happy Snowflakes timepiece. Part of a limited release of just 25 pieces worldwide, every aspect of this watch perfectly encapsulates the spirit and allure of winter.

Limited-edition Happy Snowflakes watch one of the festive accessories from Chopard

Delicate snowflakes have been painstakingly etched into the beautiful mother-of-pearl dial, intensified by mobile diamonds swirling within it that is reminiscent of gentle snowfall. The diamond-studded bezel and elegant white alligator leather strap finish off this seasonal sparkler’s design.

Top up your wintry look with the matching Happy Snowflakes bangle. The delicate 18-carat white gold bracelet comes with its own mobile diamond and snowflake.

Matching your festive Chopard accessories

Pieces from Chopard’s Happy Hearts collection have also been given the Christmas treatment. Gone are the colourful gems that once graced its elegant sautoir necklaces. In its place you’ll find icy set and mobile diamonds for a snowy finish. The same effect can be found in the collection’s bracelets and newly-launched stackable rings.

Give your loved one an extra reason to sparkle with these festive Chopard accessories, now available at select boutiques including ifc mall, Ocean Terminal and Prince’s Building.

Festive Christmas themed accessories replace colourful gems with icy diamonds

Limited-edition Chopard Happy Snowflakes watch – HK$550,000
Chopard Happy Snowflakes 18-carat white gold bangle – HK$34,300
Rose gold or white gold Chopard sautoir necklace with mobile diamond – HK$116,000
Rose gold or white gold Chopard ring with moving diamond – HK$23,400

Fur Fashion: These fluffy frocks are music to our shears

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With winter upon us, it’s the perfect opportunity for fashionistas to accentuate their outfits with a flash of fur! From Bottega Veneta’s mink and kidassia fur coat to a plush alpaca jacket by Marni, here are Gafencu’s top fur fashion picks this season.

Photos: Neville Lee
Fashion Direction & Styling: San Wong

Wish Upon a Star: Bulgari launches festive new campaign and charity drive

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There’s only one word to describe the festive new Wishes Factory Campaign from Bulgari: wow. Featuring stunningly creative visuals by Italian architect and designer Federico Babina, the video fully immerses viewers in the holiday spirit while evoking images of Rome under a starry night sky.

At the same time, Bulgari continues to build on its charitable endeavours with a special #SeeMyWish social media campaign. The luxury jewellery brand will donate US$1 to Save the Children every time the campaign video – which you can find at https://www.bulgari.com/en-hk/seemywish – or a wish selfie with the hashtag #SeeMyWish is shared on Facebook or Instagram.

Since 2009, the jewellery house has raised over US$70 million for Save the Children in support of youth education and empowerment, improving the lives of over one million children across the world.

So spread your joy with those less fortunate this holiday season. Log on to your social media and start sharing now!

Larry Jewelry and Lotus Arts de Vivre introduces dazzling Asian-inspired jewellery

Larry Jewelry CEO Mandy Lam and Lotus Arts de Vivre founder Rolf van Beuren jointly hosted an intimate party to unveil a stunning new collection of Asian-inspired jewellery and accessories. We caught up with Lam to learn about the collection, and what’s next for the Hong Kong jewellery company

How did the partnership between Larry Jewelry and Lotus Arts de Vivre come about?

Larry Jewelry has established itself as one of the city’s finest jewellery retailers for over fifty years. This year we implemented a new ‘Silk Road’ strategy where we will bring unique jewellery pieces from every region between China to Egypt.

Thailand was the first target of this Silk Road strategy. We scoured the country for the best jewellery house with unique designs that our clientele haven’t encountered before. Lotus Arts de Vivre and its stunning Asian-inspired creations perfectly fit our bill. 

What is your favourite piece from the Lotus Arts de Vivre collection on display?

I love the Wing Scarab Cluster Earrings with pink tourmaline diamonds. Its amazing green colour was inspired by the scarab beetles prized by ancient Egyptians.  

What other partnerships can we look forward to from Larry Jewelry?

The next instalment of our Silk Road plan focuses on China. We’re working with some extremely skilled jewellers to create a new collection with Chinese-inspired pieces. I don’t want to reveal too much, but I can tell you that pandas are one of our main themes.

What else does Larry Jewelry have planned for the future?

As you know, Larry Jewelry pieces are usually reserved for the city’s elite. Each item is only accessible to the wealthiest segment of society and worn only on special occasions. Next year we are aiming to launch a new line of jewellery that will deliver high quality designs at a more affordable price, items that you can wear everyday. This will allow us to target an even bigger market segment.

Thank you.

The Lotus Arts de Vivre collection will be available at Larry Jewelry until the end of December this year.  

Text: Tenzing Thondup
Photos: Gigi Ip, Larry Jewelry

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Make the Most of Christmas with Gafencu’s Exclusive Luxury Gift Selection

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With December nearly here, it’s almost time to spread a little festive cheer. This year, why not delight your loved ones with the perfect gift from the Gafencu E-Shop‘s selection of exclusive luxury lifestyle products?

And there’s even more reason to celebrate. From elegant jewellery and limited-edition accessories to the most debonair of timepieces, every item in the Gafencu online collection is available at a special Christmas promotional price.

Log on to the Gafencu E-Shop today and discover just what our carefully-curated selection of exclusive luxury goods has in store for you and for those you cherish.

King of the Rings: ‘Pigeon blood’ rubies rule the roost

From a ‘pigeon blood’ ruby to an incandescent blue paraiba tourmaline, Sotheby’s recent auction items were quite the royal affair. Among the lots sold at the recent Magnificent Jewels and Jadeite Autumn Sale in Hong Kong, two opulent rings stood out.

The first is the Maniraja (“King of Jewels”) ruby – mounted and designed by acclaimed jeweller Bhagat. Unearthed from the legendary mines of Burma, the Maniraja weighs 13.26 carats and went for HK$81.7 million. Size aside, its most breathtaking feature is its vivid colour – the main factor that connoisseurs consider when assessing value. The deeper the hue, the more coveted the ruby. The Maniraja’s flawless cut intensifies its deep crimson, earning it the prestigious tag of ‘pigeon’s blood’. According to Burmese tradition, the finest rubies are the colour of a freshly killed pigeon’s first drops of blood. This rather ghastly metaphor has since been standardised by Swiss gemstone-certifying agencies.

While the paraiba tourmaline and diamond ring is less costly than its crimson counterpart, it’s still valued at HK$10 million. Since the stone was discovered in the 1980s, its mines in Brazil’s Paraiba state have been exhausted. For every 10,000 diamonds mined, there’s only one paraiba, making it truly one-of-a-kind.