Rare 75-Ct. Pear-Shaped Diamond will be the highlight at Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels auction in New York on April 17. Among 400 lots gether estimated in excess of $35 million, this D, VVS1, potentially flawless, type IIa, pear-shaped diamond, stands out not only by rarity but also by expectation to be sell for $9 million to $12 million.
The stone is one of very few white, pear-shaped diamonds of more than 50 carats to be offered in recent decades and was acquired by its current owner in 2001 for $4.3 million.
“The stone has universal appeal and we anticipate that it will draw attention from both the diamond industry and discerning private collectors alike,” said Lisa Hubbard, the chairman of North & South America at Sotheby’s International jewelry division.
She added that the upcoming auction includes a number of fresh-to-the-market pieces, such as rare colored stones from the Gould family and iconic styles including Cartier’s Tutti Frutti bracelet and panther brooch.
Other highlights include six jewels from the family of financier and railroad magnate Jay Gould, such as an platinum emerald and diamond ring estimated at between $750,000 and $1 million.
Highlights from the auction will be displayed in Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Center from April 3 to 7, before returning to New York for exhibition and later for auction.