Pink diamonds are some of the rarest and most sought-after gemstones in the world. Their vibrant color and exceptional beauty make them highly coveted by collectors and consumers alike. In this article, we will take a closer look at the famous pink diamond known as the Pink Star, and explore its fascinating history and significance.
The Pink Star is a 59.60-carat oval-shaped diamond that is known for its exceptional size and color. It was mined in 1999 by De Beers in South Africa and weighed 132.5 carats in its rough state. It took a team of expert cutters two years to transform it into its current size and shape, making it one of the largest pink diamonds ever discovered.
The Pink Star’s exquisite color is what sets it apart from other diamonds. Its unique pink hue is caused by a structural defect in its atomic lattice, which allows for more light to pass through and creates an intense pink color. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has certified the Pink Star as a type IIa diamond, which is the purest form of diamond with exceptional optical properties.
The diamond has had several owners since its discovery, but one name stands out in its history – the Steinmetz Group. This renowned diamond company acquired the Pink Star in 2003 and spent two years cutting and polishing it to perfection, resulting in an internally flawless diamond with a fancy vivid pink color grade, the highest possible grade for a colored diamond.
In 2013, the Pink Star made its first public appearance at a Sotheby’s auction in Geneva. It was estimated to sell for $60 million, making it the most expensive diamond ever sold at an auction. However, the auction was cancelled when the buyer defaulted on the payment. In 2017, the diamond was put up for auction again and was sold for a record-breaking $71.2 million, making it the most expensive diamond ever sold at auction.
The Pink Star’s current owner is a jewelry company called Chow Tai Fook, who renamed the diamond “CTF Pink Star” in recognition of their purchase. The diamond is displayed at the company’s jewelry stores in Hong Kong, Macau, and mainland China, giving people the rare opportunity to see this magnificent gem in person.
The Pink Star’s sale not only made headlines but also brought attention to the growing demand and value of pink diamonds. These gemstones have always been associated with rarity and luxury, but their prices have soared in recent years due to their limited supply and growing demand from collectors and investors. It’s no surprise that the Pink Star has become a symbol of prestige and wealth.
In conclusion, the Pink Star is not just a beautiful diamond, but a symbol of rarity, luxury, and value. Its story is a testament to the enduring allure of pink diamonds and their enduring appeal. As the demand for these rare gemstones continues to grow, we can only imagine what records and headlines future pink diamonds will make.