TWO JADEITE BEAD NECKLACES, CIRCA REPUBLICAN PERIOD

Comprising two necklaces, each composed of one hundred and twenty-seven graduated jadeite beads of emerald green colour and fine translucency, completed by a gold clasp, mounted in 18 karat yellow gold, length approximately 755mm and 795mm respectively. 

Colour and Clarity: According to both Hong Kong Jadeite Jade Testing Certificates and SSEF report, the jadeite beads are natural, with no indications of impregnation, known as Type A jadeite jade in trade. SSEF appendix states that the jadeite beads are of "highly matching colour, trancluency and excellent surface quality. Their vivid but well-saturated green colour, poetically also referred to as Imperial green, is due to the presence of well-balanced trace elements in these gemstones, typical and characteristic for the finest jadeite-jade from the reputed mines close to Hpakan in Burma (Myanmar)...... Assembling a selection of jadeite-jade of this quality in colour, translucency and fine texture is very rare and exceptional." Please refer to the reports and SSEF appendix for details. In our opinion, the jadeite beads are well matched and highly translucent, of vivid, well-saturated green colour, with fine texture. Upon strong illumination, some jadeite beads have tiny dark spots or minor brownish streaks, not noticeable and not affecting the overall beauty of the necklaces. Condition: These two jadeite bead necklaces are dated back to the Republican Period, signs of wear to the clasps commensurate with age, both in good condition. IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please note that jadeite and rubies of Burmese origin and articles of jewellery containing jadeite or rubies of Burmese origin all less than 100 years old may not be imported into the US. The purchaser's inability to import any item into the U.S. or any other country as a result of these or other restrictions shall not justify cancellation or rescission of the sale or any delay in payment. Please check with the specialist department if you are uncertain as to whether a lot is subject to these import restrictions, or any other restrictions on importation or exportation.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Accompanied by Hong Kong Jade & Stone Laboratory certificates numbered KJ 81190(1-5) and KJ81191(1-5), both dated 12 August 2013, stating that the jadeites are natural, known in the trade as “A jade”. Also accompanied by SSEF certificate numbered 69131, dated 12 July 2013, stating that the jadeites are natural, with no indications of clarity modification. Further accompanied by SSEF Appendix stating that the jadeites' "vivid but well-saturated green colour, poetically also referred to as Imperial green, is due to the presence of well-balanced trace elements in these gemstones, typical and characteristic for the finest jadeite-jade from the reputed mines close to Hpakan in Burma (Myanmar)...... Assembling a selection of jadeite-jade of this quality in colour, translucency and fine texture is very rare and exceptional."