A spectacular selection of quality diamonds and fine gems will be offered at a Spring auction on May 2 in Hong Kong, announced Sotheby's Hong Kong on Tuesday.

On Tuesday afternoon's media preview, a superb Kashmir sapphire and diamond necklace became the main focus.

The necklace was beautifully mounted with a matching suite of eight cushion-shaped Kashmir sapphires of over 70 carats in total. Its price is estimated at 23 million HK dollars (about 2.9 million US dollars).

Two white diamonds to be put on sale were recognized as "best of the best," not only because they have the best color and flawless clarity, but also they are certified as having excellent polish and symmetry. One of them was 18.3 carats in pear shape, estimated about 9 million HK dollars (about one million US dollars); the other was a 10.5 carats diamond with an estimated price of about 5 million HK dollars (about 640,000 US dollars).

Among the highlights of jadeite jewels, there was a suite of jadeite and diamond necklace and earrings designed by Christian Tse, one of America's celebrity designer.

This exclusive and unique design, estimated about 7 million HK dollars (about 900,000 US dollars) was inspired by the chrysanthemum, an auspicious flower for Chinese New Year celebrations.

Mounted in diamonds, the center of each articulated flowers incorporates an exquisite jadeite cabochon of vivid green color with wonderful translucency and texture.