An ultra-rare diamond worth an estimated $20 million is set to make its debut in Abu Dhabi. Known as “The Mediterranean Blue,” this stunning 10.03-carat gem is part of a global tour that includes stops in cities such as Taipei, Hong Kong, and New York before it is auctioned by Sotheby’s in Geneva on May 13. This unique jewel is capturing the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike, emphasizing the growing allure of high-value gemstones in the Middle East.
The Mediterranean Blue Diamond in Abu Dhabi
This extraordinary diamond boasts the highest possible color grading for a blue diamond from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Classified as Type IIb, it represents a rare find, as less than 0.5 percent of all diamonds fall into this category. As the first stop on its world tour, Abu Dhabi will host the diamond at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation in the Saadiyat Island Cultural District, where it will be displayed for the first time ever on April 8.
A Collectible of Remarkable Quality
Quig Bruning, Sotheby’s head of jewellery for the Americas and EMEA, noted the exceptional nature of this gemstone, stating, “The Mediterranean Blue represents one of nature’s rarest gems. Any vivid blue diamond is a discovery worth celebrating, but one as entrancing as this, particularly being over 10 carats, is a newsworthy event.” The Mediterranean Blue’s charming cushion cut and captivating ocean-blue hue position it among the most significant blue diamonds introduced to the market in recent years.
A Legacy of Luxury from the Cullinan Mine
The Mediterranean Blue was meticulously cut from a larger 31.94-carat diamond found in South Africa’s famed Cullinan mine in 2023. This mine has a storied history of producing exceptional diamonds, including notable stones like:
- The Blue Moon of Josephine, a 12.03-carat Fancy Vivid Blue diamond that fetched $48.5 million at a Sotheby’s auction in 2015.
- The De Beers Blue, a 15.10-carat step-cut Fancy Vivid Blue diamond that sold for $57.5 million in 2022.
The appearance of the Mediterranean Blue in Abu Dhabi is not just a display of wealth; it symbolizes the deepening fascination with exquisite natural treasures. With the auction date approaching, gemstone enthusiasts and collectors are eagerly anticipating this rare opportunity to view one of the world’s most remarkable diamonds.