Editor’s Note
This article reports on the recent auction of the “Mellon Blue” diamond in Geneva, highlighting its multi-million euro valuation and the involvement of a Chinese collector.
A blue diamond has fetched millions at an auction. The “Mellon Blue” diamond was estimated to be worth up to 25 million euros.
A Chinese diamond collector has made millions at a Christie’s auction in Geneva. However, he received less for his “Mellon Blue” diamond than the auction house had previously estimated. Christie’s had anticipated a price of up to around 25 million euros. The hammer, however, fell at approximately 18.8 million euros.
The diamond, set in an unusual ring, is a brilliant blue, pear-shaped, and weighs 9.51 carats. Additional white diamonds are arranged around the finger like a snake. It was the most expensive item at the jewelry auction. The buyer must still pay a commission of just over 20 percent on the price to the auction house, as well as value-added tax — depending on their place of residence.
Upon inquiry, the auction house revealed that the stone came from Chinese ownership but did not disclose the buyer’s identity. Most collectors wish to remain anonymous. Jewelry expert Max Fawcett commented before the auction that there are particularly many enthusiasts for colored diamonds in the Near and Far East. The stone once belonged to the American art collector and celebrity gardener Rachel Lambert (Bunny) Mellon, who wore it as a pendant.
