 Even with the current worldwide financial crisis, famed auction house Christie’s still has faith in the value of a diamond. At the Christie’s Jewel sale in New York on April 22, they will be auctioning a number of luxury diamond items, some estimated at over $1 million. In addition to the diamond items, there will be colored gems and signed jewels including antique, Belle Epoch, art nouveau, retro and contemporary pieces. The most valuable diamond in the lot is a pear-shaped diamond ring with a weight of 30.02 carats, D color and Internally Flawless clarity, and set in a deep pink diamond band. Christie’s did not publish an estimated value for the diamond, but one is available on request. Other highlights of the sale include a rectangular-cut diamond ring of 32.72 carats, D color with very slight inclusions (VS1 clarity) estimated at $1.4-$1.8 million; and a pear-shaped diamond of 15.05 carats, D color with very, very slight inclusions (VVC2 clarity) by Harry Winston, estimated at $700,000-$1 million. Colored diamonds, which have fluctuated in and out of style over the past few years, will also be shown. There is a gray/yellow/green “chameleon” briolette-cut diamond pendant necklace of 19.13 carats with an estimated value of $800,000-$1 million. This diamond changes color when it is gently heated or when left in darkness for a period of time. Because of this unusual characteristic, it is called a “chameleon” diamond. The one up for auction on April 22 is the largest to ever be offered. Among the signed and vintage jewels is an antique ivory and gemstone elephant, carved from a single piece of ivory. Made around 1900, it has chrysoberyl bejeweled eyes, pearl tassels and golden toenails, and comes in a purple velvet carrying case. It is assumed that this piece was made for a member of a very important Indian family, and will probably sell for $80,000 to $120,000. Counting on the unfaltering value of diamonds and their place as investments, Christie’s believes strongly that these expensive, unique pieces will sell quickly. The auction will certainly bring out a who’s-who in New York City, and from around the world.
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