The Light of Peace Diamond, formerly known as the Zale Light of Peace Diamond—a 127 ct. pear-cut diamond—is expected to sell for up to $15 million at Christie’s Magnificent Jewels auction, happening June 7 in New York City.
The diamond was originally owned by Zale Corp. of Dallas (which later became Signet-owned Zales) and before the retailer sold it in 1982, the company regularly arranged showings of the diamond; proceeds from ticket sales helping to establish a fund for “peace-supporting missions,” according to Christie’s.
The Light of Peace Diamond was originally cut from a 435 ct. piece of rough. It’s a pear brilliant-cut diamond of 126.76 carats, and will be accompanied by a custom gold and gem-set presentation case. It’s a D-color, type IIa diamond, and internally flawless.
As a nod to its good will-filled past, Christies’s is donating a portion of the proceeds from the Light of Peace Diamond to USA for UNHCR, the United Nations’ Refugee Agency. We hope it nabs top dollar! —Ruby Baybei
Top: The 127 ct. Light of Peace Diamond (courtesy Christie’s)
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