On April 8, 2025, Sotheby’s unveiled the ‘Mediterranean Blue’ diamond, a rare 10.03-carat Fancy Vivid Blue gem, during an exclusive exhibition in Abu Dhabi. This exceptional diamond, valued at approximately $20 million, is set to headline Sotheby’s High Jewelry auction in Geneva on May 13, 2025.
A Gem of Extraordinary Rarity
The ‘Mediterranean Blue’ diamond stands out for its remarkable characteristics. According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), it has achieved the highest color grading for blue diamonds and is classified as Type IIb—a category representing less than 0.5% of all diamonds. Its cushion modified brilliant-cut enhances the gem’s vivid saturation, placing it among the most significant blue diamonds ever discovered.
From South African Origins to Global Acclaim
Discovered in South Africa as a substantial 31.93-carat rough stone, the ‘Mediterranean Blue’ underwent over six months of meticulous cutting and polishing to achieve its current form. This transformation highlights the expertise and dedication involved in revealing the diamond’s true brilliance.
Abu Dhabi Exhibition: A Showcase of Rarity
The unveiling in Abu Dhabi was part of a larger exhibition featuring over $100 million worth of rare diamonds. This marked Sotheby’s first public exhibition in the city since 2009, reflecting the region’s growing significance in the global gem market. Katia Nounou Boueiz, Sotheby’s Deputy Chairman for the Middle East and Head of Sotheby’s UAE, emphasized the importance of hosting such an event in the Gulf region, noting the high interest in rare and valuable diamonds among collectors and traders.
Anticipation Builds for Geneva Auction
Following its Abu Dhabi debut, the ‘Mediterranean Blue’ will tour major cities, including New York and Hong Kong, before culminating in Geneva for the High Jewelry auction. This tour offers collectors and enthusiasts worldwide the opportunity to witness this extraordinary gem firsthand.
A Testament to Timeless Elegance
The ‘Mediterranean Blue’ diamond embodies the allure and mystery that have long captivated gem enthusiasts. Its unveiling not only showcases the gem’s intrinsic beauty but also underscores the meticulous craftsmanship involved in bringing such a rare treasure to light. As it prepares to take center stage at the upcoming Geneva auction, the ‘Mediterranean Blue’ continues to enchant and inspire, symbolizing the enduring fascination with nature’s most exquisite creations.
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