Fancy colour diamonds in the auction spotlight

The unmounted Yellow Rose, originating from South Africa, hit the block at the Magnificent Jewels sale on 15 May at the Four Seasons Hotel and returned $USD6.7 million ($AUD10.04 million).

The stone was only the third of its colour, weighing more than 200 carats, to appear at auction. More than 95 per cent of the items at the auction were sold, returning $USD54.2 million ($AUD81.20 million).

"The market for colour gemstones and fine jewellery is on fire, and I could not think of a better way to start the 2024 season."

Max Fawcett, Christie’s

“There is nothing better as an auctioneer than a full and engaged saleroom, and to achieve such strong results is remarkable,” said Max Fawcett, head of jewels for Christie’s.

“The market for colour gemstones and fine jewellery is on fire, and I could not think of a better way to start the 2024 season.”

Another star of the show was a 25.20-carat pink sapphire, which tripled its presale estimate and collected $USD1.5 million ($USD2.25 million).

Pink diamond delight

At another auction in Geneva, a pink diamond was sold for $USD12 million ($AUD17.98 million).

The 6.21-carat fancy vivid pink type IIa diamond ring was the headline act of the 13 May Geneva Jewels Auction.

The Argyle Phoenix, a 1.56-carat  fancy red diamond ring, also impressed buyers, returning close to triple its high estimate at $USD4.2 million ($AUD6.29 million).

“We are thrilled with the result achieved today, building on the success of Phillips’s first jewels sale in Geneva last November,” said Benoit Repellin, worldwide head of jewellery.

“The auction showcased outstanding pieces, notably the exceptional fancy vivid pink diamond ring marking it the star lot of the season across Geneva auction houses.”

The auction returned $USD26.1 million ($AUD39.10 million), with 74 per cent of items finding new homes.

auction highlights

The Yellow Rose 202.18-carat fancy intense yellow diamond	Pink Diamond 6.21-carat fancy vivid pink diamond
Sapphire 25.20-carat pink sapphire	The Argyle Phoenix 1.56-carat fancy red diamond

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