The recent Baselworld in Switzerland saw the launch of many lust-worthy timepieces from luxury labels the likes of Dior, Chanel and Bulgari, along with high-tech smartwatches packed with features such as fitness trackers and GPS. But the annual exhibition didn’t disappoint on the jewellery front, either. From stunning pearl creations at Mikimoto, to whimsical heart-shaped designs at Chopard, jewellery aficionados were spoilt for choice.
There was one jewel, however, that particularly stood out: A magnificent necklace named the Grand Phoenix, which was presented by ruby company Faidee. The necklace is valued at an eye-watering US$35 million (S$49 million), and is adorned with 59.83 carats of rare, unheated Burmese rubies.
To be exact, it features 24 “pigeon’s blood” rubies weighing between one and six carats each. “Pigeon’s blood” rubies are highly sought-after because of their rarity and naturally vivid colour.
These rubies are flanked by 100 carats of flawless diamonds, which have been meticulously positioned to form delicate floral motifs. The crimson stones were apparently collected over four generations of the Lunia family, which runs Faidee. The latter was founded about 100 years ago, and specialises in Burmese and Kashmiri rubies.
It is certainly no stranger to headline-making jewels: Last December, its 10.05-carat “Ratnaraj” ruby sold for an impressive US$10 million (S$14 million) at a Christie’s auction. Clearly, the brand has upped the ante with its latest design, which costs more than twice that amount.
From August 1 to 21, the Grand Phoenix ruby necklace — along with many other rare rubies in Faidee’s repertoire — will take centre stage at an exhibition held by Monaco jeweller Stardust Monte Carlo at the Hôtel Hermitage in Monte Carlo. Looks like we have good reason to visit Monaco this summer.
Sara Yap is passionate about all things dining and jewellery, and is constantly seeking out exciting restaurants and glittering trinkets. When she’s not feasting in the name of work, chatting with talented chefs, or daydreaming about coloured diamonds, she’s probably binge-watching the latest Netflix series or indulging in her guilty pleasure — Hollywood celebrity gossip. Sara is a journalism graduate from Nanyang Technological University and her work has appeared in The Business Times Lifestyle and Prestige Singapore magazine.
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