Sotherby’s auctioned off an emerald cut 6.04 carat fancy vivid blue diamond ring which commanded the highest price per carat paid at auction for any stone in history. The auction was held in Hong Kong, and the diamond originated from South Africa, as is the case with almost all blue diamonds. The stone boasts a clarity of internally flawless (IF), and it is showcased in a simple platinum ring with an emerald cut white diamond flanking each side of the center stone. The winning bid was made by Moussaieff Jewelers of London, a very esteemed and respected firm; known for such acquisitions as the Moussaieff Red, and many other extraordinarily costly stones. The stone was sold by a private Asian collector. The diamond sold for $7.98 million USD, or $1.32 million per carat. The prior record at auction was $926,000 per carat for the Hancock Red, a natural red diamond sold in 1987.
This represents a very important statement about the current market demand of natural fancy colored diamonds, and the rapidly increasing popularity they have gained in recent years among serious collectors.
A Reuters video of the stone can be found here. This is the best video I have found to show the stone’s true color. Note the dim lighting in the picture below, the stone is actually a true bright vivid blue.
6.04 ct, IF, fancy vivid blue diamond – sets new auction record.
