We use cookies to remember choices you make on functionality and personal features to enhance your experience to our site.
By continuing to use our site you consent to the use of cookies. Please refer to our
privacy
and cookie policies for more information.
The step-cut diamond, weighing 24.31 carats, within a four-claw setting, ring size M½
Footnotes
Please note there will be no live bidding available on this lot Accompanied by a report from GIA stating that the diamond is D colour, Internally Flawless clarity. Report number 1196465491, dated 22 June 2018.
Accompanied by a GIA type classification letter stating that the diamond is Type IIa, dated 22 June 2018.
The diamond has been held in high esteem for millennia, admired for its exceptional hardness, liquid transparency and the beauty of its crystal form.
The Rasaratna Samuccaya, a 13th century text on minerals and mining, states that "good diamonds" were supposed to be ujjala (bright), adosa (flawless) and amalavaritara (free from impurities and transparent like water). This diamond, offered at auction for the first time, is just such an extraordinary gem. Weighing 24.31 carats, its weight alone distinguishes it as a truly rare specimen. Awarded D colour and Internally Flawless clarity grades by GIA, the combination of attributes which this stone possesses is exemplary and scarce in nature. A further characteristic which sets it apart is its Type IIa classification.
Type IIa diamonds make up less than 2% of all natural gem-quality diamonds. They are categorised by their chemical composition; unlike the great majority of 'white' diamonds, Type IIa diamonds are composed almost purely of carbon. They are exceptional because they contain very little nitrogen, or none at all, which allows light to pass easily through the stone. The optical effect is a limpid, colourless appearance, of fabulous purity. Many of the most famous diamonds throughout history have been Type IIa, including the famous Koh-i-Noor (Mountain of Light) and the world's largest cut diamond, the Cullinan.
The present lot is exceptional for its elegant cut, crystalline transparency and significant size. Bonhams is delighted to offer such a magnificent diamond for sale.
Saleroom notices
Please note there will be no live bidding available on this lot
This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact customer services.
Buyers' Obligations
ALL BIDDERS MUST AGREE THAT THEY HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD BONHAMS' CONDITIONS OF SALE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM, AND AGREE TO PAY THE BUYER'S PREMIUM AND ANY OTHER CHARGES MENTIONED IN THE NOTICE TO BIDDERS. THIS AFFECTS THE BIDDERS LEGAL RIGHTS.
If you have any complaints or questions about the Conditions of Sale, please contact your nearest customer services team.
Buyers' Premium and Charges
For all Sales categories, buyer's premium excluding Cars, Motorbikes, Wine, Whisky and Coin & Medal sales, will be as follows:
Buyer's Premium Rates 27.5% on the first £10,000 of the hammer price; 25% of the hammer price of amounts in excess of £10,000 up to and including £450,000; 20% of the hammer price of amounts in excess of £450,000 up to and including £4,500,000; and 14.5% of the hammer price of any amounts in excess of £4,500,000.
VAT at the current rate of 20% will be added to the Buyer's Premium and charges excluding Artists Resale Right.
Payment Notices
For payment information please refer to the sale catalog.
Shipping Notices
For information and estimates on domestic and international shipping as well as export licenses please contact Bonhams Shipping Department.
