6.03-ct Fancy Vivid Blue Fails to Find Buyer
May 12, 26
(IDEX Online) - An internally flawless, 6.03-carat fancy vivid blue diamond with a high estimate of CHF 9.6 million ($12.3 million) failed to find a buyer at Sotheby's Geneva yesterday (12 May)
The cushion-modified brilliant Type IIb gem, from South Africa's Cullinan mine, set in a platinum ring, was the highlight of the High Jewelry auction on 12 May.
The fact that it didn't reach the seller's reserve suggests buyers are being more cautious about the very top end of the price spectrum, especially in a market where overall fancy‑color prices are flattish or slightly down.
The Fancy Color Research Foundation (FCRF) said the stone displayed a strong inner-grade and gave it a total visual score 11 out of 12.
"A large colorless patch is visible on one side beneath the table, indicating an asymmetrical facet alignment, likely a concession made to preserve the 6 carat weight mark," it noted.
Overall, blue diamonds have lost 0.5% of their value over the last 12 months, according to the latest FCRF data, reflecting a relatively moderate level of movement compared to other segments of the market.