Auctions

Sotheby’s will try to sell historic pink diamond

AuctionsAug 12, 2016

Sotheby’s will try to sell historic pink diamond

The 8.72-carat fancy vivid stone is believed to have belonged to Princess Mathilde, niece of Napoleon Bonaparte.


The Historic Pink Diamond “takes its place amongst fabled vivid pink gems” known in the world, the GIA said when assessing the stone.
Geneva--A fancy vivid pink diamond that is believed to have been part of the collection of Napoleon Bonaparte’s niece, Princess Mathilde, could fetch up to $18 million when it hits the auction block next month.

Called the “Historic Pink Diamond,” the 8.72-carat stone is VS2 clarity and is a non-modified cushion cut, which is unusual in a pink diamond.

Sotheby’s auction of Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels, scheduled for May 12 in Geneva, also will include the “Sunrise Ruby,” a 25.59-carat pigeon’s blood red Burmese ruby that has not been heated.

Described by the Swiss Gemmological Institute as a “unique treasure of nature,” the ruby is expected to sell for as much as $18 million as well.

In addition to the colored diamonds, the sale also will offer a number of diamond tiaras, some dating back to the 1880s; a rare natural pearl necklace; additional impressive diamonds; and signed pieces by Cartier, Schlumberger and Boucheron, Sotheby’s said.

The sale catalog is available on Sothebys.com.

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