Phillips to Auction 45-Carat Yellow Diamond
The stone features rare step-cut faceting and is estimated to sell for up to $3.5 million.

A 45.07-carat fancy vivid yellow diamond will be on offer at its jewelry auction scheduled for June 12 in New York.
It is estimated to sell for $2.8 million to $3.5 million.
The stone features step-cut faceting, which is unusual in a fancy colored diamond, as cutters typically prefer alternative cuts that create the illusion of greater color saturation.
“The fact that this step-cut diamond maintained a fancy vivid yellow color grade, an even color distribution, excellent polish and symmetry, and is an impressive 45.07 carats is a testament to the superlative quality of the rough diamond material from which it is derived,” Phillips said.
“This is truly an exceptional mineral specimen.”
Other colored gemstones, as well as period jewelry and signed jewels, are among the 125 lots up for sale.
Highlights include a 4.01-carat fancy intense green diamond estimated to fetch up to $350,000 and a Cartier ring featuring a 3.07-carat light blue diamond with a pre-sale estimate of $200,000 to $300,000.
Eva Violante, Phillips head of jewels for the Americas, said the auction house is excited to present a strong offering.
“There has been a clear demand for exceptional jewels and gemstones that span the century, evidenced by the strong results in both Geneva and Hong Kong, as well as the enthusiasm we have seen across the globe during our international tour,” said Violante.
“We are proud to offer our collectors such a magnificent array of jewels that embody the very best the category has to offer.”
A highlight of the colored gemstone offerings is a ring with a 12-carat Ceylon sapphire center stone flanked by two triangular-shaped diamonds. Its pre-sale estimate is $100,000 to $150,000.
A Colombian emerald and diamond ring is also a standout piece. The auction house estimates it could sell for up to $120,000.
The piece, circa 1953, features a gold wave fringe design set with diamonds. Its pre-sale estimate is $40,000 to $60,000.
The necklace comes with a report from the International Antique Jewelers Association stating it was made by Georges Lenfant, a premier gold craftsman of the 20th century.
A pair of emerald and diamond earclips from Bulgari (est. $24,000 to $38,000), as well as a pair of quartz and ceramic cufflinks by Taffin (est. $3,000 to $5,000) also will be offered.
A highlight of the sale’s selection of period jewels is an antique diamond tiara.
The late 19th century piece is set with circular-cut diamonds and converts to a fringe necklace. It’s estimated to sell for $24,000 to $36,000.
Also from the late 19th century is a René Lalique art nouveau enamel and pearl pendant. The 1896 piece features a jester design with a suspended pearl. The pendant is estimated to fetch up to $15,000.
An antique Etruscan Revival necklace from 1875 that features alternating beaded rod pendants and leaves will be offered as well. Its pre-sale estimate is $5,000 to $7,000.
Viewings will take place at 432 Park Ave. in New York from now through June 11.
To see more of the lots offered, visit Phillips website.
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