A woman accidentally dropped and damaged a gemstone worth approximately US$50,000 (HK$390,000) at the Hong Kong International Jewelry Show, drawing significant attention online.
The incident was first reported on the social media platform Xiaohongshu, where an attendee described how the woman, possibly jostled by someone in the crowd, lost grip of the gem. The gemstone slipped from her hands and hit the ground during the event.
Footage from the scene showed visible damage to the gem, including a broken corner. Many online users speculated that the gemstone was a highly sought-after Rubellite.
A long-haired woman, believed to be responsible for dropping the gem, was seen explaining the incident to the police.
Authorities confirmed that they received a report about the case from a female staff member. The incident involved a 54-year-old woman and occurred around 6 p.m. on Friday (March 7).
The situation was ultimately resolved when the woman agreed to purchase items of equal value from the vendor’s stall. Police classified the case as a personal dispute, stating that it was unrelated to the exhibition’s marketing or display arrangements.
In response to inquiries from Sing Tao Headline, the sister publication of The Standard, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining order and security at the event. The council stated that staff and security personnel were present to handle the situation.
The 41st Hong Kong International Jewelry Show, held alongside the 11th Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, attracted over 82,000 buyers from 141 countries and regions. According to the HKTDC, approximately 51,000 attendees came specifically for the Jewelry Show, with an increase in buyers from ASEAN, the Middle East, Western Europe, and North America.
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