THE FIRST DIAMOND AT AUCTION IS GIVEN A NAME HIGHLIGHTING CHINA
Christie’s announces that “The Star of China” is now the name of the largest and most perfect briolette diamond offered for sale at auction, on top of the other two world record breaking diamonds, The Princie Diamond and The Winston Legacy Diamond, sold at Christie’s in New York and Geneva respectively this season.
Ms. Tiffany Chen, Vice Chairman of China Star Entertainment Limited, is the new owner of the briolette diamond. She names the diamond after her company as “The Star of China”.
“The Star of China”, also known as the top lot sold at Hong Kong Magnificent Jewels sale on 28 May 2013, is a briolette diamond weighing 75.36 carats priced at US$148,000 per carat, achieving a world record HK$86,110,000 / US$11,151,245. While less than one carat in every 100,000 carats of diamond will be found in a perfect condition, this briolette of imposing size is certified by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) to be D colour and type IIa.
About Christie’s
Christie’s, the world’s leading art business, had global auction and private sales in 2012 that totaled £3.92 billion/$6.27 billion. Christie’s is a name and place that speaks of extraordinary art, unparalleled service and expertise, as well as international glamour. Founded in 1766 by James Christie, Christie’s has since conducted the greatest and most celebrated auctions through the centuries providing a popular showcase for the unique and the beautiful. Christie’s offers over 450 auctions annually in over 80 categories, including all areas of fine and decorative arts, jewellery, photographs, collectibles, wine, and more. Prices range from $200 to over $100 million. Christie’s also has a long and successful history conducting private sales for its clients in all categories, with emphasis on Post-War and Contemporary, Impressionist and Modern, Old Masters and Jewellery. Private sales totaled £631.3 million/$1 billion in 2012, an increase of 26% on the same period last year.
Christie’s has a global presence with 53 offices in 32 countries and 10 salerooms around the world including in London, New York, Paris, Geneva, Milan, Amsterdam, Dubai, Zürich, and Hong Kong. More recently, Christie’s has led in growth markets such as Russia, China, India and the Middle East, with successful sales, exhibitions and initiatives in Moscow, Baku, Beijing, Mumbai, Jeddah, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Dubai.
*Estimates do not include buyer’s premium. Sales totals are hammer price plus buyer’s premium and do not reflect costs, financing fees or application of buyer’s or seller’s credits.