Editor’s Note
The record-breaking sale of the “Winter Egg” at Christie’s underscores the remarkable strength and enduring allure of the high-end jewelry market. This historic transaction not only sets a new benchmark for Fabergé but also signals robust collector demand for exceptional pieces with unparalleled provenance.
On December 2, 2025, at a Christie’s auction in London, the Russian imperial jewel “Winter Egg” (made in 1913) was sold for approximately £22.9 million (about 4.7 billion yen). This sale set a new record price for a Fabergé egg, significantly surpassing the previous high. This historical masterpiece, featuring rock crystal adorned with approximately 4,500 diamonds, exceeded its estimated sale price.
This news suggests more than just an antique transaction; it indicates a “global reassessment of the asset value of high-quality gemstones and precious metals.” Particularly in the current climate of a weak yen and fluctuating gold prices, there is a sharp increase in domestic demand to “understand the value of jewelry lying unused at home.”
Against the backdrop of this auction result, interest in jewelry has also grown domestically, leading to an increase in appraisal requests and consultations. There is a notable trend of rising demand related to life transitions such as estate organization, inheritance, and asset review. Considering currency fluctuations, the trend of liquidating held assets for cash continues.
Jewelry subject to appraisal is not limited to gold, platinum, or diamonds. Pieces like the Fabergé egg, created by traditional workshops or involving specific designers, may have their value influenced by historical context and artistry. Consequently, cases where value cannot be determined by simple weight or carat count are increasing, necessitating expert evaluation.
“Omoio” employs professional appraisers holding the “GIA-GG” qualification from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), an international authority in gemology, establishing a system capable of comprehensively evaluating the “inherent value” of each individual stone.
While many general buyers determine prices based solely on the “weight (precious metal price)” of jewelry, exceptional pieces like the Winter Egg possess value that cannot be measured by material weight alone. Our store conducts appraisals based on “multifaceted criteria,” including not only the value of precious metals like gold and platinum but also gemstone quality factors such as color, clarity, cut, and treatment, as well as design and brand rarity.
We have handled over 30,000 purchase transactions and maintain a high rating on Google reviews with over 500 reviews averaging 4.8 stars (as of December 2025). We receive many comments such as “They explained carefully, which put me at ease” and “I was surprised by the price, which exceeded my expectations,” allowing first-time users and those bringing inherited jewelry to use our services with confidence.
Furthermore, even for diamonds or gemstones without identification certificates or grading reports, or for jewelry that is broken with broken chains or missing stones, proper appraisal is possible through expert evaluation.
Even within Japan, many pieces of jewelry lie unused because their designs are considered old, or gemstones whose details are unknown after being inherited. However, as this news shows, the value of ‘authentic’ pieces that continue to shine over time does not fade.
Particularly in recent markets, cases where delicate design and rarity significantly impact valuation, beyond just the weight of precious metals, are increasing. That is precisely why comprehensive evaluation by us experts is indispensable.
Before deciding something is ‘old’ or ‘broken,’ please let us take a look. We will responsibly convey the inherent value of that jewelry, which even the owner may not be aware of.”
The value of jewelry is influenced not only by materials but also by background and craftsmanship, not limited to high-profile Fabergé pieces. Omoio can handle a wide range of appraisals, including diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and other gemstones, gold/platinum products, and brand jewelry. There are no fees or cancellation charges for appraisals, allowing customers to check value with peace of mind.
Amidst international market movements, domestic consultations to verify the value of owned jewelry are increasing.