The “Oppenheimer Blue” diamond was sold for 56.8 million Swiss Francs ($57 million), at Christie’s, in Geneva.
The largest fancy vivid blue diamond ever put up for auction was acquired after 25 minutes of bidding. It is now the most expensive jewel ever sold at auction.
The 14.62-carat “Oppenheimer Blue,” also known as “the gem of gems,” is a rectangular-cut diamond set in a ring and surrounded by two small trapeze-shaped diamonds.
“Oppenheimer Blue” is the largest and highest quality blue diamond in the world. It was once owned by Sir Philip Oppenheimer, a member of the family that, in the past, controlled the De Beers Mining Company.
“The Oppenheimers have been leaders in the diamond industry for generations, and Sir Philip could have had any diamond he wanted. But he chose this one, with its perfect hue, impeccable proportions, and fabulous rectangular shape,” explained François Curiel, chairman of Christie’s Asia Pacific and China.
