Photo courtesy Fura Gems
“Estrela de Fura” smashed estimates during its recent appearance at Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels.
The 55.22-carat cushion-cut ruby—the largest of its kind to ever appear at auction—sold for US$34.8 million (approximately C$45.9 million), topping its pre-show estimate of US$30 million (C$40.4 million).
The stone, which was cut from a 101-carat rough recovered in Mozambique by Toronto-based mining group, Fura Gems, was reportedly purchased by a private collector.
First unveiled nine months ago, the rough stone has been lauded for its vivid red hue, fluorescence, and high clarity. It is believed to be the largest gem-quality ruby on record, Fura Gems reports.
“Important gemstones, such as Estrela de Fura, are extremely rare, and a beautifully faceted gem-quality ruby of 55.22 carats is almost unheard of,” says the company’s founder and CEO, Dev Shetty.
Additionally, Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels saw the much-anticipated sale of the fancy purplish-pink diamond, “The Eternal Pink.” The cushion-cut, 10.57-carat stone, which the auction house reports is the most vivid pink diamond to ever come to market, fetched an impressive US$34.8 million (C$45.9 million).
