World's biggest flawless diamond sells for USD 24 million

The world's largest flawless vivid blue diamond sold for USD 23.79 million at Christie's auction, which realised a total of USD 154.19 million, the highest total ever for a jewellery sale, auctioneers said today.

The 13.22 carat diamond was purchased by Nayla Hayek, CEO of US watch and jewellery major Harry Winston from an anonymous bidder in intense bidding yesterday, Christie's said.

"In January 2013 we purchased Harry Winston and since then my ambition has been to acquire the most desirable and unique gems...Today, I am proud to own the most beautiful blue diamond in the world," Hayek was quoted in a statement.

The Swiss based Swatch group had acquired the Winston group in July last year. The pear shaped diamond has now been rechristened "The Winston Blue".
The "Magnificent Jewels" auction also achieved four world prices, realising sales of 85 per cent by lot and 94 per cent by value.

"The Cartier Devant de Corsage Brooch realised staggering USD 17.5 million a 660 per cent increase having first sold for USD 2.65 million at Christie's Geneva sale back in 1991," Rahul Kadakia, International Head, Christie's Jewellery Department said.

Auction records were set for a 76.51 carat light pink diamond which sold for USD 10 million, a 5.50 carat blue-green diamond that fetched USD 8.6 million, a 21.41 carat Russian Alexandrite which sold for USD 1.3 million and a 49.04 carat pink sapphire that went under the hammer for USD 2 million.

'Passion for Jewels: The Collection of a European Gentleman' achieved USD 32,015,289 and was comprised of 14 magnificent jewels including the 'Rajah Diamond' a 26.14 carat old-mine brilliant-cut diamond which fetched auctioneers over USD 4 million.

Meanwhile, a 17th century seven Mughal spinel bead necklace engraved with the names of Mughal emperors Akbar and Jahangir realised USD 1.8 million in the same sale.