Bids for jewellery seized from Fujian gang total about $5m; Hermes bracelet attracts $360k offer
SINGAPORE — Bids for 286 pieces of fine jewellery seized in Singapore’s landmark $3 billion money laundering case ranged from $750 to $360,000 as the second online auction for the confiscated goods closed on Sept 27.Diamonds dominated the proceedings, which saw bidders put up about $5 million for all the items available. A last-minute flurry of bids for an Hermes bracelet studded with 263 diamonds that totalled 30.31 carats saw its bid price climb up to $360,000 in the final seconds.In close second was a 15.02-carat “fancy yellow” diamond ring that attracted a final offer of $230,000.At the other end of the spectrum, the cheapest items were a pair of children’s rings made of gold, as well as a diamond solitaire ring. Both sold for $750.The most sought-after item was a jewellery set from Dior. Comprising a diamond necklace, bangle, earrings and ring, it attracted 72 bids and sold for $125,000.Bidding for the items began closing from 4pm, with the latest items left on auction scheduled to conclude after 8pm.