One of the most famous diamonds in the world – a 76-carat diamond, perfect in color, with flawless internal clarity is expected to fetch well over $15 million at Christie’s auction in Geneva on November 13th. This stunning gem created an auction sensation when Christie’s Geneva offered it for sale for the first time in November, back in 1993, where it realized a total of $10.5 million. While the auction house provided the $15 million figure, an official estimate will only be provided upon request.
This finest and largest perfect Golconda diamond ever to appear at auction was named the Archduke Joseph Diamond after its one-time owner Archduke Joseph August Viktor Klemens Maria (1872-1962), a prince descended from the Habsburg Dynasty. It comes from India’s ancient Golconda mines, the source of such legendary gems as the Koh-i-noor, the Hope, and the Regent. According to the auction house, “Golconda diamonds have a special whiteness often described as soft, watery, and pure, so that light appears to pass through the stone completely unimpeded.”
“The magic of auction sometimes brings back great gems to our salerooms more than once,” François Curiel, international head of Christie’s jewelry department, said in a statement said. “In November, we have the privilege to give both new and established collectors the opportunity to own a piece of history once again.”
The diamond will be auctioned in Geneva on November 13, following an exhibition tour in New York, Hong Kong and Geneva.
