Jewels Linked To Buddha to Be Sold At Sotheby’s Hong Kong, Despite Backlash over Ethical Concerns

On May 7, Sotheby’s Hong Kong will auction a collection of several hundred ancient Indian gem relics linked to Buddha’s mortal remains, estimated to sell for about HK$100 million (approximately $12.9 million USD). However, the sale from a private British collection has been condemned by Buddhist academics and monastic leaders. The Piprahwa Gems of the Historical Buddha date back to Mauryan Empire, Ashokan era, circa 240-200 BC and have been described by Sotheby’s as “one