Modelled as a turtle-dragon, the shell designed as an openwork frame set with circular-cut diamonds together weighing approximately 3.50 carats, enclosing an oval cabochon rubellite weighing 438.40 carats, accented by tsavorite garnet-set eyes, mounted in 18 karat pink gold, rubellite detachable. 

Colour and Clarity: According to GRS report, the cabochon rubelite is natural, with no indication of treatments. Please refer to the report for details. In our opinion, the rubelite is of medium deep purple red colour, slightly to moderately included to naked eyes. Under 10x loupe with illumination, there are some needles and fingerprint incluions, not noticeable to naked eyes in normal lighting. Two tsavorite garnets are of intense grass green colour, eye clean. Diamonds are about H to I colours, VS clarity. Condition: Karat pink gold mount, the diamond-set cage can be opened to review the entire cabochon rubelite, detailed craftsmanship on the suspicious mystic "turtle-dragon", overall in excellent condition.
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 a GRS report numbered GRS2014-088130, dated 7 August 2014, stating that the 438.40 carat rubellite is natural, with no indication of thermal treatment. Also accompanied by a wooden box.

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DRAGON-TURTLE

According to legend, dragon-tur🐎tle is one of the Dragon’s nine sons and the most auspicious beasts in all Chinese myths and legends. Wise and eloquent, the dragon-turtle emanates an aura which draws the good and wards off the evil, granting its bearer good health an⭕d longevity.

The spiritual chimera is the union of a dragon and a turtle, embodying the honourable traits of both animals – ferocious in face of evi𒉰l with a forbearing nature. Its turtle tail and back protects against all vices, and its dragon head symbolizes good blessings. Th✅at is the reason why dragon-turtle was much loved by emperors throughout history, further testified by the pair of dragon-turtles found resting at the gates of The Imperial Palace of Beijing.

To be offered is a paperweight finely carved out of gold, vividly forged as a dragon-turtle that encapsulates a precious rubellite weighing over 400 carats, affording its owner peace, luck and immeasurable wealth.