Sotheby’s multinational company on 17 October declared that it will auction off a 303.10 carats yellow diamond, the Golden Canary. The Fancy Deep Brownish-Yellow Diamond is one of the largest polished diamonds in the world and the largest flawless one ever graded by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
The miraculous diamond formerly weighed just over 407 carats, which earned it the “Incomparable Diamond” name. Recut from its original shield-shape into a classic pear-shape, the Golden Canary is now deeper in colour, brighter in hue and more elegant in profile, rightfully claiming its spot in the pantheon of exceptional diamonds.
The Golden Canary is set to highlight Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels auction in New York on 7 December 2022, with an estimate in the region of $15 million, and offered without reserve, with bidding starting at just $1.
«We have had an exceptional year of presenting extraordinary coloured diamonds at our global jewellery auctions – said Quig Bruning, Head of Jewelry for Sotheby’s America’s – Just two weeks after the record-breaking sale of the Williamson Pink Star for $57.7 million, we are honoured to offer the largest polished diamond in present existence to appear at auction. Steeped in history, the Golden Canary is one of the most exquisite diamonds to ever be discovered, not only for its sheer size and intensity in colour, but for its stunning beauty that is sure to captivate collectors around the world. Sotheby’s is privileged to help write the next chapter for this incomparable, reborn gem».
Given the global interest in a treasure of this nature, the diamond will be showcased on a worldwide tour. Unveiled in Sotheby’s galleries in Dubai, it will then travel to cities including Taipei, Geneva, and Hong Kong. Katia Nounou Boueiz, Head of Sotheby’s UAE: «We are excited to continue to celebrate the UAE as the ultimate destination for lovers of luxury, with the global unveiling of a gemstone of such extraordinary calibre alongside a selling exhibition curated by our team here on the ground».
Alongside the global unveiling of the Golden Canary, Sotheby’s Dubai has also launched a selling exhibition displaying an edit of rare luxury items. Open to the public through 4 November, the selling exhibition includes an outstanding selection of hand-embellished Hermès Birkin and Kelly handbags lovingly transformed by luxury brand Jay Ahr. It is the first time the collection is showcased in the Middle East.
Lebanese Jewellery designer Gaelle Khouri brings her new collection to the exhibition, a series of either graphic or sensual pieces in yellow, white, or rose gold often enhanced by diamonds and precious stones. Additional items within the exhibition include striking contemporary photography by Morocco-born artist Lalla Essaydi, best known for her depiction of Arab female identity.
