It is one of only three oval diamonds of over 50 carats to be put on auction “in living memory”, Sotheby’s had revealed before this remarkable stone went under the hammer. Moreover, the esteemed auction house had deemed it to be a “Masterwork” which, it said, “elevates diamonds to the level of art”.

Now, at Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels and Jadeite sale held in Hong Kong on April 2, 2019, the spectacular stone has surpassed its estimate of between HKD 88,000,000 —  HKD 100,000,000, and has been sold for a whopping HKD 107,993,000 or close to US$ 14,000,000.

“Perfect according to every criteria, the 88.22-carat, D Colour, Flawless, Type IIa, oval brilliant diamond is the highlight of our upcoming sale of Magnificent Jewels and Jadeite (Hong Kong | 2 April),” Sotheby’s had said describing the diamond prior to the auction. “In China and other Asian cultures, the number eight is considered lucky – a symbol of perfection and eternity, associated with prosperity.”

Sotheby’s revealed that the diamond is accompanied by GIA report no. 2195631593, dated December 12, 2018, stating that the 88.22 carat diamond is D Colour, Flawless, with Excellent Polish and Symmetry; further accompanied by diamond type classification report stating that the diamond is determined to be Type IIa diamond.

“Type IIa diamonds are the most chemically pure type of diamond and often have exceptional optical transparency,” Sotheby’s noted. “The GIA report is additionally accompanied by a separate monograph expressing the rarity and the characteristics of the stone, stating 'Though its GIA Grading Report reveals a thorough description of its characteristics, it cannot quite capture its splendor - one must see the gem to comprehend its magnificence. When presented the opportunity to gaze into the stunningly transparent table of the diamond, viewers are likely to be captivated by the pure beauty that lies before them'.”

While it is reported that three clients from the region competed for the stone, it was won by an unnamed Japanese buyer, who, it is learnt, has named the stone Manami Star after his eldest daughter.

"This lucky stone now carries the name of the fortunate child whose father has chosen to give it her name,” Patti Wong, chairman of Sotheby's Asia, is quoted as saying in a media report. “A happy moment in the journey of one of the earth’s greatest, oldest treasures." 

The 88.22 oval polished diamond originated from a 242-carat rough stone that was recovered in the Jwaneng mine in Botswana.

Pic Cap: The 88.22 oval polished diamond

Pic Courtesy: Sotheby’s