Wenhao Yu

As former Chairman of Jewelry and Watches for Asia at Sotheby’s, Wenhao Yu brings nearly two decades of auction expertise, driving innovation and cross-disciplinary collaborations. His footprints span Asia and the Americas/Europe, with extensive travels including visits to Myanmar and Guatemala—key origins of jadeite—to source and promote top-quality gems.

Being the first to officially introduce “imperial green” grading in jadeite auction, he curated China’s inaugural high-end jewelry and watches auction, setting records such as the highest price per carat for any gemstone with the Williamson Pink Star diamond at USD 5 million/ct in 2022, and an imperial green jadeite bangle at USD 7.6 million in 2017. Wenhao pioneered online auctions amid the pandemic, achieving three consecutive 100% sell-through rates and over 40% growth. He introduced cryptocurrency payments, enabling multiple important sales of 100-carat diamonds.

A global advocate for jadeite, Wenhao has closely collaborated with leading laboratories – SSEF, Gübelin, and organisations such as GEM-A to promote international standards for jadeite grading and its valuation. Since 2010, he has hosted exhibitions and educational events across Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Europe, and America, fostering acclaimed cross-industry partnerships.

A dedicated philanthropist supporting UNICEF, amfAR, and others, Wenhao now leverages emerging technologies at Paraqon Group to advance e-commerce, sustainable jewelry at auction, rare gemstone private sales, and next-generation art and education to connect and serve trade and private collectors.