Known as the Light of Peace Diamond, a pear-shaped brilliant-cut D color diamond was sold for $US13.6 million ($AU20.15 million) at Christie’s Magnificent Jewels auction in New York.
The 126-carat internally flawless diamond was expected to return at least $US15 million, falling narrowly short of its pre-sale estimate.
“Exceptional diamonds, like exceptional houses, are always given names, and Christie’s leads off its spring New York jewelry auction with a great example,” writes Carol Besler of Forbes,
The source of the diamond is unconfirmed and was simply listed as ‘West Africa’ when it was purchased by the Zale Corporation in 1969.
It’s believed the diamond was discovered in Sierra Leone.
One highlight of that auction was a ruby and diamond bracelet by Van Cleef & Arpels, named Jarretière, which actress Marlene Dietrich wore in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1950 film stage fright,
The bracelet garnered $US4.5 million ($AU6.67 million), reaching its top estimate. In total, the auction returned $US50.7 million ($AU75.1 million).
More reading
Stunning Bulgari blue diamond brings in $37.9 million
The Pink Dawn, Heidi Horten collection headed for auction
Stunning Patek Phillipe sets new world record at auction
Iconic Princess Diana jewelery collection heads to auction
